God’s deliberate route for Israel reminds us that He often uses unexpected circumstances to display His power in our lives.
In Numbers 33:7, we read, They journeyed from Etham and turned back to Pi-hahiroth, which faces Baal-zephon, and they camped before Migdol (v.7). This verse appears in a detailed account of the Israelites’ travels, emphasizing God’s continual guidance even through unexpected routes. Etham lay on the edge of the wilderness, and from there the Israelites literally reversed course to camp at Pi-hahiroth. This unusual movement would set the stage for the dramatic events at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:1-2), where God would show His power. By “turning back,” the Israelites positioned themselves where they had to rely on the LORD’s protection rather than human logic.
The place called Pi-hahiroth likely stood near the coast of the Red Sea, and Scripture notes that it faces Baal-zephon—a location whose name suggests a land with ties to pagan deities. Nearby, Migdol was probably a fortress or military outpost, affirming that the Israelites were still in Egyptian territory, vulnerable and in need of divine deliverance. God’s instruction to camp “before Migdol” hinted at the confrontation to come: Israel would appear trapped between fortress and sea, with Pharaoh’s army bearing down. Yet the LORD intended to demonstrate His sovereignty, proving that no earthly stronghold or false god could thwart His plan.
The idea of turning back or taking a route that feels backward often recurs in Scripture, telling believers that God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Jesus Himself sometimes led His disciples in ways that seemed illogical—like crossing the Sea of Galilee repeatedly (Mark 4:35 - 5:1)—all to show His power over the wind, waves, and even spiritual forces. The Israelites’ journey from Etham to Pi-hahiroth, though perplexing, demonstrated that God was indeed the One orchestrating every step for His ultimate glory and their deliverance.
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Numbers 33:7 meaning
In Numbers 33:7, we read, They journeyed from Etham and turned back to Pi-hahiroth, which faces Baal-zephon, and they camped before Migdol (v.7). This verse appears in a detailed account of the Israelites’ travels, emphasizing God’s continual guidance even through unexpected routes. Etham lay on the edge of the wilderness, and from there the Israelites literally reversed course to camp at Pi-hahiroth. This unusual movement would set the stage for the dramatic events at the Red Sea (Exodus 14:1-2), where God would show His power. By “turning back,” the Israelites positioned themselves where they had to rely on the LORD’s protection rather than human logic.
The place called Pi-hahiroth likely stood near the coast of the Red Sea, and Scripture notes that it faces Baal-zephon—a location whose name suggests a land with ties to pagan deities. Nearby, Migdol was probably a fortress or military outpost, affirming that the Israelites were still in Egyptian territory, vulnerable and in need of divine deliverance. God’s instruction to camp “before Migdol” hinted at the confrontation to come: Israel would appear trapped between fortress and sea, with Pharaoh’s army bearing down. Yet the LORD intended to demonstrate His sovereignty, proving that no earthly stronghold or false god could thwart His plan.
The idea of turning back or taking a route that feels backward often recurs in Scripture, telling believers that God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Jesus Himself sometimes led His disciples in ways that seemed illogical—like crossing the Sea of Galilee repeatedly (Mark 4:35 - 5:1)—all to show His power over the wind, waves, and even spiritual forces. The Israelites’ journey from Etham to Pi-hahiroth, though perplexing, demonstrated that God was indeed the One orchestrating every step for His ultimate glory and their deliverance.