Book of Numbers - Chapter 21 - Verse 10

After leaving Mount Hor, the Israelites continued their journey through the wilderness and camped at a place called Oboth. This particular verse marks a significant point in the Israelites' travels from Egypt to the Promised Land. The name Oboth means "water skins" or "receptacles," which possibly indicates that it was a stop where the Israelites found water or restocked their supplies. The act of "setting forward and pitching" their tents symbolizes the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their time in the wilderness. Each campsite was strategically chosen by God to provide for the needs of the Israelites and to guide them on their journey. The verse reminds readers of the Israelites' reliance on God for sustenance and direction, as well as the importance of obedience and trust during their time of wandering. By studying these individual stops along their journey, readers can gain insight into the faithfulness of God and His provision for His people throughout their history.

When the children of Israel set forward and pitched in Oboth, they were continuing their journey through the wilderness as directed by God. The name "Oboth" is significant in that it means 'waterskins' or 'bottles', indicating a place where water was scarce or needed to be carried in containers. This location was likely strategically chosen by the Israelites to ensure they had access to water for themselves and their livestock.

From a theological perspective, this verse serves as a reminder of God's provision and guidance to His people. Just as He led the Israelites to Oboth to fulfill their basic needs for water, so too does He provide for our needs in our own journeys through life. The act of setting forward and pitching camp symbolizes the importance of obeying God's commands and being willing to follow wherever He leads.

Overall, the verse highlights the faithfulness of God in leading His people through challenging circumstances and confirms the importance of trusting in His guidance. It serves as a lesson for believers today to rely on God for their needs and to have faith that He will provide for them in all situations.