Numbers 33:48 (KJV)

What does Numbers 33:48 mean?

Numbers 33:48 records that the Israelites left the mountains of Abarim and set up camp in the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River across from Jericho. This verse marks a key stage in their journey, showing they are now right on the edge of entering the land promised to them.

Moses is recounting the stages of Israel’s journey from Egypt to the border of Canaan, listing each stop along the way. The mention of the plains of Moab by the Jordan near Jericho highlights how close the Israelites now are to crossing into the land God had promised, setting the stage for the events that follow in the book.

The Hebrew behind Numbers 33:48

• "departed" (נָסַע, nasa‘): This word means to pull up tent pegs or set out on a journey, emphasizing the movement and temporary nature of Israel’s travels.
• "mountains" (הָר, har): This term refers to a range or group of hills, in this case the "mountains of Abarim," which were a significant geographic marker east of the Jordan.
• "Abarim" (עֲבָרִים, ‘Avarim): The name means "regions beyond" or "those on the other side," pointing to their location east of the Jordan River.
• "plains" (עֲרָבָה, ‘aravah): This word describes the flat, open land along the Jordan, which was suitable for a large encampment.
• "Moab" (מוֹאָב, Mo’av): This is the territory east of the Jordan, traditionally inhabited by the descendants of Lot.
• "Jordan" (יַרְדֵּן, Yarden): The main river forming the eastern boundary of Canaan, which the Israelites must cross to enter the promised land.
• "Jericho" (יְרִיחוֹ, Yericho): A well-known city just across the Jordan, famous for its walls and as the first city the Israelites will encounter in Canaan.

Why Numbers 33:48 matters

• Numbers 33:48 pinpoints the Israelites’ exact location just before they enter Canaan, making it clear how close they are to fulfilling the promise made to their ancestors.
• The verse connects the journey’s past stages to the coming events, helping readers track the movement and progress of the people as they prepare for a new chapter.
• By naming specific places, Numbers 33:48 grounds the story in real geography, reminding readers that these events happened in actual locations that can be traced on a map.