Topical Encyclopedia Meribah-Kadesh is a significant location in the biblical narrative, particularly in the journey of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. The name "Meribah" means "quarreling" or "contention," and "Kadesh" refers to the region of Kadesh-Barnea, a key site in the desert wanderings of the Israelites.Biblical References: 1. Numbers 20:1-13: The primary account of Meribah-Kadesh is found in this passage. The Israelites, having journeyed from Egypt, arrive at Kadesh in the Desert of Zin. Here, they face a severe lack of water, leading to a confrontation between the people and Moses. The people complain against Moses and Aaron, lamenting their situation and expressing a desire to have died in Egypt or the wilderness rather than face thirst and death in the desert. In response to the people's grumbling, Moses and Aaron seek the LORD's guidance. The LORD instructs Moses to take the staff and speak to the rock before the assembly, promising that it will yield water. However, in a moment of frustration, Moses strikes the rock twice with his staff instead of speaking to it as commanded. Water gushes forth, providing for the community and their livestock. The LORD, however, is displeased with Moses and Aaron for not upholding His holiness before the Israelites. As a result, He declares that neither Moses nor Aaron will lead the assembly into the Promised Land. This incident is memorialized in the name "Meribah," reflecting the contention and the testing of the LORD by the Israelites. Berean Standard Bible quote: "But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 'Because you did not trust Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.' These were the waters of Meribah, where the Israelites quarreled with the LORD, and He showed Himself holy among them." (Numbers 20:12-13) 2. Deuteronomy 32:51: This verse references the incident at Meribah-Kadesh as a reason for Moses not entering the Promised Land. It highlights the breach of faith by Moses and Aaron in the presence of the Israelites. 3. Psalm 106:32-33: The psalmist recounts the incident at Meribah, emphasizing the provocation of Moses by the people and his rash words, which led to his downfall. Theological Significance: Meribah-Kadesh serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of obedience and faith in God's instructions. The incident underscores the gravity of leadership and the responsibility to honor God before the people. Moses, despite his faithful service, faces severe consequences for his actions, illustrating the principle that leaders are held to a high standard of accountability. The event also reflects the recurring theme of Israel's testing and rebellion against God during their wilderness journey. It highlights the human tendency to doubt and complain in times of trial, contrasting with God's faithfulness and provision. Geographical Context: Kadesh-Barnea, where Meribah-Kadesh is located, is situated in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula. It served as a significant encampment for the Israelites and a launching point for their eventual entry into the Promised Land. The region's arid conditions and scarcity of water made it a challenging environment, contributing to the tensions recorded in the biblical narrative. Legacy: Meribah-Kadesh remains a symbol of both human frailty and divine holiness. It is a testament to the challenges of faith and leadership, as well as the enduring mercy and provision of God amidst human shortcomings. Strong's Hebrew 4809. Meribah -- "place of strife," two places in the desert... Word Origin from rib Definition "place of strife," two places in the desert NASB Word Usage Meribah (8), Meribah-kadesh* (1), Meribath-kadesh* (2). Meribah. ... /hebrew/4809.htm - 6k 6946. Qadesh -- "sacred," a place in the desert Library The Waters of Meribah Thesaurus Meribahkadesh (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Meribahkadesh (1 Occurrence). Deuteronomy 32:51 Because ye trespassed against me among the children of ... /m/meribahkadesh.htm - 6k Meribah-kadesh (3 Occurrences) Meribah (11 Occurrences) Mer'ibah (8 Occurrences) Torrent (49 Occurrences) Massah (5 Occurrences) Meribath (3 Occurrences) Sanctified (105 Occurrences) Wanderings (7 Occurrences) Resources What is the significance of Meribah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was Moses not allowed to enter the Promised Land? | GotQuestions.org Why are the circumstances of the death of Moses so mysterious? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Meribah-kadesh (3 Occurrences)Deuteronomy 32:51 Ezekiel 47:19 Ezekiel 48:28 Subtopics Related Terms Meribath-kadesh (4 Occurrences) Meribath-ka'desh (2 Occurrences) Mer'i-bath-ka'desh (1 Occurrence) Meribah-kadesh (3 Occurrences) |
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