The journey of the Israelites through the desert, following their miraculous exodus from Egypt, marks a significant period in biblical history. This journey, which lasted forty years, is characterized by divine provision, guidance, and the establishment of a covenant relationship between God and His chosen people. The commencement of their journey is particularly notable for the healthy state of the Israelites, both physically and spiritually, as they embarked on this transformative pilgrimage.

Divine Deliverance and Initial Health

The Israelites' departure from Egypt was marked by the miraculous events of the Passover and the crossing of the Red Sea. These events not only demonstrated God's power and faithfulness but also set the stage for the physical and spiritual well-being of the people. Exodus 12:37-38 records that "the Israelites journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides women and children. And a mixed multitude also went up with them, along with flocks and herds, a great number of livestock." This large assembly, including men, women, children, and livestock, indicates a community in good health, capable of undertaking a long and arduous journey.

Provision of Manna and Quail

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Israelites' journey was God's provision of food in the form of manna and quail. In Exodus 16:4 , the Lord declares, "Behold, I will rain down bread from heaven for you. Each day the people are to go out and gather enough for that day." This daily provision ensured that the Israelites had the necessary sustenance to maintain their health throughout their travels. The manna, described as "white like coriander seed and tasting like wafers made with honey" (Exodus 16:31), was both nutritious and sufficient for their needs.

Water from the Rock

In addition to food, God provided water in miraculous ways to sustain the Israelites. In Exodus 17:6 , God instructs Moses, "Behold, I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. And when you strike the rock, water will come out of it for the people to drink." This provision of water from the rock at Horeb was a testament to God's care and ensured that the Israelites remained hydrated and healthy in the harsh desert environment.

The Absence of Disease

The initial phase of the Israelites' journey is also marked by a notable absence of disease. In Exodus 15:26 , God promises, "If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commandments and keep all His statutes, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD who heals you." This divine assurance of health was contingent upon their obedience and faithfulness, underscoring the spiritual dimension of their well-being.

Spiritual Health and Covenant Relationship

The Israelites' healthy state was not limited to their physical condition but extended to their spiritual health as well. The journey through the desert was a time of covenant formation and spiritual growth. At Mount Sinai, God gave the Israelites the Ten Commandments and established a covenant with them, as recorded in Exodus 19-20. This covenant relationship was foundational to their identity as God's people and was intended to guide them in righteousness and holiness.

Guidance by the Pillar of Cloud and Fire

Throughout their journey, the Israelites were guided by the presence of God manifested in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. Exodus 13:21-22 states, "And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night. Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place before the people." This divine guidance provided assurance and direction, contributing to their overall well-being and sense of security.

The commencement of the Israelites' journey through the desert was marked by a state of health and divine provision, both physically and spiritually. This period set the foundation for their identity as a nation under God's covenant, sustained by His miraculous care and guidance.Psalm 105:37
He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Christ of the Gospels. By Rev. Professor Schaff.
... in adoration before the infant Jesus on his journey to Egypt ... order of the race, the
King of Israel, the Messiah. ... and the actualization in him and through him of ...
/.../the christ of the gospels.htm

Another Wonderful Record of 25.
... built, and a pastor settled, mainly through the instrumentality ... I am with you always,'
would desert them among ... an old barn, and there committed their case to ...
/.../various/the wonders of prayer/another wonderful record of 25 00.htm

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