Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there.

NUMBERS 20:1KJV
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Numbers 20:1 (KJV)

What does Numbers 20:1 mean?

Numbers 20:1 describes how the entire community of Israel arrived at the wilderness of Zin during the first month, settled in a place called Kadesh, and that Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, died and was buried there. This verse marks a significant moment in Israel’s journey, noting both their location and the loss of a key family member.

The verse is set during the Israelites’ long period of wandering in the desert after leaving Egypt. The people have come to a region called Zin, and they stay in a place named Kadesh. Miriam’s death is mentioned briefly but is important, as she was a leader and prophetess among the people. This event signals a turning point, as it happens near the end of the wilderness wanderings, and sets the stage for what follows in the chapter.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 20:1

  • "came" (בּוֹא, bo) is a common Hebrew verb for arriving or entering, emphasizing the movement of the whole group into a new area.
  • "congregation" (עֵדָה, edah) refers to the entire assembly of Israel, highlighting that this was a collective experience, not just a few individuals.
  • "desert" (מִדְבָּר, midbar) and "Zin" (צִן, tsin) together specify the harsh wilderness region the Israelites entered, which is different from other deserts mentioned elsewhere.
  • "Kadesh" (קָדֵשׁ, qadesh) is a significant location in the Israelites’ journey, often associated with important events and decisions.

Why Numbers 20:1 matters

  • Numbers 20:1 marks the beginning of the final year of Israel’s wilderness journey, signaling a shift in the story from wandering to preparing to enter the promised land.
  • The mention of Miriam’s death is significant because she was a prominent leader, and her passing marks the end of an era for the Israelites.
  • The verse sets the stage for the events that follow in Numbers 20, including the story of Moses striking the rock, which are all connected to the location and timing introduced here.

Where else these words appear

“Zin” Hebrew H6790 · used in 9 verses

  • Numbers 13:21 So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.
  • Numbers 33:36 And they removed from Eziongaber, and pitched in the wilderness of Zin, which is Kadesh.
  • Deuteronomy 32:51 Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of Meribah-Kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel.

“Miriam” Hebrew H4813 · used in 13 verses

  • Exodus 15:20 And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances.
  • Numbers 12:5 And the LORD came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth.
  • Deuteronomy 24:9 Remember what the LORD thy God did unto Miriam by the way, after that ye were come forth out of Egypt.

“Kadesh” Hebrew H6946 · used in 18 verses

  • Genesis 14:7 And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which is Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.
  • Numbers 20:16 And when we cried unto the LORD, he heard our voice, and sent an angel, and hath brought us forth out of Egypt: and, behold, we are in Kadesh, a city in the uttermost of thy border:
  • Deuteronomy 32:51 Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of Meribah-Kadesh, in the wilderness of Zin; because ye sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel.

“buried” Hebrew H6912 · used in 122 verses

  • Genesis 15:15 And thou shalt go to thy fathers in peace; thou shalt be buried in a good old age.
  • Ruth 1:17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me.
  • 2 Kings 15:7 So Azariah slept with his fathers; and they buried him with his fathers in the city of David: and Jotham his son reigned in his stead.