Definition and Meaning:
Tab'erah, meaning "burning" in Hebrew, is a location mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Book of Numbers. It is significant for the event where the Israelites faced divine wrath due to their complaints against the Lord during their wilderness journey.

Biblical References:
The primary reference to Tab'erah is found in Numbers 11:1-3. The passage describes how the Israelites, after leaving Mount Sinai, began to complain about their hardships. The Lord's anger was kindled against them, resulting in a fire that consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. The people cried out to Moses, who prayed to the Lord, and the fire subsided. This place was subsequently named Tab'erah because of the burning that occurred there.

Scripture Quotation (Berean Standard Bible):
"Now the people began complaining openly before the LORD about hardship, and when the LORD heard, His anger was kindled, and the fire of the LORD burned among them and consumed the outskirts of the camp. Then the people cried out to Moses, and he prayed to the LORD, and the fire died down. So that place was called Taberah, because the fire of the LORD had burned among them." (Numbers 11:1-3)

Historical and Theological Context:
Tab'erah is part of the narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, a period marked by frequent disobedience and lack of faith among the people. The incident at Tab'erah highlights the recurring theme of divine judgment in response to Israel's rebellion and ingratitude. It serves as a reminder of the holiness and justice of God, as well as the importance of obedience and trust in His provision.

Lessons and Themes:
1. Divine Judgment: The event at Tab'erah underscores the seriousness with which God views rebellion and ingratitude. It serves as a warning to the faithful about the consequences of disobedience.

2. Intercession: Moses' role as an intercessor is highlighted in this passage. His prayer on behalf of the people leads to the cessation of the fire, demonstrating the power and importance of intercessory prayer.

3. Human Nature: The complaints of the Israelites reflect a common human tendency to focus on immediate discomforts rather than trusting in God's long-term plan and provision.

4. God's Mercy: Despite the judgment, God's response to Moses' prayer shows His willingness to relent and show mercy, emphasizing His compassionate nature.

Location and Archaeology:
The exact location of Tab'erah is not known, and it is not identified with any specific archaeological site. It is generally considered to be in the region of the Sinai Peninsula, where the Israelites wandered for forty years. The lack of precise geographical identification does not diminish its theological significance in the biblical narrative.

Related Entries:
· Kibroth-hattaavah: Another location associated with the Israelites' complaints and subsequent divine judgment, mentioned shortly after Tab'erah in Numbers 11.
· Moses: The leader of the Israelites who interceded on their behalf at Tab'erah.
· Wilderness Wanderings: The period of Israel's journey from Egypt to Canaan, characterized by trials, testing, and divine instruction.Tab'erah (2 Occurrences)

Numbers 11:3
And the name of that place was called Taberah, because the fire of the LORD burnt among them.
(See RSV)

Deuteronomy 9:22
And at Taberah, and at Massah, and at Kibroth-hattaavah, ye made the LORD wroth.
(See RSV)

Tab'erah (2 Occurrences)
Tab'erah. Taberah, Tab'erah. Tabering . Multi-Version Concordance
Tab'erah (2 Occurrences). Numbers 11:3 And the name of that place ...
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Taberah (2 Occurrences)

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Tabering (1 Occurrence)

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