King James Version
What Does Numbers 33:41 Mean?
“And they departed from mount Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah.”
Numbers 33:41 · KJV
Context
39
And Aaron was an hundred and twenty and three years old when he died in mount Hor.
40
And king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel.
41
And they departed from mount Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah.
42
And they departed from Zalmonah, and pitched in Punon.
43
And they departed from Punon, and pitched in Oboth.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryDeparted from mount Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah—צַלְמֹנָה (Ṣalmōnāh, 'shade' or 'shady place'). After Aaron's death and the victory over Arad, Israel resumed the march. The move from Mount Hor (death site) to Zalmonah ('shade') may suggest divine comfort after bereavement—God provides shelter and relief.
The wilderness journey continued despite leadership loss. Aaron died, but Israel moved forward under Eleazar's priesthood. This illustrates God's greater faithfulness: His purposes transcend any individual leader. Paul would later write, 'I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase' (1 Corinthians 3:6). Ministers come and go; God's work endures.
The wilderness journey continued despite leadership loss. Aaron died, but Israel moved forward under Eleazar's priesthood. This illustrates God's greater faithfulness: His purposes transcend any individual leader. Paul would later write, 'I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase' (1 Corinthians 3:6). Ministers come and go; God's work endures.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The thirty-day mourning period for Aaron (20:29) had concluded, and Israel was now approaching Moab's borders. The transition from Mount Hor toward the plains of Moab (where the book of Numbers will conclude) shows geographical progression toward conquest.
Reflection Questions
- How does the place name 'Zalmonah' (shade) function as divine comfort after the grief of Aaron's death?
- What does Israel's continued march despite losing Aaron teach about the relationship between human leadership and God's unchanging purposes?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsוַיִּסְע֖וּ1 of 5
“And they departed”
H5265properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ4 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
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 33:41 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 33:41 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge