Numbers 22:1 (KJV)

What does Numbers 22:1 mean?

Numbers 22:1 describes how the Israelites traveled onward and set up camp in the plains of Moab, an area located across the Jordan River from Jericho. This verse marks the Israelites’ arrival at a significant location just before they enter the land promised to them.

At this point in the story, the Israelites have finished their long journey through the wilderness and are now camped on the eastern side of the Jordan River, opposite the city of Jericho. The verse sets the scene for the events that follow, including the interactions with the Moabites and the story of Balaam, by showing that Israel is now right on the edge of Canaan, ready for the next stage in their journey.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 22:1

• "children" (בְּנֵי, bənê): This word means "sons" or "descendants," emphasizing the collective identity of Israel as a family or nation.
• "plains" (עֲרָבֹת, ʿărāvot): This term refers to the flat, open land near Moab, highlighting that the Israelites are not in the mountains or wilderness anymore but in a broad, settled area.
• "side" (עֵבֶר, ʿēver): This word means "across" or "beyond," clarifying that the Israelites are on the eastern side of the Jordan River, not yet in the land of Canaan itself.

Why Numbers 22:1 matters

• Numbers 22:1 clarifies the exact location of the Israelites, which is crucial for understanding the tension with Moab and the events that follow, especially the story of Balaam.
• The verse shows a transition from wandering to being poised on the edge of the Promised Land, signaling a major turning point in Israel’s journey.
• By naming Jericho, the verse connects this moment to later events in Joshua, where Jericho becomes the first city Israel will encounter after crossing the Jordan.