Numbers Chapter 33 · Verse 31
And they departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Bene-jaakan.
Original Language Analysis
וַיִּסְע֖וּ
And they departed
H5265
וַיִּסְע֖וּ
And they departed
Strong's:
H5265
Word #:
1 of 5
properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
Historical Context
Jaakan (also called Akan) was a Horite chieftain in Edom (1 Chronicles 1:42). Israel's interactions with Edom during the Exodus period were fraught with tension, as blood relations (descendants of Jacob and Esau) became political adversaries.
Questions for Reflection
- Why would God command Israel to take the difficult route around Edom rather than conquer them?
- How does Israel's restraint toward Edom inform New Testament ethics of non-retaliation?
Analysis & Commentary
Departed from Moseroth, and pitched in Bene-jaakan—בְּנֵי יַעֲקָן (Benē Ya'ăqān, 'sons of Jaakan'). This station preserves the name of an Edomite clan (Genesis 36:27), indicating Israel's proximity to kinsmen-turned-enemies. Edom refused Israel passage (20:14-21), forcing the circuitous desert route.
The presence of Edomite settlements along Israel's path illustrates God's meticulous sovereignty—He could have given Israel military victory over Esau's descendants, but commanded restraint (Deuteronomy 2:4-5). Divine providence sometimes means the longer, harder road that respects familial ties, foreshadowing Christ's teaching on loving enemies.