Numbers 33:37 recounts a specific stop in the Israelites' journey during the Exodus from Egypt to the Promised Land. Let's break it down:
"They traveled from Kadesh..." This refers to Kadesh-Barnea, a significant oasis and settlement where the Israelites had spent considerable time. It was a place of both hope (being close to Canaan) and disappointment (due to their failed attempt to enter the land after the spies' negative report). Leaving Kadesh signifies a shift and continuation of their wandering.
"...and encamped in Mount Hor..." Mount Hor is a mountain located near the border of Edom. "Encamped" means they set up camp there; they stopped and settled, at least temporarily.
"...in the edge of the land of Edom." Edom was the land inhabited by the descendants of Esau (Jacob's brother). It was located east of the Arabah Valley, which borders the southern Dead Sea. Being on the "edge" of Edom suggests proximity and potentially interaction with the Edomites.
Significance and Implications:
Continuing the Journey: This verse reinforces that the Israelites' journey was ongoing, even though it was taking much longer than initially anticipated. They were still moving towards their ultimate destination, despite the difficulties and setbacks.
Geographical Marker: It provides a specific geographical location, helping to trace the route of the Exodus. Mount Hor is a landmark that helps contextualize their movements.
Tension with Edom: Being on the border of Edom suggests potential diplomatic or even conflict-related issues. The Israelites needed to navigate their relationship with neighboring nations as they traveled. The book of Numbers (especially Numbers 20:14-21) later elaborates on the tense relationship with Edom, describing how the Edomites refused the Israelites passage through their territory.
Transitional Phase: This verse might mark a transitional phase in their journey. Kadesh was a place of decision and failure. Moving on to Mount Hor could symbolize a new beginning, albeit still within the context of their wandering. It also foreshadows the death of Aaron the high priest, which occurs in Numbers 20:22-29 at Mount Hor.
In summary, Numbers 33:37 is a concise statement marking a specific location in the Israelites' long and arduous journey, reminding us of their continued progress, geographical context, and the potential challenges posed by neighboring nations. It also sets the stage for important events that will occur at Mount Hor.
Numbers 33:37 recounts a specific stop in the Israelites' journey during the Exodus from Egypt to the Promised Land. Let's break it down:
"They traveled from Kadesh..." This refers to Kadesh-Barnea, a significant oasis and settlement where the Israelites had spent considerable time. It was a place of both hope (being close to Canaan) and disappointment (due to their failed attempt to enter the land after the spies' negative report). Leaving Kadesh signifies a shift and continuation of their wandering.
"...and encamped in Mount Hor..." Mount Hor is a mountain located near the border of Edom. "Encamped" means they set up camp there; they stopped and settled, at least temporarily.
"...in the edge of the land of Edom." Edom was the land inhabited by the descendants of Esau (Jacob's brother). It was located east of the Arabah Valley, which borders the southern Dead Sea. Being on the "edge" of Edom suggests proximity and potentially interaction with the Edomites.
Significance and Implications:
Continuing the Journey: This verse reinforces that the Israelites' journey was ongoing, even though it was taking much longer than initially anticipated. They were still moving towards their ultimate destination, despite the difficulties and setbacks.
Geographical Marker: It provides a specific geographical location, helping to trace the route of the Exodus. Mount Hor is a landmark that helps contextualize their movements.
Tension with Edom: Being on the border of Edom suggests potential diplomatic or even conflict-related issues. The Israelites needed to navigate their relationship with neighboring nations as they traveled. The book of Numbers (especially Numbers 20:14-21) later elaborates on the tense relationship with Edom, describing how the Edomites refused the Israelites passage through their territory.
Transitional Phase: This verse might mark a transitional phase in their journey. Kadesh was a place of decision and failure. Moving on to Mount Hor could symbolize a new beginning, albeit still within the context of their wandering. It also foreshadows the death of Aaron the high priest, which occurs in Numbers 20:22-29 at Mount Hor.
In summary, Numbers 33:37 is a concise statement marking a specific location in the Israelites' long and arduous journey, reminding us of their continued progress, geographical context, and the potential challenges posed by neighboring nations. It also sets the stage for important events that will occur at Mount Hor.