Overview:
Shapher is a location mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers. It is noted as one of the stations where the Israelites camped during their wilderness journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The name "Shapher" is derived from a Hebrew root meaning "beauty" or "brightness," which may suggest a location of notable appearance or significance.

Biblical Reference:
The primary reference to Shapher is found in the Book of Numbers, which details the stages of the Israelites' journey:

· Numbers 33:23-24 : "They set out from Kehelathah and camped at Mount Shapher. They set out from Mount Shapher and camped at Haradah."

This passage is part of a larger itinerary that lists the various encampments of the Israelites as they traveled through the wilderness. The mention of Mount Shapher indicates that it was a mountainous region, although specific details about its geographical location or features are not provided in the biblical text.

Historical and Geographical Context:
The exact location of Mount Shapher is not known today, and it is not identified with any modern geographical site. The journey of the Israelites, as recorded in Numbers 33, includes many locations that are difficult to pinpoint with certainty due to the passage of time and changes in the landscape. However, the mention of a "mount" suggests a place of elevation, which may have provided a strategic or practical advantage for the Israelites during their travels.

Theological Significance:
The journey of the Israelites through the wilderness, including their encampment at Mount Shapher, is significant in the biblical narrative as it represents a period of testing, reliance on God, and preparation for entering the Promised Land. Each location mentioned in the itinerary serves as a reminder of God's guidance and provision for His people during their 40-year sojourn.

The encampments, including Shapher, are part of the broader theme of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises. The journey from Egypt to Canaan is a testament to God's covenant with Israel and His commitment to lead them to a land flowing with milk and honey.

Symbolic Interpretation:
In a symbolic sense, Mount Shapher, like other locations in the wilderness journey, can be seen as a representation of the spiritual journey of believers. The wilderness experience is often interpreted as a time of spiritual growth, testing, and reliance on God's provision. The beauty or brightness implied by the name "Shapher" may symbolize moments of clarity, revelation, or divine encounter amidst the challenges of the journey.

Conclusion:
While the specific details about Mount Shapher remain elusive, its inclusion in the biblical narrative underscores the importance of each step in the Israelites' journey. It serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual journey of God's people and the enduring lessons of faith and trust in God's promises.Shapher

(brightness), Mount, (Numbers 33:23) the name of a desert station where the Israelites encamped during the wanderings in the wilderness.

Brightness, one of the stations where Israel encamped in the wilderness (Numbers 33:23, 24). SHAPHER

sha'-fer.

See SHEPHER.

Shapher (2 Occurrences)
... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SHAPHER. sha'-fer. See SHEPHER. ...Shapher (2 Occurrences).
Numbers 33:23 And they went from Kehelathah, and pitched in mount Shapher. ...
/s/shapher.htm - 7k

Shaphat (8 Occurrences)

/s/shaphat.htm - 10k

Removed (294 Occurrences)
... Numbers 33:23 And they removed from Kehelathah, and encamped in mount Shapher. ... Numbers
33:24 And they removed from mount Shapher, and encamped in Haradah. ...
/r/removed.htm - 34k

Shaphir (1 Occurrence)

/s/shaphir.htm - 7k

Pitched (101 Occurrences)
... pitched in Kehelathah. (KJV JPS). Numbers 33:23 And they went from Kehelathah,
and pitched in mount Shapher. (KJV JPS). Numbers 33 ...
/p/pitched.htm - 33k

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