King James Version

What Does Numbers 33:35 Mean?

Numbers 33:35 in the King James Version says “And they departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Eziongaber.” — study this verse from Numbers chapter 33 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And they departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Eziongaber.”

Numbers 33:35 · KJV

Context

33

And they went from Horhagidgad, and pitched in Jotbathah.

34

And they removed from Jotbathah, and encamped at Ebronah.

35

And they departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Eziongaber.

36

And they removed from Eziongaber, and pitched in the wilderness of Zin, which is Kadesh.

37

And they removed from Kadesh, and pitched in mount Hor, in the edge of the land of Edom.

Read Numbers 33 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Departed from Ebronah, and encamped at Ezion-gaber—עֶצְיוֹן גָּבֶר ('Eṣyōn Gāber, 'backbone of a man' or 'mighty tree'). This major port city at the northern tip of the Gulf of Aqaba (modern Eilat region) was later developed by Solomon (1 Kings 9:26). Its strategic location connected Israel to Red Sea maritime trade.

The mention of Ezion-gaber signals Israel's southernmost penetration during the wandering—they circumnavigated Edom's territory to approach Moab from the east. This station represents both geographic extremity and divine faithfulness in bringing them full circle back toward Canaan after decades of discipline.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Ezion-gaber sat at a crucial crossroads of ancient trade routes. Solomon's exploitation of this port centuries later (1 Kings 9:26-28) demonstrates the enduring strategic value of locations Israel passed through during the Exodus. Archaeological excavations have identified the site with Tell el-Kheleifeh.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's guidance sometimes lead us to geographic or spiritual 'extremes' before bringing us to our destination?
  2. What does Ezion-gaber's later commercial importance suggest about God's long-term purposes in Israel's wandering route?

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

מֵֽעַבְרֹנָ֑ה2 of 5

“from Ebronah”

H5684

ebronah, place in the desert

וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ3 of 5

“and encamped”

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

בְּעֶצְיֹ֥ן4 of 5
H0
גָּֽבֶר׃5 of 5

“at Eziongaber”

H6100

etsjon-geber, a place on the red sea

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 33:35 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 33:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 2:81 Kings 22:481 Kings 9:26Numbers 14:252 Chronicles 20:36

Places in This Verse

AbronahCampsite · Modern: Aqaba · 29.53°N, 35.00°E2 verses across 1 book
Ezion-geberIsland · Modern: Jezirat Faraun · 29.46°N, 34.86°E7 verses across 4 books
View all places in Numbers 33 →

Test Your Knowledge

Numbers 33 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterNumbers Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Numbers 33 with CommentaryAll Numbers ChaptersComplete Numbers QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes