Topical Bible: Kadesh: Israel Encamps At

◄ Kadesh: Israel Encamps At ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Kadesh, often referred to as Kadesh-barnea, holds significant importance in biblical history as a major encampment site for the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. Located in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula, Kadesh served as a pivotal location for several key events in the narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Biblical References and Events:

1. The Spies Sent to Canaan:
Kadesh is notably mentioned in the context of the sending of the twelve spies into Canaan. In Numbers 13:26 , it is recorded, "They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole congregation of Israel at Kadesh in the Wilderness of Paran. There they reported to them and the whole assembly and showed them the fruit of the land." This event marked a turning point, as the negative report from ten of the spies led to the Israelites' lack of faith and subsequent 40 years of wandering in the wilderness.

2. Rebellion and Judgment:
The rebellion of the Israelites at Kadesh, following the spies' report, resulted in God's judgment. Numbers 14:29-30 states, "In this wilderness your bodies will fall—all who were numbered in the census, everyone twenty years of age or older—because you have grumbled against Me. Not one of you will enter the land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home, except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun."

3. Miriam's Death:
Kadesh is also the site of Miriam's death and burial. Numbers 20:1 records, "In the first month, the whole congregation of Israel entered the Wilderness of Zin, and the people stayed at Kadesh. There Miriam died and was buried."

4. Moses Strikes the Rock:
Another significant event at Kadesh is Moses striking the rock to bring forth water. Numbers 20:11-12 recounts, "Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with his staff, so that a great amount of water gushed out, and the congregation and their livestock were able to drink. But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 'Because you did not trust Me to show My holiness in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.'" This act of disobedience resulted in Moses and Aaron being denied entry into the Promised Land.

5. Edom's Refusal:
From Kadesh, Moses sent messengers to the king of Edom requesting passage through his land, which was denied. Numbers 20:14-21 details this encounter, highlighting the continued challenges faced by the Israelites during their journey.

Geographical and Historical Context:

Kadesh-barnea is traditionally identified with the modern site of Ain el-Qudeirat in the northeastern Sinai. It served as a strategic location for the Israelites, providing a base for their operations and a place of assembly. The name "Kadesh" itself means "holy" or "sacred," reflecting its significance in the biblical narrative.

Theological Significance:

Kadesh represents a place of testing, decision, and divine judgment. It is a reminder of the consequences of unbelief and disobedience, as well as the faithfulness of God to His promises despite human failure. The events at Kadesh underscore the importance of trust in God's provision and guidance, serving as a lesson for future generations.

Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 12:16
And afterward the people removed from Hazeroth, and pitched in the wilderness of Paran.
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Numbers 13:26
And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, to the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word to them, and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land.
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Numbers 20:1
Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people stayed in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there.
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