Meribath-Kadesh; Meriboth-Kadesh
LocationsGeographical Setting
A site in the wilderness of Zin identified in biblical texts as the location where Moses struck the rock to bring forth water for the Israelite congregation.
What is the meaning of Meribath-Kadesh; Meriboth-Kadesh in the Bible?
A geographical site in the southern wilderness associated with the Israelite wilderness wanderings and distinct from, though often conflated with, Meribah in Kadesh.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding the distinction between Meribath-Kadesh and other Meribah sites clarifies the chronological and geographical progression of the Exodus narrative in the Book of Numbers.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Geopolitical & Terrain Context: Meribath-Kadesh; Meriboth-Kadesh (located near modern Wadi el-Hasa, near Kurnub (ancient Bozrah), Jordan) 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 Meribath-Kadesh; Meriboth-Kadesh in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Meribath-Kadesh; Meriboth-Kadesh clarify?
Related Topics
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
"Meribath-Kadesh; Meriboth-Kadesh." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/meribathkadesh-meribothkadesh/