Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: Meribath-Kadesh, also known as Meribah-Kadesh, is a significant biblical location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name "Meribath-Kadesh" translates to "quarreling at Kadesh" or "contention at Kadesh," derived from the Hebrew words "Meribah" (meaning "quarrel" or "strife") and "Kadesh" (meaning "holy" or "sacred"). This site is associated with a pivotal event in the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites. Biblical References: Meribath-Kadesh is primarily referenced in the context of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt. The key scriptural passages include: · Numbers 20:13 : "These were the waters of Meribah, where the Israelites quarreled with the LORD, and He showed Himself holy among them." · Deuteronomy 32:51 : "For you broke faith with Me among the Israelites at the waters of Meribah Kadesh in the Wilderness of Zin by failing to treat Me as holy in their presence." Historical and Theological Significance: Meribath-Kadesh is notably the site where Moses and Aaron faced the rebellion and complaints of the Israelites due to a lack of water. In response to the people's grumbling, God instructed Moses to speak to the rock to bring forth water. However, Moses, in frustration, struck the rock twice with his staff, as recorded in Numbers 20:11. This act of disobedience and lack of trust in God's command led to severe consequences for Moses and Aaron. God declared that neither would lead the assembly into the Promised Land, as stated in Numbers 20:12 : "But the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, 'Because you did not trust Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this assembly into the land I have given them.'" The incident at Meribath-Kadesh underscores themes of faith, obedience, and the holiness of God. It serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to God's instructions and the consequences of failing to do so. The event also highlights God's provision and mercy, as He still provided water for the people despite their rebellion. Geographical Context: Meribath-Kadesh is located in the Wilderness of Zin, a desert region that the Israelites traversed during their 40-year journey. The exact location of Meribath-Kadesh is debated among scholars, but it is generally associated with the area around Kadesh-Barnea, near the southern border of Canaan. Related Themes and Concepts: · Faith and Obedience: The incident at Meribath-Kadesh illustrates the necessity of faith and obedience to God's commands, even in challenging circumstances. · Leadership and Responsibility: Moses and Aaron's actions at Meribath-Kadesh highlight the responsibilities of leadership and the impact of leaders' actions on their followers. · God's Holiness: The event emphasizes the holiness of God and the importance of treating Him with reverence and respect. Cross-References: · Exodus 17:1-7 : Another account of water from the rock at a place also called Meribah, earlier in the Israelites' journey. · Psalm 106:32-33 : A reflection on the incident at Meribath-Kadesh, highlighting the consequences of Moses' actions. Meribath-Kadesh remains a poignant reminder of the complexities of faith, leadership, and the divine-human relationship as depicted in the biblical narrative. Concordance Mer'i-bath-ka'desh (1 Occurrence)Deuteronomy 32:51 Thesaurus Mer'i-bath-ka'desh (1 Occurrence)Mer'i-bath-ka'desh. Meribath-ka'desh, Mer'i-bath-ka'desh. Meribbaal . Multi-Version Concordance Mer'i-bath-ka'desh (1 Occurrence). ... /m/mer'i-bath-ka'desh.htm - 6k Meribath-ka'desh (2 Occurrences) Meribath-kadesh (4 Occurrences) Meribathkadesh Meribothkadesh Meriboth-kadesh (2 Occurrences) Meribbaal (2 Occurrences) Resources What are the modern equivalents of biblical weights and measures? | GotQuestions.orgSign of the cross - what is the meaning? | GotQuestions.org What is Restorationism? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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