The journey of the Israelites through the desert to the Mountains of Abarim is a significant episode in the biblical narrative, marking a pivotal moment in their wilderness wanderings. This journey is chronicled primarily in the Pentateuch, with particular emphasis in the Book of Numbers.

Biblical Context

The Israelites' journey to the Mountains of Abarim occurs after their prolonged wandering in the wilderness, a consequence of their disobedience and lack of faith at Kadesh-barnea (Numbers 14:26-35). The Abarim range is located east of the Jordan River, and it serves as a vantage point from which Moses views the Promised Land before his death.

Scriptural References

The primary scriptural account of the journey to the Mountains of Abarim is found in Numbers 33:47-48: "They set out from Almon-diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo. They set out from the mountains of Abarim and camped on the plains of Moab by the Jordan across from Jericho."

Additionally, Numbers 27:12-14 records God's command to Moses: "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Go up this mountain of the Abarim range and see the land that I have given to the Israelites. After you have seen it, you too will be gathered to your people, as Aaron your brother was.'"

Geographical Significance

The Mountains of Abarim are a mountain range in the region of Moab, east of the Dead Sea. Mount Nebo, one of the peaks in this range, holds particular significance as the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land. The range provided a strategic location for the Israelites as they prepared to enter Canaan.

Theological Implications

The journey to the Mountains of Abarim underscores themes of faith, obedience, and divine promise. Despite the Israelites' earlier failures, God remains faithful to His covenant, guiding them to the brink of the land He promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses' ascent to Mount Nebo symbolizes the culmination of his leadership and the transition of leadership to Joshua.

Moses' Final Act

Moses' experience on Mount Nebo is a poignant moment in biblical history. Deuteronomy 34:1-4 describes how the LORD showed him the entirety of the Promised Land, though he was not permitted to enter it. This act signifies both the fulfillment of God's promise and the consequences of Moses' earlier disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:12).

Legacy and Reflection

The journey to the Mountains of Abarim serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the consequences of disobedience. It highlights God's unwavering commitment to His promises and the necessity for His people to trust and obey His commands. The narrative invites reflection on the leadership of Moses and the transition to a new generation poised to inherit the promises of God.Numbers 21:20
And from Bamoth in the valley, that is in the country of Moab, to the top of Pisgah, which looks toward Jeshimon.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Numbers 33:47
And they removed from Almondiblathaim, and pitched in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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