Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning: Meribath-ka'desh, also known as Meribah Kadesh, is a compound name derived from Hebrew roots. "Meribah" means "quarreling" or "contention," and "Kadesh" means "holy" or "sacred." Thus, Meribath-ka'desh can be understood as "the place of quarreling at Kadesh." Biblical References: Meribath-ka'desh is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It is notably referenced in Numbers 20:13, where it is described as the place where the Israelites quarreled with the LORD, and He showed Himself holy among them. The Berean Standard Bible states: "These were the waters of Meribah, where the Israelites quarreled with the LORD, and He showed His holiness among them." Historical and Theological Significance: Meribath-ka'desh holds significant historical and theological importance in the narrative of the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It is the site where Moses, in frustration with the people's complaints about the lack of water, struck the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded (Numbers 20:7-12). This act of disobedience resulted in God decreeing that Moses and Aaron would not lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. The incident at Meribath-ka'desh underscores themes of faith, obedience, and the holiness of God. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of failing to uphold God's commands and the importance of trusting in His provision. Geographical Context: Meribath-ka'desh is associated with the region of Kadesh-barnea, located in the northeastern part of the Sinai Peninsula. This area served as a significant encampment for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness. The exact location of Meribath-ka'desh is debated among scholars, but it is generally believed to be near the modern-day border of Israel and Egypt. Cross-References and Related Events: The events at Meribath-ka'desh are closely related to earlier incidents of quarreling and testing God, such as the waters of Massah and Meribah in Exodus 17:1-7. In both instances, the Israelites' lack of faith and trust in God's provision is highlighted. Additionally, Meribath-ka'desh is mentioned in Deuteronomy 32:51, where God reiterates the reason Moses and Aaron were not permitted to enter the Promised Land: "This is because both of you broke faith with Me in the presence of the Israelites at the waters of Meribah Kadesh in the Wilderness of Zin, because you did not uphold My holiness among the Israelites." Legacy and Lessons: Meribath-ka'desh serves as a poignant lesson in the biblical narrative about the importance of obedience to God and the consequences of failing to honor His holiness. It is a reminder of the need for faith and trust in God's promises, even in challenging circumstances. The account of Meribath-ka'desh continues to be a significant point of reflection for believers, emphasizing the call to live in accordance with God's will and to recognize His sovereignty and holiness. Concordance Meribath-ka'desh (2 Occurrences)Ezekiel 47:19 Ezekiel 48:28 Thesaurus Meribath-ka'desh (2 Occurrences)Meribath-ka'desh. Meribath-kadesh, Meribath-ka'desh. Mer'i-bath-ka'desh . Multi-Version Concordance Meribath-ka'desh (2 Occurrences). ... /m/meribath-ka'desh.htm - 7k Mer'i-bath-ka'desh (1 Occurrence) Meribath-kadesh (4 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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