Numbers 33:21 (KJV)

What does Numbers 33:21 mean?

Numbers 33:21 records that the Israelites left a place called Libnah and set up camp at a new location named Rissah during their journey through the wilderness. This verse is part of a detailed list tracking each stage of their travels after leaving Egypt.

The book of Numbers here is recounting, step by step, every stop the Israelites made as they moved toward the Promised Land. Moses is the narrator, listing these places for the people of Israel, likely as a way to remember their journey and God’s guidance. This verse simply marks one transition in a long sequence of moves.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 33:21

• "removed" (נָסַע, nasaʿ, H5265) means to pull up or set out, often used for breaking camp. This highlights the temporary nature of their stay at Libnah and the ongoing movement of the people.
• "pitched" (חָנָה, chanah, H2583) means to set up camp or settle temporarily. This word emphasizes that Rissah was another stop, not a permanent home.

Why Numbers 33:21 matters

• This verse is part of a careful record, showing that every stage of the journey was remembered and had meaning for the Israelites.
• The mention of specific places like Libnah and Rissah helps ground the story in real geography, reminding readers that these were actual travels, not just symbolic.
• The verse fits into a larger pattern in Numbers 33, where each move is listed, highlighting the long and sometimes difficult path the Israelites took before reaching their destination.