We have come to final stage of the wilderness journey and as we pass through the last of the camps on our way to the promised land, we continue to see the Lords hand in reaffirming the lessons His children were to learn. This recorded journey is also our life journey, and one thing is clear there is no physical solution to a spiritual problem. The natural can only be turned into the spiritual through sacrifice. Without this a person will lead a divided life because our Heavenly Father’s will is for the natural to be changed into the spiritual through obedience. Hebrews 5:8 Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. Sin is what made it necessary for the natural to be sacrificed. God’s perfect will is not sacrifice yet He permits it. Abraham offered up Ishmael, son of the flesh, before he offered up Isaac, the son of the spirit. Genesis. 21:8-14.
Some of us are trying to offer up spiritual sacrifices to the Father before we have sacrificed the natural. The only way we can offer a spiritual sacrifice to God is to present our bodies a living sacrifice. Rom. 12:1. Sanctification means more than being freed from sin, it means the deliberate commitment of ourselves to the God of our salvation and being willing to pay whatever it may cost. If we don’t sacrifice the natural to the spiritual, the natural life will resist and defy the life of the Son of God in us and will produce continual turmoil. This is always the result of an undisciplined spiritual nature. We go wrong when we stubbornly refuse to discipline ourselves physically, morally or mentally. Excusing ourselves with statements like, I wasn’t taught or disciplined as a child. Then we need to learn and to discipline ourselves now. If we don’t we will ruin our entire personal life for the Lord God.
What are we learning from this desert wilderness?
One thing is certain, as long as we continue to pamper and gratify our natural life, God is not actively involved with it. BUT… once we are willing to put our natural life out in the desert wilderness and are determined to keep it under control of our spirit, God will be with us 100%. He will then provide spiritual and natural wells and oases and fulfill all His promises for both. Genesis. 21:15-19.
41So they departed from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah. 42They departed from Zalmonah and camped at Punon. 43They departed from Punon and camped at Oboth. 44They departed from Oboth and camped at Ije Abarim, at the border of Moab. 45They departed from [c]Ijim and camped at Dibon Gad. 46They moved from Dibon Gad and camped at Almon Diblathaim. 47They moved from Almon Diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo. 48They departed from the mountains of Abarim and camped in the plains of Moab by the Jordan, across from Jericho. 49They camped by the Jordan, from Beth Jesimoth as far as the Abel Acacia Grove[d] in the plains of Moab.
Numbers 33:38
HEB: הַכֹּהֵ֜ן אֶל־ הֹ֥ר הָהָ֛ר עַל־
NAS: up to Mount Hor at the command
KJV: into mount Hor at the commandment
INT: the priest about Hor to Mount at
Numbers 33:39
HEB: שָׁנָ֑ה בְּמֹת֖וֹ בְּהֹ֥ר הָהָֽר׃ ס
NAS: when he died on Mount Hor.
KJV: when he died in mount Hor.
INT: years died Hor Mount
Numbers 33:41
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵהֹ֣ר הָהָ֑ר וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ
NAS: from Mount Hor and camped
KJV: from mount Hor, and pitched
INT: journeyed Hor Mount and camped
Numbers 34:7
HEB: תְּתָא֥וּ לָכֶ֖ם הֹ֥ר הָהָֽר׃
NAS: Sea to Mount Hor.
KJV: ye shall point out for you mount Hor:
INT: the Great shall draw Hor to Mount
Numbers 34:8
HEB: מֵהֹ֣ר הָהָ֔ר תְּתָא֖וּ
NAS: from Mount Hor to the Lebo-hamath,
KJV: From mount Hor ye shall point out
INT: Hor Mount shall draw
38Then Aaron the priest went up to Mount Hor at the command of the Lord, and died there in the fortieth year after the children of Israel had come out of the land of Egypt, on the first day of the fifth month. 39 Aaron was one hundred and twenty-three years old when he died on Mount Hor. 40 Now the king of Arad, the Canaanite, who dwelt in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel. 41So they departed from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah.
Numbers 33:41
HEB: הָהָ֑ר וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּצַלְמֹנָֽה׃
NAS: Hor and camped at Zalmonah.
KJV: Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah.
INT: Mount and camped Zalmonah
6758 [e]
bə·ṣal·mō·nāh.
בְּצַלְמֹנָֽה׃
at Zalmonah
Tsalmonah: Tsalmonah
Original Word: צַלְמֹנָה
Transliteration: Tsalmonah
Pronunciation: tsal-mo-NAH
Phonetic Spelling: (tsal-mo-naw’)
Meaning: Tsalmonah is derived from the Hebrew root
צֶלֶם (tselem),
meaning shadow or image or shade of death.
The name likely means “shady” or “shadowy,” possibly referring to the physical characteristics of the location, maybe trees or shade from a high sided mountain. Remembering that in the Hebrew culture names were significant, describing the characteristics of a place or person; and often prophetic in nature being connected to the individuals future and destiny in Gods plans and purposes.
There are no direct Greek equivalents for Tsalmonah, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, the concept of “shadow” or “image” can be related to Greek words like σκιά (skia) for “shadow.”
Psalm 23 encourages us that though
we walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
He is with us and its important to note that we walk through,
we don’t stay there, and death does not touch us because
its only a shadow.
Tsalmonah is part of the itinerary of the Israelites as they wandered in the desert for 40 years. It was their time of testing, reliance on God, and preparation before entering the Promised Land. The specific location of Tsalmonah is not definitively known today, but it is traditionally considered to be in the region of the Sinai Peninsula.
42They departed from Zalmonah and camped at Punon.
Numbers 33:42
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מִצַּלְמֹנָ֑ה וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּפוּנֹֽן׃
NAS: They journeyed from Zalmonah and camped
KJV: And they departed from Zalmonah,and pitched
INT: journeyed Zalmonah and camped Punon
Numbers 33:42
HEB: מִצַּלְמֹנָ֑ה וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּפוּנֹֽן׃
NAS: from Zalmonah and camped at Punon.
KJV: from Zalmonah, and pitched in Punon.
INT: Zalmonah and camped Punon
6325 [e]
bə·p̄ū·nōn.
בְּפוּנֹֽן׃
at Punon
Punon: Punon
Original Word: פּוּנֹן
Transliteration: Punon
Pronunciation: poo-NON
Phonetic Spelling: (poo-none’)
Meaning: Perplexity, which is derived from an unused root meaning: to be perplexed or to be dark.
There are no direct Greek equivalents for Punon, as it is a specific place name in the Hebrew Bible. Punon is believed to have been located in the region of Edom, which is southeast of the Dead Sea. The area was known for its copper mines, and it is possible that Punon was a site of mining activity during biblical times. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, inhabited this region, and it played a significant role in the history of Israel due to its strategic location and resources.
The name may indicate the feelings of the Israelites at this stage in their journey; possibly emotionally perplexed and the darkness of negativity about their situation may have been trying to torment their minds. The journey had been long and arduous, testing everything in them, and although they were on the last stages of their journey to the promised land; doubts and fears always rise, trying to cause us to stumble right before our patient faith sees the reality of its trust in the natural.
The same is true for us today, when we have been believing for a certain outcome and waiting for what seems a lifetime for the answers to our prayers. The enemy will whisper doubts and accusations, hoping to cause our faith to waver and maybe tempt us to operate out of the arm of the flesh to fulfill that need. Here is where we are to let perseverance/patience have her perfect work by enduring trials, turning to God for strength and hope during painful times.
James 1:4 let patience have its perfect work, so that they may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.
Our Heavenly Fathers’ ways are always, without exception, better than anything we can come up with. Sometimes we are our own worst enemy, seeing how we can facilitate the answer in a more timely manner to our agenda; and with that we compromise to keep it and sadly we will eventually lose it. Our capable and independent actions subvert the plan of our Father and the lack of patience to undergird our faith leads to disobedience which in turn is sin – James 1:15, Romans 6:23 – and sin brings forth death. Maybe not right away, which leads us to think its ok as we see no immediate consequences; however spiritual laws are unchangeable and are no respecter of persons, and the end is always the same. What we choose to think or believe will not change the truth of Gods’ Word.
43They departed from Punon and camped at Oboth.
Numbers 33:43
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מִפּוּנֹ֑ן וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּאֹבֹֽת׃
NAS: They journeyed from Punon and camped
KJV: And they departed from Punon, and pitched
INT: journeyed Punon and camped Oboth
Numbers 33:43
HEB: מִפּוּנֹ֑ן וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּאֹבֹֽת׃
NAS: from Punon and camped at Oboth.
KJV: from Punon, and pitched in Oboth.
INT: Punon and camped Oboth
88 [e]
bə·’ō·ḇōṯ.
בְּאֹבֹֽת׃
at Oboth
Oboth: Oboth
Original Word: אֹבֹת
Part of Speech: Proper Name Location
Transliteration: Oboth
Pronunciation: oh-BOHTH
Phonetic Spelling: (o-both’)
Definition: Oboth
Meaning: plural of #178 water skins and is derived from the Hebrew root
אֹב (ob),
meaning “a wineskin” or “a necromancer’s spirit.”
There are no direct Greek equivalents for Oboth in the Strong’s Greek Dictionary, as it is a specific Hebrew place name it primarily serves as a geographical marker. The name itself may suggest a connection to the practices of necromancy or the presence of spirits.
Necromancy is the practice of communicating with the dead, the conjuring of the spirits of the dead for magical purposes which is forbidden by God.
A wineskin is a container and was made from goat or sheep hide/skin. The simile to a necromancer, whose skin/body/container is used by a demonic spirit, in the process of communication is suggested here.
Lev. 19:31 “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them:
Deut. 18:9-12.
Is. 8:19 And when they say to you, “Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers who chirp and mutter,” should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?
1John 1:4 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.
Rev. 21:8 But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”
1Sam. 28:7-19 was the account of Saul seeking the prophet Samuel through a medium it also has severe consequences. In 1 Chronicles 10:13-14, Saul died because he consulted a medium, and this passage also emphasizes the sinfulness of this practice. As a sin it’s punishable by God’s judgment.
Lev. 20:27 “A man or a woman who is a medium or a necromancer shall surely be put to death. They shall be stoned with stones; their blood shall be upon them.”
We are to talk only to our Heavenly Father in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua. His Spirit of Holiness is the only supernatural communication we are to seek.
The location of Oboth is not precisely known today, but it is believed to have been situated in the region east of the Jordan River, possibly in the territory of Edom.
44They departed from Oboth and camped at Ije Abarim, at the border of Moab.
Numbers 33:44
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵאֹבֹ֑ת וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּעִיֵּ֥י
NAS: They journeyed from Oboth and camped
KJV: And they departed from Oboth, and pitched
INT: journeyed Oboth and camped Iye-abarim
Numbers 33:44
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּעִיֵּ֥י הָעֲבָרִ֖ים בִּגְב֥וּל מוֹאָֽב׃
NAS: and camped at Iye-abarim, at the border
KJV: and pitched in Ijeabarim, in the border
INT: Oboth and camped Iye-abarim the border of Moab
5863 [e]
hā·‘ă·ḇā·rîm
הָעֲבָרִ֖ים
Ije Abarim
Iyye Haabarim: Iyye Haabarim
Original Word: עִיֵּי הָעֲבָרִים
Transliteration: Iyye Haabarim
Pronunciation: ee-YAY hah-ah-vah-REEM
Phonetic Spelling: (ee-yay’ haw-ab-aw-reem’)
Meaning: Ije-ha-Abarim and is derived from the Hebrew root:
עִי (iy), meaning: “ruins” or “heaps,”
and עָבַר (abar), meaning: “to pass over” or “to cross.”
Plural of #5753 ruins of the passes a place near /Israel.
There is no direct Greek equivalent for Iyye Haabarim, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, related concepts of “crossing” or “passing over”
might be linked to Greek words like
διαβαίνω (diabaino), meaning “to cross over.”
Iyye Haabarim translates to “Ruins of the Passers” or “Heaps of the Crossings.” Iyye Haabarim is located in the region east of the Jordan River, near the border of Moab. The name reflects the transient nature of the Israelites’ journey, as they were often moving from one encampment to another. This location is significant as it marks a stage in the Israelites’ approach to the land of Canaan. It may refer to the things we leave behind when we move from one location to another. There may be items we discard or no longer need on our journey. It is critical when we move forward that we understand that how we leave one place is how we enter the next. We will take with us the same attitude that we departed the previous place with. Leaving often brings feelings of uncertainty, sadness, or anticipation, but Scripture offers comfort and guidance during these times of transition.
The act of leaving behind something familiar, or letting go, can be both liberating and daunting. The Bible acknowledges the significance of leaving and provides guidance for this, just as Abraham did by leaving his familiar surroundings and obeying God’s call. It teaches us the importance of being willing to leave behind our comfort zones and follow God’s leading, even if it means leaving behind our family and friends. Sometimes He may call us to leave behind our careers, occupations or lifestyles to fulfill His purposes.
Ruth’s declaration to her mother-in-law Naomi points clearly to her loyalty and commitment to leaving behind her Moabite heritage and embracing the God of Israel. This verse reminds us that leaving can also mean leaving behind our past beliefs and practices and embracing a new way of life and a relationship with God.
Ruth 1:6 But Ruth replied, Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Her obedience resulted in that she became the great–grandmother of David. She is one of five women mentioned in the genealogy of Messiah found in the Gospel of Matthew 1:5.
Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”
Messiahs’ invitation to His disciples highlights the idea of leaving behind their former occupations as fishermen to become fishers of people. It reminds us that following Yeshua/Jesus requires a willingness to leave behind our old way of life and priorities and embrace a new purpose of serving and sharing the Gospel with others. It also underscores the need to leave behind the attachment to worldly possessions and prioritizing them above the call to follow Messiah. It challenges us to examine our hearts and consider what we may need to leave behind in order to fully follow Him.
Is. 43 :198-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
In these verses, God calls His people to let go of the past and embrace the new things He is doing. It reminds us that leaving can involve leaving behind old mindsets, grievances, and disappointments, allowing God to bring forth transformation and a fresh start in our lives. There are various instances in the scriptures where leaving is discussed. Leaving can refer to physical departure from a place or situation, or it can also have a broader meaning of moving away from certain behaviors, mindsets, or influences.
In our leaving we should not leave behind piles of negative debris in the form of complaints, regrets, blame and fears; but one of love, peace, joy, hope and expectation of the future. Then as we enter the new with that same attitude and spirit of life, the law of the spirit of life will make us free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2.
45They departed from [c]Ijim and camped at Dibon Gad.
Numbers 33:45
HEB: מֵעִיִּ֑ים וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּדִיבֹ֥ן גָּֽד׃
NAS: from Iyim and camped at Dibon-gad.
KJV: from Iim, and pitchedin Dibongad.
INT: Iyim and camped Dibongad Gad
1769 [e]
bə·ḏî·ḇōn
בְּדִיבֹ֥ן
at Dibon
1410 [e]
gāḏ.
גָּֽד׃
Gad
Dibon: Dibon
Original Word: דִּיבוֹן
Transliteration: Dibon
Pronunciation: dee-BONE
Phonetic Spelling: (dee-bome’)
Meaning: Dibon and is derived from the root:
דּוּב (dûb), meaning to pine away or to languish.
From # 1727: pining, mope, sorrow; name of 3 places.
There is no direct Greek equivalent for Dibon in the Strong’s Greek Dictionary, as it is a proper noun specific to the Hebrew context. Dibon was an ancient city located east of the Jordan River, primarily associated with the territory of Moab. It is often referred to as “Dibon of Moab” to distinguish it from other locations. The name may imply a place of languishing or pining, possibly reflecting its historical or geographical characteristics. It was a significant city during biblical times, often mentioned in the context of Israel’s interactions with the Moabites. It was where Ruth came from.
The city is notable for the Mesha Stele, an ancient Moabite stone inscription that provides valuable historical insights into the region and its conflicts with Israel.
Dibon was initially assigned to
the tribe of Gad but later became a Moabite stronghold.
Numbers 33:46
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מִדִּיבֹ֣ן גָּ֑ד וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ
NAS: They journeyed from Dibon-gad and camped
KJV: And they removed from Dibongad,and encamped
INT: journeyed Dibongad Gad and camped
46They moved from Dibon Gad and camped at Almon Diblathaim.
Numbers 33:46
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּעַלְמֹ֥ן דִּבְלָתָֽיְמָה׃
NAS: and camped at Almon-diblathaim.
KJV: and encamped in Almondiblathaim.
INT: Gad and camped Almon-diblathaim
5963 [e]
diḇ·lā·ṯā·yə·māh.
דִּבְלָתָֽיְמָה׃
Almon Diblathaim
Almon Diblathayemah: Almon Diblathaim
Original Word: עַלְמֹן דִּבְלָתָיְמָה
Transliteration: Almon Diblathayemah
Pronunciation: al-MONE dib-lah-thah-YE-mah
Phonetic Spelling: (al-mone’ dib-law-thaw’-yem-aw)
Definition: Almon Diblathaim
Meaning: Almon-Diblathajemah Derived from two Hebrew words:
עַלְמֹן (Almon) meaning hidden or concealed
and
דִּבְלָתָיְמָה (Diblathayemah)
which is related to דִּבְלָה (diblah),
meaning: fig cake or fig grove – Almon of the double cake of figs.
Same as #5960 and dual of #1690 toward Diblathajim, a place in the desert from #5963 hidden and #5960 and to press together as a cake of figs. #1690
There are no direct Greek equivalents for Almon Diblathayemah, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, the concept of wilderness journeys and encampments can be related to Greek terms used in the New Testament for wilderness or desert, such as ἔρημος (erēmos).
The name suggests a location that might have been
known for its fig production
or
a place that was hidden or concealed.
The name reflects the agricultural practices of the time, where figs were a common and valuable food source. The wilderness journey was a formative period for the Israelites, shaping their identity as God’s chosen people and teaching them reliance on divine provision.
47They moved from Almon Diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo.
Numbers 33:47
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּהָרֵ֥י הָעֲבָרִ֖ים לִפְנֵ֥י נְבֽוֹ׃
NAS: in the mountains of Abarim, before
KJV: in the mountains of Abarim, before
INT: and camped the mountains of Abarim before Nebo
Numbers 33:47
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵעַלְמֹ֣ן דִּבְלָתָ֑יְמָה וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּהָרֵ֥י
NAS: They journeyed from Almon-diblathaim and camped
KJV: And they removed from Almondiblathaim, and pitched
INT: journeyed Almon-diblathaim and camped the mountains
5682 [e]
hā·‘ă·ḇā·rîm
הָעֲבָרִ֖ים
of Abarim
Abarim: Abarim
Original Word: עֲבָרִים
Transliteration: Abarim
Pronunciation: ah-vah-REEM
Phonetic Spelling: (ab-aw-reem’)
Meaning: Abarim, derived from the Hebrew root
עָבַר (avar), meaning:
to pass over or to cross.
There is no direct Greek equivalent for Abarim, as it is a specific Hebrew geographical term. However, the concept of crossing or transition can be related to Greek terms like
διαβαίνω (diabaino – G1224), meaning “to cross over.“
Abarim refers to a mountain range or region located east of the Jordan River. The name suggests a place of crossing or transition, fitting its role as a boundary before entering Canaan.
The Abarim mountains hold significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. They are mentioned in the context of the Israelites’ wilderness wanderings and are notably the location where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. Moses disobedience to a direct instruction from the Lord cost him his desire to enter the promised land; a timely reminder to all of us to: shema – hear and obey, when our Heavenly Father asks us to do something.
The range includes Mount Nebo, from which Moses saw the land of Canaan. Deuteronomy 32:49-50.
5015 [e]
nə·ḇōw.
נְבֽוֹ׃
Nebo
Nbow: Nebo
Original Word: נָבוֹ
Transliteration: Nbow
Pronunciation: naw-voh’
Phonetic Spelling: (neb-o’)
Meaning: Nebo, derived from the root:
נָבָא (naba), meaning:
to prophesy or to speak by divine inspiration.
While there is no direct Greek equivalent for the proper noun Nebo, the concept of prophecy and divine communication can be linked to Greek terms such as
προφήτης (prophētēs – Strong’s Greek 4396), meaning “prophet.”
Nebo is a name used in the Hebrew Bible, primarily referring to a location and a deity. It is most commonly associated with Mount Nebo, a significant mountain in the biblical narrative, and with a Babylonian deity of wisdom and writing.
Mount Nebo is a prominent mountain peak in the Abarim range, located in present-day Jordan. It holds significant importance in the biblical narrative as the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. Deuteronomy 34:1.
The name Nebo is also linked to a Babylonian god, Nabu, who was associated with wisdom, writing, and prophecy. This reflects the cultural exchanges and influences between the Israelites and their neighboring civilizations.
48They departed from the mountains of Abarim and camped in the plains of Moab by the Jordan, across from Jericho.
Numbers 33:48
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנוּ֙ בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת מוֹאָ֔ב עַ֖ל יַרְדֵּ֥ן
NAS: in the plains of Moab by the Jordan
KJV: in the plains of Moab by Jordan
INT: and camped the plains of Moab by the Jordan
Numbers 33:48
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵהָרֵ֣י הָעֲבָרִ֑ים וַֽיַּחֲנוּ֙ בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת
NAS: from the mountains of Abarim and camped
KJV: from the mountains of Abarim, and pitched
INT: journeyed the mountains of Abarim and camped the plains
49They camped by the Jordan, from Beth Jesimoth as far as the Abel Acacia Grove[d] in the plains of Moab.
Numbers 33:49
HEB: הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים בְּעַֽרְבֹ֖ת מוֹאָֽב׃ ס
NAS: as Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab.
KJV: in the plains of Moab.
INT: Abel-shittim the plains of Moab
Deuteronomy 32:49
HEB: אֶל־ הַר֩ הָעֲבָרִ֨ים הַזֶּ֜ה הַר־
NAS: mountain of the Abarim, Mount
KJV: into this mountain Abarim, [unto] mount
INT: about mountain of the Abarim to this Mount
Moab: Moab
Original Word: מוֹאָב
Part of Speech: proper name, of a people and territory
Transliteration: Moab
Pronunciation: moh-AV
Phonetic Spelling: (mo-awb)
Meaning: Moab, derived from the Hebrew root, possibly meaning: “from father” (מֵאָב),
indicating the ancestral relationship described in Genesis.
G3473 Μωάβ (Moab) – G3474 Μωαβίτης (Moabite)
Moab refers to both a person and a nation in the Bible. Moab was the son of Lot, born from an incestuous relationship with his eldest daughter. Genesis 19:37. The descendants of Moab became the Moabites, a people often in conflict with Israel. The Moabites settled east of the Dead Sea, in a region known for its fertile land. They were closely related to the Israelites, being descendants of Lot, Abraham’s nephew. Despite this kinship, the Moabites frequently opposed Israel, both politically and religiously. The Moabites worshiped Chemosh, a god to whom they sometimes offered human sacrifices. The relationship between Israel and Moab was complex, involving periods of both conflict and cooperation.
Numbers 33:49
HEB: הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ מִבֵּ֣ית הַיְשִׁמֹ֔ת עַ֖ד אָבֵ֣ל
NAS: by the Jordan, from Beth-jeshimoth as far
KJV: by Jordan, from Bethjesimoth [even] unto Abelshittim
INT: by the Jordan Beth-jeshimoth far Abel-shittim
3383 [e]
hay·yar·dên
הַיַּרְדֵּן֙
the Jordan
1020 [e]
hay·ši·mōṯ,
הַיְשִׁמֹ֔ת
Beth Jeshimoth
’ā·ḇêl
אָבֵ֣ל
63 [e]
haš·šiṭ·ṭîm;
הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים
the Abel Shittim
Yarden: Jordan
Original Word: יַרְדֵּן
Transliteration: Yarden
Pronunciation: yar-DEN
Phonetic Spelling: (yar-dane’)
Meaning: a descender principle river.
The word is derived from the Hebrew root:
יָרַד (yarad),
meaning: to descend or to go down.
G2446 (Ιορδάνης, Iordanes): The Greek equivalent of the Hebrew “Yarden,” used in the New Testament to refer to the Jordan River.
The term “Yarden” refers to the Jordan River, a significant geographical feature in the biblical narrative. It is often associated with boundary crossings, spiritual transitions, and divine interventions. The Jordan River serves as a physical and symbolic marker in the history of Israel, representing both a literal and metaphorical passage from one state of being to another.
The Jordan River is one of the most prominent rivers in the biblical lands, flowing from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. It has been a critical water source and a natural boundary throughout history. In biblical times, the Jordan was a site of numerous significant events, including the crossing of the Israelites into the Promised Land, the prophetic ministry of Elijah and Elisha, and the baptism of Yeshua/Jesus by John the Baptist.
The river’s name, meaning “to descend,” reflects its geographical descent from the highlands of Galilee to the lowest point on earth at the Dead Sea.
For more on Jordan see mmm the descender, also posts on the 12 tribes – links below:
https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-man-the-tribe-the-land-yisrael-israel-prophetic-in-every-way/
Jericho
Numbers 33:48
HEB: עַ֖ל יַרְדֵּ֥ן יְרֵחֽוֹ׃
NAS: by the Jordan [opposite] Jericho.
KJV: of Moab by Jordan [near] Jericho.
INT: by the Jordan Jericho
Numbers 33:50
HEB: עַל־ יַרְדֵּ֥ן יְרֵח֖וֹ לֵאמֹֽר׃
NAS: by the Jordan [opposite] Jericho,saying,
KJV: by Jordan [near] Jericho, saying,
INT: by the Jordan Jericho saying
Yericho or Yerecho or Yerichoh: Jericho
Original Word: יְרִיחוֹ
Transliteration: Yericho or Yerecho or Yerichoh
Pronunciation: yeh-ree-KHO
Phonetic Spelling: (yer-ee-kho’)
Meaning: Jericho, Jerecho is derived from the Hebrew root
יָרַח (yarach), meaning: moon,
possibly indicating a connection to lunar worship or the moon’s significance in ancient times.
G2410 Ἰεριχώ (Iericho) – The Greek transliteration of Jericho, used in the New Testament.
Jericho is a significant city in the Bible, often referred to as the “City of Palms” due to its lush palm trees and fertile surroundings. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and is frequently mentioned in the context of Israel’s conquest of Canaan led by Joshua.
from רָוַח, = regio fragrans, the district abounding in palms, rose-gardens, balsam, etc.
Jericho is located near the Jordan River in the Jordan Valley. It was a fortified city with strong walls, making it a strategic military target. The city’s destruction by the Israelites under Joshua’s leadership is one of the most famous events in the Old Testament, symbolizing God’s power and faithfulness to His promises. Archaeological evidence supports Jericho’s ancient habitation and its significance in trade and agriculture.
1020 Beth Hayshimoth: House of Desolations
Original Word: בֵּית הַשִּׁמֹּות
Transliteration: Beth Hayshimoth
Pronunciation: bayth ha-shee-moth
Phonetic Spelling: (bayth hah-yesh-ee-moth’)
Definition: House of Desolations house of the deserts
Meaning: Beth-ha-Jeshimoth is derived from two Hebrew words:
בֵּית beth, meaning house
and
הַשִּׁמֹּות hashimoth,
meaning: desolations or wastes.
There are no direct Greek equivalents for Beth Hayshimoth in the Strong’s Greek Dictionary, as it is a specific Hebrew place name, referring to a location on the eastern side of the Jordan River, near the Dead Sea. The name suggests a place characterized by desolation or wilderness.
Beth Hayshimoth was situated in the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben after the Israelites entered the Promised Land. It was located in the plains of Moab, an area known for its proximity to the Dead Sea and its arid, desolate landscape. The region was significant during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to Canaan, serving as a staging ground before crossing the Jordan River.
Numbers 33:49
HEB: עַ֖ד אָבֵ֣ל הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים בְּעַֽרְבֹ֖ת מוֹאָֽב׃
NAS: as far as Abel-shittim in the plains
KJV: from Bethjesimoth [even] unto Abelshittim in the plains
INT: Beth-jeshimoth far Abel-shittim the plains of Moab
Abel Hashshittim: Abel of the Acacias
Original Word: הָשִּׁטִּים אָבֵל
Transliteration: Abel Hashshittim
Pronunciation: ah-BEL hah-shit-TEEM
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-bale’ hash-shit-teem’)
Definition: Abel of the Acacias
Meaning: Abel hash-Shittim is derived from two Hebrew words: “אָבֵל” (Abel),
meaning: meadow or stream,
and “הַשִּׁטִּים” Hashshittim,
meaning: the acacias or Meadow of the acacias.
There is no direct Greek equivalent for Abel Hashshittim, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, the Greek term “Ἀκακία” (G212) refers to the acacia tree, which is part of the name shittim meaning:
wood of acacia tree
from its scourging thorns, to flog.
For believers this reminds us of the scourging Messiah suffered for us and the thorny crown that was pressed into His head.
The scourging He endured was the prophetic fulfillment of
Isaiah 53:5 and
Exodus 15:26 right before they came to Elim.
25 And Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a log. And when he cast it into the waters, they were sweetened. There the LORD made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there He tested them, 26 saying, “If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His eyes, and pay attention to His commands, and keep all His statutes,then I will not bring on you any of the diseases I inflicted on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.” 27 Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, and they camped there by the waters.…
Here is the source of our ‘name of God’, Jehovah Rophe- Yahweh rofe’ekha – רָפָא יהוה
Pronounced: Yä-wá’ (or Yod-Há-Väv-Há’) Roh-fee’. It is a name of God revealed to Moses at Marah, where God provided sweet water for the Israelites; it has the idea of “restore, make whole, repair.”
Our Heavenly Fathers promise of healing was fulfilled in Messiah as confirmed in 1 Peter 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. “By His stripes you are healed.”
Abel Hashshittim (# 7848 shit-teem) refers to a location in the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, where the Israelites camped before crossing into the Promised Land. The name suggests a place characterized by acacia trees, which were common in the region.
Abel Hashshittim is significant in the biblical narrative as the final encampment of the Israelites before entering Canaan. It is located in the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. This site is associated with the events in Numbers 25, where the Israelites fell into idolatry and immorality with the Moabites, leading to God’s judgment. The acacia trees in the area were likely used for various purposes, including construction and religious artifacts, as acacia wood was durable and abundant.
Numbers 33:48
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנוּ֙ בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת מוֹאָ֔ב עַ֖ל יַרְדֵּ֥ן
NAS: in the plains of Moab by the Jordan
KJV: in the plains of Moab by Jordan
INT: and camped the plains of Moab by the Jordan
Numbers 33:49
HEB: הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים בְּעַֽרְבֹ֖ת מוֹאָֽב׃ ס
NAS: as Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab.
KJV: in the plains of Moab.
INT: Abel-shittim the plains of Moab
Numbers 33:44
HEB: הָעֲבָרִ֖ים בִּגְב֥וּל מוֹאָֽב׃
NAS: at Iye-abarim, at the border of Moab.
KJV: in Ijeabarim, in the border of Moab.
INT: Iye-abarim the border of Moab
Moab 4124
Moab: Moab
Original Word: מוֹאָב
Part of Speech: proper name, of a people and territory
Transliteration: Moab
Pronunciation: moh-AV
Phonetic Spelling: (mo-awb)
Meaning: Moab, derived from the Hebrew root, possibly meaning: from father (מֵאָב),
indicating the ancestral relationship described in Genesis.
G3473 Μωάβ (Moab) G3474 Μωαβίτης (Moabite)
Moab refers to both a person and a nation in the Bible. Moab was the son of Lot, born from an incestuous relationship with his eldest daughter. Genesis 19:37. The descendants of Moab became the Moabites, a people often in conflict with Israel. The Moabites settled east of the Dead Sea, in a region known for its fertile land. They were closely related to the Israelites, being descendants of Lot, Abraham’s nephew. Despite this kinship, the Moabites frequently opposed Israel, both politically and religiously. The Moabites worshiped Chemosh, a god to whom they sometimes offered human sacrifices. The relationship between Israel and Moab was complex, involving periods of both conflict and cooperation.
Now we are at the end of our journey through the wilderness, we are aware that it is a process both for the Israelites and for us. God took His people out of Egypt and all they had there, including slavery; and for the next 40 years He took Egypt and all its influences out of them. Only 2 of the original travelers were free enough to go forward, a remnant; those born in the wilderness knew His provision their whole life. It usually follows that the longer we have been in the world, the more we have been exposed to its influences and need to gain freedom from. In Galatians 1:17, Paul claims he did not go to Jerusalem immediately,
Gal. 2:1. What did Paul do in the 14 year period before his second journey?
Hebrews 11:38. the Apostle remembers being “in perils in the wilderness.”
Paul had wilderness times of preparation early in his ministry during “three years in Arabia.” to get free from all he had become without Christ.
Are we any different? This is a process and not achieved overnight, there is no quick fix. However, the quicker we yield and part ourselves from the old life, and the old nature of the carnal identity, traditions and worldly cultures, the sooner His Holy Spirit can augment the change from within. Our self assertiveness and all our mental qualities in the soul, must be replaced by a regenerated spirit and whose reliance on Gods indwelling spirit is evident. This is hard for independent, capable, intelligent individuals because it makes no logical sense. All our old man traits need to be crucified and replaced by faith, which means letting go of our desire and ability to control our environment and life. The cravings and lust for satisfying the flesh in all its guises and excuses, are what will prevent spiritual growth, and we will end up spinning our wheels and going nowhere fast. When we continue looking to the natural realm, trying to furnish our personal needs in all areas by providing and protecting ourselves; it will stunt our faith in a Heavenly Provider. This in turn puts a tourniquet on the development of a personal relationship with the Father by His Spirit in Yeshua/Jesus name. Galatians 5:16-17. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh 17For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other:
These points are some of what the Israelites were learning and there is so much more that can be said to really do justice to this subject. These posts are just a basic overall view; or the topic would be much longer than it is already!
Many times the Israelites were swayed by the pressures that came from the ‘mixed multitude’, who were not fully Hebrews and left Egypt with them hoping for a better life. They were rebellious and disobedient and would not conform or follow through on their verbal agreement to the covenant. Many wanted to turn back to where they had come from, to return to that which was familiar and less challenging. For us it can be ungodly influences through family members, friends, co-workers or worldly media. Any failure is not on Gods part, because He does not change; so are we keeping our side of the covenant we have made with Him? How we respond to our wilderness trials, testings and hard experiences, will directly affect how long we will stay there, and in which camp, in order to learn the lessons He desires to teach us.
The land they inherited and came into, is the only place in the earth that the Lord God, Creator of Heaven and Earth placed His name.
https://www.minimannamoments.com/i-will-put-my-name-here/
This land must be kept to a higher level of holiness than the rest of the world and it has been given to His people Israel, and those who join Israel by being grafted in by grace. All idols must be thrown down, and when the Israelites turned from the Lord and followed those idols they were evicted from the land; as God used other nations to take them into captivity e.g. Babylon.
There is a significant reference here to the life, health and physical body of the believer, we are the only people where the Lord God places His Name. We belong to Him because He paid the ultimate price, and we are to cast away all idols that take any important place in our lives before the Lord. We are part of a holy nation now and are called to a higher standard than the world around us.
2 Corinthians 6:17.
Come out from among them and be ye separate – be holy, consecrated, set apart to Him. If we don’t, we compromise and live with one foot in the world and can easily fall into sin and backslide into worldly ways. We are to die to the old life and dedicate ourselves to the Messiah and His kingdom. There is a standard that we must have for our lives as carriers of His Glory, the presence of His Holy Spirit who cannot live in an unclean environment. We are that sanctuary now, and have become the dwelling place of the Lord in earthen vessels.
Let’s run our race and keeping our eyes on Messiah, finish our course, because we did not select it, God authored it, established it and He will perfect and finish it.
Heb. 12:1 1; Cor. 9:24; Heb. 12:2.
The world behind us – the promised land before us.
No turning back.
