Biblical Context:
The command to leave Horeb is a significant event in the narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. Horeb, often identified with Mount Sinai, is the location where God delivered the Ten Commandments to Moses and established a covenant with the Israelites. This event is recorded in the Book of Deuteronomy, which serves as a reiteration and expansion of the laws given at Sinai, as well as a historical recounting of Israel's journey.

Scriptural Reference:
The primary scriptural reference for God's command to leave Horeb is found in Deuteronomy 1:6-8 :

"The LORD our God said to us at Horeb: 'You have stayed at this mountain long enough. Resume your journey and go to the hill country of the Amorites and to all their neighbors in the Arabah, in the hill country, in the foothills, in the Negev, and along the coast—to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon as far as the great river, the Euphrates. See, I have set the land before you. Enter and possess the land that the LORD swore He would give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to their descendants after them.'"

Theological Significance:
The command to leave Horeb marks a pivotal transition from a period of preparation and instruction to one of action and fulfillment of God's promises. It underscores the importance of obedience to God's directives and the necessity of faith in His promises. The Israelites had received the law and the covenant at Horeb, and now they were called to move forward in faith to claim the inheritance promised to their forefathers.

Lessons in Faith and Obedience:
1. Divine Timing: The command highlights the importance of recognizing and responding to God's timing. The Israelites had spent sufficient time at Horeb, and it was now time to advance. This teaches believers the value of discerning God's timing in their own lives and being ready to act when He calls.

2. Trust in God's Promises: The directive to enter and possess the land is rooted in the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the assurance that He will fulfill His promises. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's word and His plans for their lives.

3. Courage to Move Forward: Leaving Horeb required the Israelites to step out of their comfort zone and face the challenges of conquering new territories. This act of obedience required courage and reliance on God's strength. Similarly, believers are called to step out in faith, trusting that God will equip and guide them in their endeavors.

Historical and Cultural Context:
Horeb, or Sinai, is traditionally located in the Sinai Peninsula, though its exact location remains a subject of debate among scholars. The period at Horeb was crucial for the formation of Israel's identity as God's chosen people, as they received the law and instructions for worship and community life. The command to leave Horeb and journey towards the Promised Land represents a shift from a nomadic existence to the establishment of a nation in a land of their own.

Application for Today:
The account of God's command to leave Horeb serves as an enduring lesson for believers in the importance of heeding God's call to move forward in faith. It challenges individuals to leave behind complacency and to pursue the purposes God has set before them, trusting in His guidance and provision.