King James Version
What Does Numbers 21:12 Mean?
“From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared.”
Numbers 21:12 · KJV
Context
10
And the children of Israel set forward, and pitched in Oboth.
11
And they journeyed from Oboth, and pitched at Ijeabarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrising . Ijeabarim: or, heaps of Abarim
12
From thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared.
13
From thence they removed, and pitched on the other side of Arnon, which is in the wilderness that cometh out of the coasts of the Amorites: for Arnon is the border of Moab, between Moab and the Amorites.
14
Wherefore it is said in the book of the wars of the LORD, What he did in the Red sea, and in the brooks of Arnon, What: or, Vaheb in Suphah
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryFrom thence they removed, and pitched in the valley of Zared (נַחַל זָרֶד, nachal Zared)—This wadi marked the boundary between Edomite territory and Moabite lands. Deuteronomy 2:13-14 identifies this crossing as the moment when the condemned generation finally died off—38 years after Kadesh-barnea. The nachal (torrent valley) becomes a theological marker: death's boundary crossed, judgment complete.
The terseness of this itinerary conceals profound significance. Crossing Zared meant the old generation was buried, the oath fulfilled, and God's purpose advancing despite human failure. Geography carries theology.
The terseness of this itinerary conceals profound significance. Crossing Zared meant the old generation was buried, the oath fulfilled, and God's purpose advancing despite human failure. Geography carries theology.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The valley of Zared (modern Wadi el-Hasa) flows westward into the Dead Sea, forming Moab's southern border. Israel's crossing marked both geographical progress and generational transition—the wilderness judgment was complete.
Reflection Questions
- What 'valleys' in your life mark the completion of one chapter and the beginning of another?
- How does God's faithfulness to complete His purposes encourage you when human failure seems to derail His plans?
- Where do you see God turning boundary markers into symbols of His redemptive timing?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsנָסָ֑עוּ2 of 5
“From thence they removed”
H5265properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ3 of 5
“and pitched”
H2583properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s
בְּנַ֥חַל4 of 5
“in the valley”
H5158a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Numbers. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Numbers 21:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Numbers 21:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge