Numbers 33:41
And they departed from mount Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah.
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
הָהָ֑ר
from mount
H2022
הָהָ֑ר
from mount
Strong's:
H2022
Word #:
3 of 5
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
Historical Context
The thirty-day mourning period for Aaron (20:29) had concluded, and Israel was now approaching Moab's borders. The transition from Mount Hor toward the plains of Moab (where the book of Numbers will conclude) shows geographical progression toward conquest.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the place name 'Zalmonah' (shade) function as divine comfort after the grief of Aaron's death?
- What does Israel's continued march despite losing Aaron teach about the relationship between human leadership and God's unchanging purposes?
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Analysis & Commentary
Departed from mount Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah—צַלְמֹנָה (Ṣalmōnāh, 'shade' or 'shady place'). After Aaron's death and the victory over Arad, Israel resumed the march. The move from Mount Hor (death site) to Zalmonah ('shade') may suggest divine comfort after bereavement—God provides shelter and relief.
The wilderness journey continued despite leadership loss. Aaron died, but Israel moved forward under Eleazar's priesthood. This illustrates God's greater faithfulness: His purposes transcend any individual leader. Paul would later write, 'I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase' (1 Corinthians 3:6). Ministers come and go; God's work endures.