Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: Rimmonperez is mentioned in the Book of Numbers as one of the stations where the Israelites camped during their wilderness journey. The specific reference is found in Numbers 33:19-20: "They set out from Rithmah and camped at Rimmon-perez. They set out from Rimmon-perez and camped at Libnah." Etymology and Meaning: The name "Rimmonperez" is a compound of two Hebrew words: "Rimmon," which can mean "pomegranate" or refer to a deity, and "Perez," meaning "breach" or "division." The combination of these terms could suggest a place associated with abundance or a significant event, though the exact reason for the name is not detailed in the biblical text. Historical and Geographical Context: Rimmonperez is one of the many locations listed in the itinerary of the Israelites' 40-year journey through the desert after their exodus from Egypt. The precise location of Rimmonperez is not known today, and it is not mentioned outside of the wilderness itinerary in Numbers 33. The list of stations in Numbers 33 serves as a historical record of the Israelites' travels and God's guidance during their time in the wilderness. Theological Significance: The mention of Rimmonperez, like other stations in the wilderness journey, underscores the faithfulness of God in leading the Israelites through a challenging and transformative period. Each location represents a step in the journey toward the Promised Land, highlighting themes of trust, obedience, and divine provision. The wilderness journey is a significant period in Israel's history, shaping their identity as God's chosen people and teaching them reliance on His guidance and sustenance. Related Biblical Themes: · Divine Guidance: The journey through the wilderness, including the stop at Rimmonperez, illustrates God's continual guidance of His people, as He led them with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21-22). · Testing and Faith: The wilderness period was a time of testing for the Israelites, where their faith and obedience were continually challenged and refined (Deuteronomy 8:2-3). · Provision and Sustenance: Despite the harsh conditions of the desert, God provided for the Israelites' needs, supplying manna, quail, and water (Exodus 16-17). Cross-References: · Numbers 33: The chapter provides a detailed list of the stages of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the plains of Moab, including the stop at Rimmonperez. · Exodus 13-17: These chapters describe the early part of the Israelites' journey, including God's miraculous provisions and guidance. Rimmonperez, though briefly mentioned, is part of the larger narrative of God's covenantal relationship with Israel, demonstrating His faithfulness and the unfolding of His redemptive plan through history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia RIMMON-PEREZrim-mon-pe'-rez (rimmon perets; the King James Version Rimmon-parez): A desert camp of the Israelites (Numbers 33:19 f), unidentified. Gesenius translates rimmon as "pomegranate," the place deriving its name from the abundance of pomegranates. But Conder derives it from ramam, "to be high," and translates it "cloven height." Thesaurus Rimmonperez/r/rimmonperez.htm - 6k Rimmon-parez (2 Occurrences) Rimmon-perez (2 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |