Numbers 21:11
New International Version
Then they set out from Oboth and camped in Iye Abarim, in the wilderness that faces Moab toward the sunrise.

New Living Translation
Then they went on to Iye-abarim, in the wilderness on the eastern border of Moab.

English Standard Version
And they set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness that is opposite Moab, toward the sunrise.

Berean Standard Bible
They journeyed from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim in the wilderness opposite Moab to the east.

Berean Literal Bible
And they set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness that is east of Moab toward the sunrise.

King James Bible
And they journeyed from Oboth, and pitched at Ijeabarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrising.

New King James Version
And they journeyed from Oboth and camped at Ije Abarim, in the wilderness which is east of Moab, toward the sunrise.

New American Standard Bible
Then they journeyed from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness which is opposite Moab, to the east.

NASB 1995
They journeyed from Oboth and camped at Iyeabarim, in the wilderness which is opposite Moab, to the east.

NASB 1977
And they journeyed from Oboth, and camped at Iyeabarim, in the wilderness which is opposite Moab, to the east.

Legacy Standard Bible
They then set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness which is opposite Moab, east toward the sunrise.

Amplified Bible
They journeyed on from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness facing Moab, toward the sunrise.

Berean Annotated Bible
They journeyed from Oboth (waterskins) and camped at Iye-abarim (ruins of Abarim) in the wilderness opposite Moab (of his father) to the east.

Christian Standard Bible
They set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim in the wilderness that borders Moab on the east.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
They set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim in the wilderness that borders Moab on the east.

American Standard Version
And they journeyed from Oboth, and encamped at Iyeabarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrising.

Contemporary English Version
then at Iye-Abarim in the desert east of Moab,

English Revised Version
And they journeyed from Oboth, and pitched at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrising.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Next they moved from Oboth and set up camp at Iye Abarim in the desert west of Moab.

Good News Translation
After leaving that place, they camped at the ruins of Abarim in the wilderness east of Moabite territory.

International Standard Version
Then they traveled from Oboth and encamped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness that is in the vicinity of Moab's eastern border.

NET Bible
Then they traveled on from Oboth and camped at Iye Abarim, in the wilderness that is before Moab, on the eastern side.

New Heart English Bible
They traveled from Oboth, and camped at Iyeabarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrise.

Webster's Bible Translation
And they journeyed from Oboth, and pitched at Ije-abarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, towards the sun-rising.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
They journeyed from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim in the wilderness opposite Moab to the east.

World English Bible
They traveled from Oboth, and encamped at Iyeabarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrise.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
And they journey from Oboth and encamp in Ije-Abarim, in the wilderness that [is] on the front of Moab, at the rising of the sun.

Berean Literal Bible
And they set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness that is east of Moab toward the sunrise.

Young's Literal Translation
And they journey from Oboth, and encamp in Ije-Abarim, in the wilderness that is on the front of Moab, at the rising of the sun.

Smith's Literal Translation
And they will remove from Oboth and will encamp in Ije-Abarim, in the desert which is upon the face of Moab, from the rising of the sun.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And departing thence they pitched their tents in Jeabarim, in the wilderness, that faceth Moab toward the east.

Catholic Public Domain Version
Having departed from there, they pitched their tents at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness, which looks out toward Moab, opposite the eastern region.

New American Bible
Then they moved on from Oboth and encamped in Iye-abarim in the wilderness facing Moab on the east.

New Revised Standard Version
They set out from Oboth, and camped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness bordering Moab toward the sunrise.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
And they journeyed from Aboth, and encamped at the Een di Ebraye (the spring of the Hebrews), in the wilderness which is before Moab, to the east toward the sunrise.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And they picked up from Aboth and camped at Ayna d'Ebraye “Spring of the Hebrews” in the wilderness that is next to Moab from the East, from the dawning of the sun.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
And they journeyed from Oboth, and pitched at Ije-abarim, in the wilderness which is in front of Moab, toward the sun-rising.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And having departed from Oboth, they encamped in Achalgai, on the farther side in the wilderness, which is opposite Moab, toward the east.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Journey to Moab
10Then the Israelites set out and camped at Oboth. 11They journeyed from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim in the wilderness opposite Moab to the east. 12From there they set out and camped in the Valley of Zered.…

Cross References
They journeyed from Oboth

Numbers 33:43
They set out from Punon and camped at Oboth.

Deuteronomy 2:8
So we passed by our brothers, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. We turned away from the Arabah road, which comes up from Elath and Ezion-geber, and traveled along the road of the Wilderness of Moab.

Deuteronomy 2:13
“Now arise and cross over the Brook of Zered.” So we crossed over the Brook of Zered.
and camped at Iye-abarim

Numbers 33:44
They set out from Oboth and camped at Iye-abarim on the border of Moab.

Deuteronomy 2:18-19
“Today you are going to cross the border of Moab at Ar. / But when you get close to the Ammonites, do not harass them or provoke them, for I will not give you any of the land of the Ammonites. I have given it to the descendants of Lot as their possession.”

Numbers 22:1
Then the Israelites traveled on and camped in the plains of Moab near the Jordan, across from Jericho.
in the wilderness opposite Moab

Deuteronomy 4:46
while they were in the valley across the Jordan facing Beth-peor in the land of Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon and was defeated by Moses and the Israelites after they had come out of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 29:1
These are the words of the covenant that the LORD commanded Moses to make with the Israelites in the land of Moab, in addition to the covenant He had made with them at Horeb.

Deuteronomy 34:1
Then Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which faces Jericho. And the LORD showed him the whole land—from Gilead as far as Dan,
to the east.

Deuteronomy 4:47-49
They took possession of the land belonging to Sihon and to Og king of Bashan—the two Amorite kings across the Jordan to the east— / extending from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley as far as Mount Siyon (that is, Hermon), / including all the Arabah on the east side of the Jordan and as far as the Sea of the Arabah, below the slopes of Pisgah.

Joshua 13:32
These were the portions Moses had given them on the plains of Moab beyond the Jordan, east of Jericho.

Numbers 32:33
So Moses gave to the Gadites, to the Reubenites, and to the half-tribe of Manasseh son of Joseph the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan—the land including its cities and the territory surrounding them.
Deuteronomy 2:9
Then the LORD said to me, “Do not harass the Moabites or provoke them to war, for I will not give you any of their land, because I have given Ar to the descendants of Lot as their possession.”

Judges 11:18
Then Israel traveled through the wilderness and bypassed the lands of Edom and Moab. They came to the east side of the land of Moab and camped on the other side of the Arnon. But they did not enter the territory of Moab, since the Arnon was its border.

Isaiah 15:1
This is the burden against Moab: Ar in Moab is ruined, destroyed in a night! Kir in Moab is devastated, destroyed in a night!

Isaiah 16:2
Like fluttering birds pushed out of the nest, so are the daughters of Moab at the fords of the Arnon:


Treasury of Scripture

And they journeyed from Oboth, and pitched at Ijeabarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sun rise.

Oboth.

Jump to Previous
Abarim Camped Desert East Encamped Ijeabarim Ije-Abarim Iye-Abarim Journey Journeyed Journeying Moab Oboth Opposite Pitched Removed Rising Sun Sunrise Sunrising Sun-Rising Tents Towards Waste Wilderness
Jump to Next
Abarim Camped Desert East Encamped Ijeabarim Ije-Abarim Iye-Abarim Journey Journeyed Journeying Moab Oboth Opposite Pitched Removed Rising Sun Sunrise Sunrising Sun-Rising Tents Towards Waste Wilderness
Numbers 21
1. Israel destroys the Canaanites at Hormah
4. The people murmuring are plagued with fiery serpents
7. They repenting are healed by a bronze serpent
10. Various journeys of the Israelites
21. Sihon is overcome
33. And Og












They journeyed from Oboth
The Israelites' journey from Oboth marks a continuation of their wilderness wanderings. Oboth is mentioned as a station in the wilderness, though its exact location is uncertain. This movement signifies the ongoing fulfillment of God's promise to lead the Israelites to the Promised Land, despite their previous disobedience and the resulting 40-year delay. The journey from Oboth reflects the transient nature of the Israelites' existence during this period, emphasizing their reliance on God's guidance.

and camped at Iye-abarim
Iye-abarim, meaning "ruins of the regions beyond," is a location on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This site is significant as it represents a step closer to entering Canaan. The name suggests a place of desolation, possibly indicating the challenges and hardships faced by the Israelites. The encampment here is part of the broader narrative of the Israelites' preparation to enter the Promised Land, highlighting themes of perseverance and faith.

in the wilderness opposite Moab
The wilderness opposite Moab situates the Israelites near the territory of the Moabites, descendants of Lot. This geographical detail is important as it sets the stage for future interactions between Israel and Moab, including the story of Balaam and Balak in Numbers 22-24. The proximity to Moab also underscores the Israelites' position on the brink of entering the land God promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

to the east
The mention of "to the east" provides a directional context, indicating the Israelites' location relative to Moab. This detail is crucial for understanding the strategic movements of the Israelites as they approach the Promised Land. The eastward position also aligns with the biblical theme of eastward movement often symbolizing exile or separation from God's presence, as seen in Genesis with Adam and Eve's expulsion from Eden. However, in this context, it signifies the Israelites' approach to the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Oboth
A location where the Israelites camped during their wilderness journey. It represents a stage in their long journey to the Promised Land.

2. Iye-abarim
Another campsite for the Israelites, located in the wilderness. The name suggests "ruins of the regions beyond," indicating a place of transition.

3. Wilderness
The desert area where the Israelites wandered for 40 years. It symbolizes both physical and spiritual testing and growth.

4. Moab
A neighboring nation to Israel, often in conflict with them. Moab's proximity here indicates the Israelites' approach to the Promised Land.

5. Sunrise
Symbolically represents new beginnings and hope, as the Israelites move closer to their destination.
Teaching Points
Journey of Faith
Just as the Israelites moved from place to place, our spiritual journey involves transitions and growth. Trust in God's guidance through each stage.

Facing Challenges
The wilderness represents trials. Embrace challenges as opportunities for spiritual development and reliance on God.

Hope and New Beginnings
The direction toward the sunrise symbolizes hope. In our lives, look for God's new mercies and beginnings each day.

Obedience to God's Direction
The Israelites' journey was directed by God. Seek to follow God's leading in your life, even when the path is unclear.

Community in Transition
The Israelites traveled as a community. Value and support your faith community during times of change and uncertainty.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Numbers 21:11?

2. What significance does Numbers 21:11 hold in Israel's journey toward the Promised Land?

3. How does Numbers 21:11 demonstrate God's guidance in Israel's wilderness travels?

4. Connect Numbers 21:11 with other instances of God's provision in the wilderness.

5. How can we trust God's direction in our life's journey, as seen here?

6. What lessons from Numbers 21:11 can we apply to our spiritual walk today?

7. What is the significance of Numbers 21:11 in the Israelites' journey?

8. How does Numbers 21:11 reflect God's guidance and provision?

9. What archaeological evidence supports the locations mentioned in Numbers 21:11?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Numbers 21?

11. Who were Moab and Ammon in biblical history?

12. Numbers 21:33-35 - How credible is the account of King Og's defeat, given references to his giant stature elsewhere (Deuteronomy 3:11) and the lack of archaeological evidence?

13. In Psalm 135:10-11, God is said to have struck down nations (including Sihon and Og)--why is there limited archaeological evidence of such direct divine intervention?

14. In 1 Chronicles 8:8, how historically or archaeologically verifiable is the claim that Shaharaim fathered children in Moab?
What Does Numbers 21:11 Mean
They journeyed from Oboth

• Oboth was one of many staging points on Israel’s wilderness trek, showing the Lord’s orderly guidance day by day (Numbers 33:43–44).

• Every departure underscores trust: the people left a known place for the next step God revealed, echoing earlier moves such as “the Israelites set out from Rameses” (Numbers 33:3).

• The text reminds us that obedience is often measured in willingness to keep moving (Hebrews 11:8–9).


and camped at Iye-abarim

• “Camped” tells us God provided pauses, not just progress—times to regroup, worship, and receive fresh instruction (Exodus 17:1; Numbers 10:12).

• Iye-abarim means “ruins of the regions,” hinting at a stark setting. Even in desolation, the Lord prepared a place, just as He later would in “the plains of Moab by the Jordan” (Numbers 22:1).

• Temporary camps remind believers that our permanence is with the Lord, not in earthly tents (2 Corinthians 5:1).


in the wilderness opposite Moab

• The location signals a turning point: Israel is now alongside the territory of Moab, soon to face Balak and Balaam (Numbers 22–24).

• God had earlier told Israel, “Do not harass Moab” (Deuteronomy 2:9), so this campsite demonstrates obedience to boundaries God set with neighboring nations.

• Being “opposite” places Israel in plain view, illustrating that God’s people can reside near those who don’t share their covenant yet remain distinct (Philippians 2:15).


to the east

• East of Moab positions Israel on the far side of the Dead Sea, nearing the Jordan’s threshold to Canaan (Joshua 3:1).

• Facing east also recalls a pattern: Lot looked “toward the east” (Genesis 13:11), and later tribes will settle on the eastern side (Joshua 13:8).

• Direction matters in Scripture; here it signals expectancy—Israel is poised for entry but still waiting on God’s exact timing (Deuteronomy 3:18–20).


summary

Numbers 21:11 is more than a travel note. Each phrase traces steady obedience, God-provided rest, respectful boundaries with neighbors, and a strategic position on the cusp of promise. The verse invites believers to trust God’s step-by-step leading, rest in His appointed pauses, honor the limits He sets, and live with forward-looking hope just outside the fulfillment of all He has prepared.

(11) At Ije-abarim.--This word seems to denote the heaps (or, ruins) of passages or of coast or river lands--i.e., of districts bordering upon the sea or a river. It is called Iim or Iyim simply in Numbers 33:45.

Verse 11. - And pitched at Ije-abarim. Ije (עִיִיּ), or Ijm (עִיִּים), as it is called in chapter Numbers 33:45, signifies "heaps" or "ruins." Abarim is a word of somewhat doubtful meaning, best rendered "ridges" or "ranges." It was apparently applied to the whole of Peraea in later times (cf. Jeremiah 22:20, "passages"), but in the Pentateuch is confined elsewhere to the ranges facing Jericho. These "ruinous heaps of the ranges" lay to the east of Moab, along the desert side of which Israel was now marching, still going northwards: they cannot-be identified.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
They journeyed
וַיִּסְע֖וּ (way·yis·‘ū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 5265: To pull up, the tent-pins, start on a, journey

from Oboth
מֵאֹבֹ֑ת (mê·’ō·ḇōṯ)
Preposition-m | Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 88: Oboth -- 'water-skins', a place in Edom

and camped
וַֽיַּחֲנ֞וּ (way·ya·ḥă·nū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 2583: To incline, to decline, to pitch a, tent, gen, to encamp

at Iye-abarim
הָֽעֲבָרִ֗ים (hā·‘ă·ḇā·rîm)
Preposition, Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5863: Iye-abarim -- a place on the eastern border of Moab, also a city in southern Judah

in the wilderness
בַּמִּדְבָּר֙ (bam·miḏ·bār)
Pronoun - relative
Strong's 4057: A pasture, a desert, speech

opposite
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

Moab
מוֹאָ֔ב (mō·w·’āḇ)
Noun - proper - feminine singular
Strong's 4124: Moab -- a son of Lot,also his descendants and the territory where they settled

to the east.
מִמִּזְרַ֖ח (mim·miz·raḥ)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4217: Place of sunrise, the east


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OT Law: Numbers 21:11 They traveled from Oboth and encamped at (Nu Num.)
Numbers 21:10
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