1 These are the stages of the people of Israel, when they went out of the land of Egypt by their companies under the leadership of Moses and Aaron.
2 And Moses wrote down their starting places, stage by stage, by command of the Lord, and these are their stages according to their starting places.
3 They set out from Rameses in the first month, on the fifteenth day of the first month. On the day after the Passover, the people of Israel went out triumphantly in the sight of all the Egyptians,
4 For the Egyptians were burying all their firstborn, whom the Lord had struck down among them. On their gods also the Lord executed judgments.
5 So the people of Israel set out from Rameses and camped at Succoth.
6 And they set out from Succoth and camped at Etham, which is on the edge of the wilderness.
7 And they set out from Etham and turned back to Pi-hahiroth, which is east of Baal-zephon, and they camped before Migdol.
8 And they set out from before Hahiroth and passed through the midst of the sea into the wilderness, and they went a three days’ journey in the wilderness of Etham and camped at Marah.
9 And they set out from Marah and came to Elim; at Elim there were twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, and they camped there.
10 And they set out from Elim and camped by the Red Sea.
11 And they set out from the Red Sea and camped in the wilderness of Sin.
12 And they moved from the wilderness of Sin and encamped at Dophkah.
13 And they set out from Dophkah and encamped at Alush.
14 And they set out from Alush and camped at Rephidim, where there was no water for the people to drink.
15 They set out from Rephidim and camped in the wilderness of Sinai.
16 And they set out from the wilderness of Sinai and camped at Kibroth-hattaavah.
17 They set out from Kibroth-hattaavah and camped at Hazeroth.
18 And they set out from Hazeroth and camped at Rithmah.
19 And they set out from Rithmah and camped at Rimmon-perez.
20 And they set out from Rimmon-perez and camped at Libnah.
21 And they set out from Libnah and camped at Rissah.
22 And they moved from Rissah and camped at Kehelathah.
23 And they went from Kehelathah and camped at Mount Shepher.
24 And they set out from Jotbathah and camped at Abronah.
25 And they set out from Haradah and pitched in Makheloth.
26 And they set out from Makheloth and camped at Tahath.
27 And they set out from Tahath and camped at Terah.
28 And they set out from Haradah and camped at Makheloth.
29 And they set out from Mithkah and camped at Hashmonah.
30 And they set out from Hashmonah and camped at Moseroth.
31 And they set out from Moseroth and camped at Bene-jaakan.
32 And they set out from Bene-jaakan and camped at Hor-haggidgad.
33 And they set out from Hor-haggidgad and camped at Jotbathah.
34 And they set out from Jotbathah and camped at Abronah.
35 They set out from Ebronah and camped at Ezion-geber.
36 And they set out from Ezion-geber and camped in the wilderness of Zin (that is, Kadesh).
37 And they set out from Kadesh and camped at Mount Hor, on the edge of the land of Edom.
38 And Aaron the priest went up Mount Hor at the command of the Lord and died there, in the fortieth year after the people of Israel had come out of the land of Egypt, on the first day of the fifth month.
39 And Aaron was 123 years old when he died on Mount Hor.
40 And the Canaanite, the king of Arad, who lived in the Negeb in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the people of Israel.
41 And they set out from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah.
42 And they set out from Libnah and camped at Rissah.
43 and they set out from Punon and camped at Oboth.
44 And they set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the territory of Moab.
45 And they set out from Iim and camped at Dibon-gad.
46 They set out from Dibon-gad and camped at Almon-diblathaim.
47 They set out from Almon-diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo.
48 And they set out from the mountains of Abarim and camped in the plains of Moab by the Jordan at Jericho.
49 they camped by the Jordan from Beth-jeshimoth as far as Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab.
50 And the Lord spoke to Moses in the plains of Moab by the Jordan at Jericho, saying,
51 “Speak to the people of Israel and say to them, When you pass over the Jordan into the land of Canaan,
52 then you shall drive out all the inhabitants of the land from before you and destroy all their figured stones and destroy all their metal images and demolish all their high places.
53 And you shall take possession of the land and settle in it, for I have given the land to you to possess it.
54 You shall inherit the land by lot according to your clans. To a large tribe you shall give a large inheritance, and to a small tribe you shall give a small inheritance. Wherever the lot falls for anyone, that shall be his. According to the tribes of your fathers you shall inherit.
55 But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those of them whom you let remain shall be as barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they shall trouble you in the land where you dwell.
56 And it shall come to pass that I will do to you as I thought to do to them.”
The True Meaning of Numbers 33
The Book of Numbers, the fourth book of the Pentateuch, is attributed to Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. The Israelites journey through the wilderness in this chapter, moving from one encampment to another, guided by the hand of God.
This chapter serves as a record of the Israelites’ travels, providing a detailed account of their various stops along the way. It is a testament to the faithfulness of God, who led His people through the challenges of the desert, and the obedience of the Israelites, who followed His commands. We will see the Israelites’ progress from their departure from Egypt, as described in the Book of Exodus, to their arrival at the plains of Moab, where they await the conquest of the Promised Land, as we delve into this chapter. This journey is marked by both triumphs and trials, as the Israelites face obstacles and temptations, but ultimately remain steadfast in their devotion to the Lord.
Numbers 33:1-2
The verses in Numbers 33:1-2 state the stages in the journey of the Israelites when they came out of Egypt by divisions under the leadership of Moses and Aaron. At the Lord’s command Moses recorded the stages in their journey.” These verses mark the beginning of a detailed account of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It is significant that Moses meticulously recorded each stage of their journey, highlighting the importance of remembering and reflecting on their past experiences. This act of recording not only served as a historical record but also as a spiritual reminder of God’s faithfulness and guidance throughout their wanderings.
This passage underscores the leadership of Moses and Aaron in guiding the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt. Moses, chosen by God to lead His people, played a pivotal role in the deliverance of Israel from slavery and the subsequent journey towards Canaan. Aaron, as the high priest, represented the spiritual aspect of their journey, serving as a mediator between the people and God. Together, Moses and Aaron led the Israelites through trials and triumphs, demonstrating the importance of strong leadership in times of uncertainty and transition.
The act of documenting their journey reflects the theme of remembrance and gratitude prevalent throughout the Bible. Moses reminds the Israelites in Deuteronomy 8:2 to remember how the Lord their God led them all the way in the wilderness for forty years to humble and test them in order to know what was in their hearts, whether or not they would keep his commands. The Israelites were called to reflect on God’s provision, protection, and faithfulness despite their disobedience and shortcomings by acknowledging and recounting their past experiences. This emphasis on remembrance serves as a lesson for believers today to look back on their own journeys and recognize God’s guiding hand in their lives.
Numbers 33:3-4
The verses in Numbers 33:3-4 state that they set out from Rameses in the first month, on the fifteenth day of the first month. On the day after the Passover, the people of Israel went out triumphantly in the sight of all the Egyptians, while the Egyptians were burying all their firstborn, whom the Lord had struck down among them. On their gods also the Lord executed judgments.”
These verses recount a pivotal moment in the history of the Israelites as they left the land of Egypt. The mention of Rameses indicates the starting point of their journey, which is significant because it marks the fulfillment of God’s promise to deliver His people from slavery. The fact that they set out on the fifteenth day of the first month, the day after the Passover, holds great symbolic importance. The Passover was a powerful reminder of God’s protection and deliverance of the Israelites from the final plague that struck the Egyptians but passed over the houses of the Israelites marked with the blood of the lamb. This event not only liberated the Israelites but also highlighted God’s judgment on the gods of Egypt.
The image of the Israelites leaving triumphantly in plain sight of the Egyptians, who were mourning their dead, shows the victory of God over the false gods of Egypt and His faithfulness to His people. This event also underscores the idea of divine judgment and the consequences of opposing God. The Egyptians, who worshipped idols and false gods, suffered losses not only of their firstborn but also in the destruction of their idols by the hand of the true God, the Lord Almighty.
This passage in Numbers echoes several themes found throughout the Bible, including God’s faithfulness to His promises, His deliverance of His people from bondage, His judgment on the wicked, and the contrast between the one true God and false idols. The symbolism of the Passover and the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt are crucial elements in understanding the overarching narrative of God’s plan for redemption and salvation. These events foreshadow the ultimate deliverance that comes through Jesus Christ, the sacrificial Lamb whose blood brings eternal freedom from sin and death. The reference in 1 Corinthians 5:7 connects Jesus to the Passover Lamb, further linking Old Testament events to their fulfillment in the New Testament.
Numbers 33:5-15
Numbers 33:5-15 recounts the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to their encampment at Mount Sinai. This passage emphasizes the obedience of the Israelites to the leading of the Lord through Moses. The first destination mentioned is Rameses, the place where the Israelites started their journey after the night of the Passover. This serves as a reminder of God’s deliverance and faithfulness in leading His people out of bondage in Egypt. Succoth is mentioned as the journey continues, which means “booths” or “tents.”” This stop represents the temporary nature of the Israelites’ dwellings as they journeyed through the wilderness. This can be compared to our lives as Christians, passing through this world as temporary residents, looking forward to our eternal home with God in heaven (Hebrews 13:14).
Another significant stop along the way is Etham, located at the edge of the wilderness. This serves as a reminder that sometimes God leads us to the edge of our comfort zones to test our faith and reliance on Him. It was here that the Israelites turned back towards Pi-Hahiroth before the Red Sea, where they faced the seemingly impossible challenge of the pursuing Egyptian army and the vast sea before them (Exodus 14). This event is a powerful demonstration of God’s miraculous deliverance and His ability to make a way where there seems to be no way.
The passage then mentions their camping at Marah, where the water was bitter. This incident led to the miracle of God making the water sweet after Moses threw a tree in it, showing that God can turn bitterness into sweetness. This can serve as a metaphor for our own lives when we encounter trials and challenges – God has the power to transform our sorrows into joy and our struggles into blessings (Isaiah 43:19).
Additionally, Elim is highlighted as a place with twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, providing ample provision and rest for the weary travelers. This shows God’s care for His people, providing abundantly for their needs even in the wilderness. It serves as a reminder that God is our provider and sustainer, and He will always meet our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). This passage in Numbers 33:5-15 not only recounts the physical journey of the Israelites but also holds spiritual lessons for believers today. It underscores God’s faithfulness, provision, and miraculous power in leading His people through challenges and towards His promises. It encourages us to trust in God’s guidance, even when we find ourselves at the edge of the unknown, knowing that He will always lead us to a place of rest and abundance.
Numbers 33:16-36
The Israelites in Numbers 33:16-36 are on a journey through the wilderness, following God’s guidance as they move from place to place. This part of the verse recounts some of the specific locations where the Israelites camped during their journey. Each place had its own significance, challenges, and blessings that the Israelites experienced as they traveled towards the Promised Land. The Israelites camped at a place called “Ezion-Geber” in verse 16.” This was a significant location as it was near the Red Sea and served as an important port for the Israelites during their travels. Ezion-Geber was not only a stopping point for the Israelites but also a reminder of God’s provision and protection as they navigated through unfamiliar territory. This location illustrates God’s faithfulness in guiding His people to safe and strategic places as they journeyed through the wilderness.
Continuing in verse 17, the Israelites moved on to another location called “Kadesh.” Kadesh was a pivotal place in the Israelites’ journey where they faced significant challenges and made crucial decisions. It was at Kadesh that the Israelites, under the leadership of Moses, sent out spies to scout the land of Canaan (Numbers 13). Unfortunately, the lack of faith and disobedience of the Israelites led to consequences that resulted in them wandering in the wilderness for forty years. The story of Kadesh serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, obedience, and trust in God’s promises. The Israelites finally arrive at their destination, the plains of Moab by the Jordan River near Jericho, in verse 36. This marked the culmination of their long journey through the wilderness and brought them to the threshold of entering the Promised Land. The journey of the Israelites, as outlined in Numbers 33, highlights the faithfulness of God in guiding His people, the importance of obedience and trust, and the consequences of disobedience.
Throughout the Bible, the theme of journeying through the wilderness is a metaphor for the spiritual journey of life. Just as the Israelites faced challenges, temptations, and blessings in the wilderness, believers today also navigate through a world filled with trials and tribulations. The story of the Israelites serves as a reminder to trust in God’s guidance, to remain faithful in the midst of challenges, and to hold firmly to the promises of God, knowing that He will lead us to our own “Promised Land” if we follow Him wholeheartedly.
Numbers 33:37-49
Numbers 33:37-49 recounts the Israelites’ journey as they approached the Promised Land. Identify the subject: “Let’s”
Rewritten sentence: Let’s break down this passage into important sections and delve into its significance. The Israelites moved from Kadesh to Mount Hor in Numbers 33:37-38. Here, Aaron the priest goes up Mount Hor at God’s command to die because of his earlier disobedience. This event marks the passing of Aaron, Moses’ brother and the first high priest of Israel. Aaron played a significant role in the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt, and his obedience and leadership were instrumental in many key moments in their history. His death signifies a shift in leadership and a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God’s commands.
After Aaron’s death, in Numbers 33:41-43, we find the Israelites continuing their journey from Mount Hor to Zalmonah, Punon, and Oboth. These were simply places on their route to the Promised Land, but each stop served as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision during their travels. Despite the hardships and challenges they faced, God remained with them every step of the way, guiding and protecting them.
Next, in Numbers 33:44-45, we see the Israelites camped in Iye Abarim, the border of Moab. Here, God instructs Moses concerning the conquest of the land of Canaan and the importance of driving out its inhabitants. This passage highlights God’s promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan as their inheritance but also emphasizes the need for obedience and faithfulness in following God’s instructions. It serves as a reminder that God’s promises are contingent upon our willingness to trust and obey Him. The Israelites journey from Iye Abarim to the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho as the passage continues in Numbers 33:46-49. This marked the final leg of their journey before entering the Promised Land. The proximity to the land of Canaan heightened the anticipation and excitement among the Israelites. At this point, they were on the brink of fulfilling God’s promise to their ancestors and claiming the land He had prepared for them. It was a pivotal moment in their history, showcasing God’s faithfulness in leading them from Egypt to the Promised Land despite their struggles and shortcomings. Numbers 33:37-49 captures the Israelites’ journey towards the fulfillment of God’s promise of the Promised Land. It highlights key events, such as Aaron’s death, God’s instructions regarding the conquest of Canaan, and the Israelites’ arrival at the border of the land. Through these events, we see themes of leadership transition, obedience, faithfulness, and God’s unwavering faithfulness to His people. This passage serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and the importance of trusting in His guidance and promises throughout our own journeys in life.
Numbers 33:50-56
The Lord gives instructions to the Israelites as they are on the verge of entering the Promised Land in Numbers 33:50-56. God tells Moses in verse 50 to speak to the Israelites and instruct them to drive out all the inhabitants of the land they are about to enter. This commandment was not just about conquering the land, but it was also symbolic of the importance of spiritual purity. The Lord wanted His people to rid the land of all idolatry and wickedness, so they could establish a holy nation that worshipped Him alone. This act of cleansing the land was crucial for the Israelites to maintain their covenant relationship with God.
The importance of obedience to God’s commands is emphasized in verse 55, where God warns the Israelites that if they do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those whom they let remain will become thorns in their sides and their gods will be a snare to them. This warning serves as a reminder that compromise with sin and disobedience to God’s commands will only lead to trouble and hinder the blessings God intends for His people. It also shows the importance of complete faith and trust in God’s instructions, even when they might seem difficult or challenging.
Throughout the Bible, we see the concept of spiritual warfare portrayed in various instances. The Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land was not just a physical battle but a spiritual one as well. It symbolizes the ongoing struggle between good and evil, light and darkness. This theme is echoed in the New Testament as well, where believers are called to put on the full armor of God to stand against the schemes of the devil (Ephesians 6:11). Just as the Israelites were called to drive out the inhabitants of the land, Christians are encouraged to continually root out sin and evil from their lives, cultivating a pure and holy relationship with God. Numbers 33:50-56 highlights the importance of obedience, faithfulness, and spiritual purity in maintaining a close relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that as God’s chosen people, we are called to live in a manner that is pleasing to Him, rooting out sin and wickedness from our lives, and trusting in His guidance and protection.
After Numbers 33
The Israelites had finally reached the plains of Moab, where they would soon cross the Jordan River and enter the Promised Land. However, their journey was not without its challenges. The people had faced many trials and tribulations, but through it all, they had remained steadfast in their faith. The reverend knew that the road ahead would not be an easy one as they stood on the cusp of a new chapter. The battles they had fought had prepared them for the battles to come, and he was confident that with God’s guidance, they would emerge victorious. The next chapter would be a test of their faith, but the reverend knew that the Israelites were up to the challenge.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.