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Kadesh

Locations
Modern Location Ein el-Qudeirat, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt
Coordinates 29.7667, 33.9833

Geographical Setting

Kadesh-barnea was a fortified settlement in the northern Negev desert that served as a primary staging ground for the Israelite tribes during their wilderness wanderings.

What is the meaning of Kadesh in the Bible?

Kadesh-barnea was a strategic settlement in the wilderness of Zin, identified in biblical texts as the base from which the twelve spies were sent to scout the land of Canaan and the site where the Israelites remained for many years during their journey.

SIGNIFICANCE

Understanding the geography of Kadesh clarifies the timeline of the Exodus narrative, explaining the delay in entering the Promised Land and the logistical challenges faced by the Israelite community in the arid Sinai region.

Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide

Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Kadesh (located near modern Ein el-Qudeirat, Sinai Peninsula, Egypt) held strategic importance. Understanding its position and trade routes explains why key biblical events unfolded here.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
  • Why did the biblical author mention Kadesh in this passage?
  • What cultural or historical assumption does Kadesh clarify?

Related Topics

KedronValleyWanderings Of IsraelRoof-ChamberCorner GateBethsaida

Source Attribution

Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.

How to Cite This Entry

"Kadesh." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/kadesh/
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