Numbers 34:4
And your border shall turn from the south to the ascent of Akrabbim, and pass on to Zin: and the going forth thereof shall be from the south to Kadeshbarnea, and shall go on to Hazaraddar, and pass on to Azmon:
Numbers 34:4 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes the boundaries of the ancient land promised to the Israelites by God. The verse mentions specific locations such as Akrabbim, Zin, Kadeshbarnea, Hazaraddar, and Azmon, which are all key landmarks within the territory specified. Akrabbim is thought to refer to a mountain pass in the southern part of Canaan. Zin is likely a region in the south near the Dead Sea. Kadeshbarnea is an important site where the Israelites spent a significant amount of time during their journey to the promised land. Hazaraddar and Azmon are believed to be located in the southern part of the land given to the Israelites. The mention of these locations serves to establish the geographical extent of the boundaries of the land, providing a clear picture of the area that was to belong to the Israelites. By understanding these boundaries, readers can gain insight into the significance of the land promised to the Israelites and the specific areas that were designated for them by God.
Theological Overview
This verse from the book of Numbers describes the boundaries of the promised land of Canaan as outlined by God to the Israelites. The theological interpretation of this passage highlights the importance of boundaries and territories in God's plan for his chosen people. The journey from the south to the ascent of Akrabbim, passing through Zin, Kadeshbarnea, Hazaraddar, and Azmon, signifies the divine guidance and protection offered by God as the Israelites navigate through different regions. The mention of specific locations in this verse is significant as it emphasizes the specificity and precision of God's promises and instructions to his people. Word studies on terms like 'border,' 'ascent of Akrabbim,' 'Zin,' 'Kadeshbarnea,' 'Hazaraddar,' and 'Azmon' can provide deeper insights into the geographical and historical context of this passage, shedding light on the significance of each location in relation to the Israelites' journey to the promised land. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in leading his people to their destined inheritance, guiding them through various terrains and challenges along the way.
Numbers 34:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
and your border shall turn about southward of the ascent of Akrabbim, and pass along to Zin; and the goings out thereof shall be southward of Kadesh-barnea; and it shall go forth to Hazar-addar, and pass along to Azmon;
World English Bible
Your border shall turn about southward of the ascent of Akrabbim, and pass along to Zin; and it shall pass southward of Kadesh Barnea; and it shall go from there to Hazar Addar, and pass along to Azmon.
Douay-Rheims
Which limits shall go round on the south side by the ascent of the Scorpion and so into Senna, and reach toward the south as far as Cadesbarne, from whence the frontiers shall go out to the town called Adar, and shall reach as far as Asemona.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the border shall compasse you from the South to Maaleh-akrabbim, and reach to Zin, and goe out from the South to Kadesh-barnea: thence it shall stretch to Hazar-addar, and go along to Azmon.