Etymology and Meaning:
The name "Nahal'iel" is derived from Hebrew, meaning "Valley of God" or "Torrent of God." The term "nahal" refers to a valley or a wadi, which is a dry riverbed that contains water only during times of heavy rain. The suffix "iel" is a reference to God, indicating a divine association with the location.

Biblical References:
Nahal'iel is mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. It is one of the stations in the Israelites' journey through the wilderness as they traveled from Egypt to the Promised Land. The reference to Nahal'iel is found in Numbers 21:19: "From Mattanah they went to Nahaliel, and from Nahaliel to Bamoth" .

Historical and Geographical Context:
Nahal'iel is situated in the region east of the Jordan River, within the territory that the Israelites traversed during their 40-year sojourn in the wilderness. The exact location of Nahal'iel is not definitively known today, but it is believed to be in the area of modern-day Jordan. The journey from Mattanah to Nahal'iel and then to Bamoth indicates a progression through the arid and rugged terrain that characterized the Israelites' wilderness wanderings.

Theological Significance:
The mention of Nahal'iel in the biblical narrative underscores the theme of divine guidance and provision throughout the Israelites' journey. Each station, including Nahal'iel, represents a step in the fulfillment of God's promise to lead His people to the land He had sworn to give to their ancestors. The name itself, "Valley of God," may symbolize the presence and sustenance of God even in the desolate and challenging environments the Israelites encountered.

Related Biblical Themes:
Nahal'iel is part of a broader narrative that highlights the faithfulness of God in guiding His people through the wilderness. This journey is marked by a series of encampments, each with its own significance and challenges. The Israelites' reliance on God's direction and provision is a recurring theme throughout the Pentateuch, emphasizing the importance of trust and obedience to God's commands.

Cross-References:
· Numbers 21:18-20: This passage provides the context for the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, including their encampment at Nahal'iel.
· Deuteronomy 2:7: This verse reflects on God's care for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness, a period that includes their time at Nahal'iel.

Cultural and Spiritual Insights:
For the ancient Israelites, places like Nahal'iel were not merely geographical locations but were imbued with spiritual significance. They served as reminders of God's ongoing relationship with His people and His ability to provide for them in the most unlikely of circumstances. The journey through the wilderness, with its various stations, is often seen as a metaphor for the spiritual journey of faith, characterized by trials, growth, and reliance on divine guidance.Nahal'iel (1 Occurrence)

Numbers 21:19
and from Mattanah to Nahaliel; and from Nahaliel to Bamoth;
(See RSV)

Nahal'iel (1 Occurrence)
Nahal'iel. Nahaliel, Nahal'iel. Nahallal . Multi-Version Concordance
Nahal'iel (1 Occurrence). Numbers 21:19 and from Mattanah to ...
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Nahaliel (1 Occurrence)

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Nahallal (1 Occurrence)

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