Numbers 33:14 (KJV)

What does Numbers 33:14 mean?

Numbers 33:14 records that the Israelites traveled from a place called Alush and set up camp at Rephidim, where they faced the problem of having no water to drink. This verse is part of a detailed list describing the journey stops of the Israelites as they left Egypt and moved toward the promised land.

In this section of Numbers, Moses is recounting the stages of Israel’s journey for the people. The mention of Rephidim highlights a specific hardship: the lack of water, which was a major challenge during their travels. This verse helps readers track the route and remember the difficulties the Israelites faced in the wilderness.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 33:14

• "removed" (נָסַע, nasaʿ): This word means to pull up (like tent pegs) and set out on a journey. It emphasizes the physical act of moving camp, showing the Israelites’ ongoing journey.
• "encamped" (חָנָה, chanah): This word means to pitch tents or settle temporarily. It points to the Israelites’ pattern of stopping and staying at different locations along the way.
• "water" (מַיִם, mayim): This is the basic Hebrew word for water, and its mention here underlines the seriousness of the situation at Rephidim—there was none available for the people.
• "people" (עָם, ʿam): This word refers to the whole community of Israelites, not just a few individuals, highlighting that the entire nation was affected by the lack of water.
• "drink" (שָׁתָה, shatah): This verb means to drink, stressing the essential human need that was unmet at Rephidim.

Why Numbers 33:14 matters

• Numbers 33:14 reminds readers that the journey from Egypt was not just a straight path but was filled with real difficulties, like the lack of water at Rephidim.
• By listing each stop, including places of hardship, the verse helps readers see the faithfulness and perseverance required of the Israelites.
• This verse connects to earlier stories in Exodus where the lack of water at Rephidim led to significant events, such as the people’s complaints and God providing water, giving context to the challenges faced during the journey.