“And they removed from Etham, and turned again unto Pihahiroth, which is before Baalzephon: and they pitched before Migdol.”
Context: Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and is part of the Pentateuch, traditionally attributed to Moses. It primarily recounts the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land. Numbers 33 provides a detailed account of the Israelites’ journey, listing the various places where they camped during their wilderness wanderings.
Etham: The verse begins by mentioning Etham, which was one of the initial stopping points for the Israelites after leaving Egypt. It is believed to have been located in the northeastern part of the Nile Delta region. Etham marked the starting point of their journey towards the Promised Land.
Pihahiroth: The Israelites turned back from Etham and returned to Pihahiroth. Pihahiroth is thought to have been located near the eastern shore of the Red Sea, specifically in the region of the Gulf of Suez. It was at Pihahiroth that the Israelites found themselves trapped between the sea and Pharaoh’s pursuing army, leading to the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea.
Baalzephon: Pihahiroth is described as being “before Baalzephon.” The exact location of Baalzephon is uncertain, but it is generally believed to have been near the eastern shore of the Gulf of Suez, possibly close to modern-day Jebel ‘Ataqah. Baalzephon served as a geographical reference point in the Israelites’ journey.
Migdol: After turning again to Pihahiroth, the Israelites pitched their camp before Migdol. The location of Migdol is also uncertain, but it is generally associated with a prominent fortress or watchtower. It could have been situated somewhere in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula.
The significance of Numbers 33:7 lies in its role as a historical account of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It highlights the specific locations where the Israelites encamped along their route. This verse demonstrates the meticulous record-keeping of their journey, emphasizing that God guided the Israelites step by step and preserved their history.
Overall, Numbers 33:7 helps us understand the geography and chronology of the Israelites’ wilderness wanderings and provides insights into the journey that ultimately led them to the Promised Land.
