Topical Bible: Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To Kibrothhattaavah: Called Taberah

Bible > Topical > Journey of Israel Through The Desert

◄ Journey of Israel Through The Desert: To Kibrothhattaavah: Called Taberah ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The journey of the Israelites through the desert is a significant narrative in the Old Testament, detailing their exodus from Egypt and their subsequent wanderings in the wilderness. One notable episode in this journey is their encampment at Kibrothhattaavah, also known as Taberah.

Biblical Context

The account of Kibrothhattaavah is primarily found in the Book of Numbers. After the Israelites left Mount Sinai, they embarked on their journey towards the Promised Land. However, their journey was marked by frequent complaints and disobedience, which often led to divine judgment.

Taberah: The Place of Burning

The name "Taberah" means "burning" in Hebrew, and it is so called because of the events that transpired there. In Numbers 11:1-3 , it is recorded:

"Now the people began complaining openly before the LORD about hardship, and when the LORD heard, His anger was kindled, and the fire of the LORD burned among them and consumed the outskirts of the camp. Then the people cried out to Moses, and he prayed to the LORD, and the fire died down. So that place was called Taberah, because the fire of the LORD had burned among them."

This passage highlights the Israelites' tendency to grumble against God despite His continuous provision and guidance. The divine fire that consumed the outskirts of the camp served as a severe reminder of God's holiness and the consequences of disobedience.

Kibrothhattaavah: Graves of Craving

Following the incident at Taberah, the Israelites moved to Kibrothhattaavah, which means "Graves of Craving." This name reflects another significant event where the Israelites expressed their dissatisfaction with the manna provided by God and longed for the meat and produce they had in Egypt. Numbers 11:4-6 describes their lament:

"Meanwhile, the rabble among them had a strong craving for other food, and again the Israelites wept and said, 'Who will feed us meat? We remember the fish we ate freely in Egypt, along with the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic. But now our appetite is gone; there is nothing to see but this manna!'"

In response to their complaints, God provided quail in abundance, but His anger was kindled due to their ingratitude and lack of faith. Numbers 11:33-34 recounts the outcome:

"While the meat was still between their teeth, before it was chewed, the anger of the LORD burned against the people, and the LORD struck them with a severe plague. So they called that place Kibroth-hattaavah, because there they buried the people who had craved other food."

Theological Significance

The events at Taberah and Kibrothhattaavah underscore the recurring theme of Israel's rebellion and God's righteous judgment. These episodes serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of ingratitude and the importance of trusting in God's provision. The Israelites' journey through the desert is a testament to God's patience and mercy, as well as His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises, despite the people's repeated failures.

Lessons for Believers

For contemporary believers, the journey to Taberah and Kibrothhattaavah offers valuable lessons in faith and obedience. It calls for a heart of gratitude and trust in God's provision, even in times of hardship. The narrative encourages believers to reflect on their own spiritual journey, recognizing the importance of relying on God's guidance and resisting the temptation to look back longingly at past comforts.