King James Version

What Does Numbers 33:31 Mean?

Numbers 33:31 in the King James Version says “And they departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Benejaakan.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 33 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And they departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Benejaakan.”

Numbers 33:31 · KJV

Context

29

And they went from Mithcah, and pitched in Hashmonah.

30

And they departed from Hashmonah, and encamped at Moseroth.

31

And they departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Benejaakan.

32

And they removed from Benejaakan, and encamped at Horhagidgad.

33

And they went from Horhagidgad, and pitched in Jotbathah.

Read Numbers 33 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Bene-jaakan—בְּנֵי יַעֲקָן (Benē Ya'ăqān, 'sons of Jaakan'). This station preserves the name of an Edomite clan (Genesis 36:27), indicating Israel's proximity to kinsmen-turned-enemies. Edom refused Israel passage (20:14-21), forcing the circuitous desert route.

The presence of Edomite settlements along Israel's path illustrates God's meticulous sovereignty—He could have given Israel military victory over Esau's descendants, but commanded restraint (Deuteronomy 2:4-5). Divine providence sometimes means the longer, harder road that respects familial ties, foreshadowing Christ's teaching on loving enemies.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Jaakan (also called Akan) was a Horite chieftain in Edom (1 Chronicles 1:42). Israel's interactions with Edom during the Exodus period were fraught with tension, as blood relations (descendants of Jacob and Esau) became political adversaries.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why would God command Israel to take the difficult route around Edom rather than conquer them?
  2. How does Israel's restraint toward Edom inform New Testament ethics of non-retaliation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 5 words
וַיִּסְע֖וּ1 of 5

“And they departed”

H5265

properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey

מִמֹּֽסֵר֑וֹת2 of 5

“from Moseroth”

H4149

moseroth, a place in the desert

וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ3 of 5

“and pitched”

H2583

properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s

בִּבְנֵ֥י4 of 5
H0
יַֽעֲקָֽן׃5 of 5

“in Benejaakan”

H1142

bene-jaakan, a place in the desert

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 33:31 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 33:31 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 10:6Genesis 36:271 Chronicles 1:43

Places in This Verse

Bene-jaakanSettlement · Modern: Birein · 30.79°N, 34.47°E2 verses across 1 book
MoserothCampsite · Modern: Har Zin · 30.83°N, 35.06°E3 verses across 2 books
View all places in Numbers 33 →

Test Your Knowledge

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