Topical Bible: Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim: A Camping Place of Israel

◄ Shittim: Also Called Abel-Shittim: A Camping Place of Israel ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Location:
Shittim, also known as Abel-Shittim, is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament as a camping place for the Israelites. The name "Shittim" is derived from the Hebrew word for "acacia trees," which were abundant in the area. This site is situated in the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. It served as the final encampment of the Israelites before they crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land.

Biblical References:
Shittim is first mentioned in the Book of Numbers as the place where the Israelites camped after their journey through the wilderness. Numbers 25:1 states, "While Israel was staying in Shittim, the men began to indulge in sexual immorality with the daughters of Moab." This event led to a significant transgression against God, as the Israelites were led into idolatry and immorality, resulting in a divine plague.

In Numbers 33:49 , the location is described in the context of the Israelites' journey: "They camped by the Jordan, from Beth-jeshimoth to Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab." This highlights Shittim as a key staging ground for the Israelites before their entry into Canaan.

The Book of Joshua also references Shittim as the starting point for the spies sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho. Joshua 2:1 records, "Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim, saying, 'Go, look over the land, especially Jericho.' So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there."

Historical and Theological Significance:
Shittim holds historical importance as the last encampment of the Israelites before their long-awaited entry into the Promised Land. It represents a place of both failure and preparation. The events at Shittim underscore the recurring theme of Israel's struggle with faithfulness to God amidst external temptations and internal weaknesses.

Theologically, Shittim serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of covenant faithfulness. The incident involving the Moabite women and the subsequent idolatry highlights the dangers of compromising with surrounding pagan cultures. It also illustrates God's justice and mercy, as the plague was halted through the zealous actions of Phinehas, as recorded in Numbers 25:7-8 .

Prophetic References:
Shittim is mentioned in the prophetic literature as well. In Joel 3:18 , a future restoration is prophesied: "And in that day the mountains will drip with sweet wine, and the hills will flow with milk; all the streams of Judah will run with water, and a spring will issue from the house of the LORD, watering the Valley of Shittim." This prophecy envisions a time of blessing and abundance, contrasting the earlier associations of sin and judgment.

Conclusion:
Shittim, or Abel-Shittim, stands as a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative. It is a place of both transgression and transition, marking the end of Israel's wilderness wanderings and the beginning of their conquest of Canaan. The lessons drawn from Shittim continue to resonate, emphasizing the need for vigilance in faith and the hope of divine restoration.