Numbers 33:35 (KJV)

What does Numbers 33:35 mean?

Numbers 33:35 records that the Israelites left a place called Ebronah and set up camp at Eziongaber during their journey through the wilderness. This verse is part of a detailed list describing each stage of the Israelites’ travels after leaving Egypt.

In this section of Numbers, Moses is recounting the specific places where the Israelites camped as they moved toward the Promised Land. The verse is a simple travel record, showing the route and progress of the people. Naming each stop highlights the real, historical journey and helps trace the path the Israelites took.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 33:35

• "departed" (נָסַע, nasaʿ): This word often means to pull up stakes or set out on a journey, emphasizing the act of moving from one place to another, not just leaving but actively traveling.
• "encamped" (חָנָה, chanah): This word means to pitch tents or settle temporarily, showing that Eziongaber was not just a stop but a place where the Israelites stayed for a time.

Why Numbers 33:35 matters

• This verse helps readers see that the Israelites’ journey was made up of many real, named locations, grounding the story in geography and history rather than legend.
• By listing each stop, the text emphasizes God’s guidance and presence with the people at every stage of their journey, even in places that might seem insignificant.
• Understanding these place names can help connect the dots between different parts of the Bible, as some locations reappear in other stories or historical records.