King James Version
What Does Numbers 33:43 Mean?
“And they departed from Punon, and pitched in Oboth.”
Numbers 33:43 · KJV
Context
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.
44
And they departed from Oboth, and pitched in Ijeabarim, in the border of Moab. Ijeabarim: or, heaps of Abarim
45
And they departed from Iim, and pitched in Dibongad.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThey departed from Punon, and pitched in Oboth (וַיִּסְעוּ מִפֻּנֹן וַיַּחֲנוּ בְּאֹבֹת)—The journey from Punon (perhaps meaning "darkness" or "perplexity") to Oboth ("water-skins" or "spiritists") marks a transition toward the final approach to Canaan. The Hebrew verb nasa (נָסַע, "to pull up," "to journey") appears throughout this itinerary, emphasizing the constant forward movement of God's people despite forty years of wilderness discipline.
This stage represents one of the final wilderness encampments before Israel reaches Moab's plains. The progression from copper mines at Punon (where brazen serpent judgment occurred, Numbers 21:4-9) to Oboth signals movement from judgment to the threshold of promise. Each chanah (חָנָה, "pitched," "encamped") was temporary, reminding Israel that earth is not their permanent dwelling—a theme Hebrews 11:13-16 applies to all believers as "strangers and pilgrims."
This stage represents one of the final wilderness encampments before Israel reaches Moab's plains. The progression from copper mines at Punon (where brazen serpent judgment occurred, Numbers 21:4-9) to Oboth signals movement from judgment to the threshold of promise. Each chanah (חָנָה, "pitched," "encamped") was temporary, reminding Israel that earth is not their permanent dwelling—a theme Hebrews 11:13-16 applies to all believers as "strangers and pilgrims."
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
This occurred during the 40th year of wilderness wandering (circa 1406 BC), as Israel circled Edom and approached Moab from the east. Oboth's location is uncertain but likely in the Arabah valley south of the Dead Sea. Moses recorded this detailed itinerary (v. 2) as a permanent memorial of God's faithfulness through every stage of Israel's journey.
Reflection Questions
- How do the repeated cycles of "departed" and "pitched" in your spiritual journey remind you that this world is not your final home?
- What significance do you see in God preserving the memory of every stage of Israel's wandering, including the seemingly insignificant stops?
- How does moving from judgment (Punon/brazen serpent) toward promise (Canaan) mirror the Christian's journey from conversion to glorification?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 4 wordsוַיִּסְע֖וּ1 of 4
“And they departed”
H5265properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ3 of 4
“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 33:43 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 33:43 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge