Numbers 34:4

KJV

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:

KJV (with Strong's)

And your border {H1366} shall turn {H5437} from the south {H5045} to the ascent {H4608} of Akrabbim {H4610}, and pass on {H5674} to Zin {H6790}: and the going forth {H8444} thereof shall be from the south {H5045} to Kadeshbarnea {H6947}, and shall go on {H3318} to Hazaraddar {H2692}, and pass on {H5674} to Azmon {H6111}:

Complete Jewish Bible

From there your border turns, goes south of the 'Akrabbim Ascent and passes on to Tzin. From there it goes south of Kadesh-Barnea, on to Hatzar-Adar, and on to 'Atzmon.

Berean Standard Bible

cross south of the Ascent of Akrabbim, continue to Zin, and go south of Kadesh-barnea. Then it will go on to Hazar-addar and proceed to Azmon,

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;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Numbers 34:4 meticulously details a crucial segment of the southern border of the land of Canaan, outlining its geographical course from the ascent of Akrabbim through the Wilderness of Zin, touching Kadeshbarnea, and extending to Hazaraddar and Azmon. This verse is part of a larger divine decree (Numbers 34:1-12) providing precise boundaries for the inheritance God promised to the Israelites, underscoring His faithfulness and the certainty of His covenant fulfillment as they prepared to enter the Promised Land after decades of wilderness wandering.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Numbers 34:4 is embedded within a highly descriptive passage (Numbers 34:1-12) that delineates the precise boundaries of the land of Canaan which the Lord commanded the Israelites to possess. This chapter marks a significant shift in the book of Numbers, moving from the Israelites' wilderness journey and the laws governing their community to the practical details of their future settlement. Following the census and instructions for dividing the land by lot (Numbers 26:52-56), this detailed geographical survey serves as a divine land deed, providing an unambiguous definition of their God-given territory. It precedes the appointment of specific leaders responsible for the land's distribution (Numbers 34:16-29), emphasizing the divine authority and meticulous planning behind Israel's inheritance. The attention to detail here reinforces the seriousness of God's covenant promises and His active involvement in the practical aspects of His people's lives.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting for Numbers 34 is the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, as the generation of Israelites who rebelled at Kadeshbarnea had died off, and their descendants stood poised to enter Canaan. For ancient Near Eastern peoples, land ownership and defined borders were paramount, often secured through conquest or divine grant. The meticulous description of boundaries in this passage reflects the cultural importance of clear territorial claims, preventing future disputes among the tribes and with neighboring peoples. Geographical features like "ascent of Akrabbim" (Scorpion Pass) and "Zin" (a wilderness) served as natural, often formidable, markers. Kadeshbarnea, specifically mentioned, held immense historical significance as the site of Israel's initial rebellion and subsequent forty-year wandering (as recounted in [Numbers 13](/numbers/13 "Numbers 13 - The Spies Sent to Canaan") and [Numbers 14](/numbers/14 "Numbers 14 - Israel Rebels at Kadesh")). Its inclusion in the border description not only provides a clear geographical reference but also subtly reminds the new generation of the consequences of disobedience and the renewed opportunity for obedience.

* **Key Themes:** The meticulous delineation of the southern border in Numbers 34:4 contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Numbers and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Precision and Fulfillment**. God's covenant promise to Abraham regarding the land (see [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18-21 - God's Covenant with Abraham Regarding the Land")) is not a vague notion but a specific, tangible reality, now being fulfilled with exact geographical coordinates. This highlights God's unwavering faithfulness and the certainty of His word. Secondly, the passage underscores the theme of **Inheritance and Possession**. The land of Canaan is presented not merely as conquered territory but as a divine gift, an inheritance from the Lord to His chosen people. The boundaries are divinely set to establish a clear and secure possession, emphasizing Israel's unique status and God's provision for their flourishing. Finally, the detailed instructions reflect God's commitment to **Order and Structure**. Divine plans are characterized by clarity and precision. The specific delineation of borders was essential for preventing internal tribal disputes and providing a clear framework for their settlement, governance, and the establishment of a holy nation in the land God had prepared for them. This divine blueprint for their future life in the land demonstrates God's sovereign hand in every detail of Israel's existence.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Akrabbim (Hebrew, _'Akrabbim'_):** Meaning "scorpions," this term refers to a specific geographical feature, likely a steep, rugged, and arid mountainous pass known as "Scorpion Pass" or "Ascent of Scorpions." Its inclusion in the border description indicates a natural, formidable, and easily recognizable landmark in the desolate landscape, serving as a clear boundary marker due to its distinct and challenging terrain.
* **Zin (Hebrew, _Tsin_):** This refers to the Wilderness of Zin, a desolate desert region located south of Canaan and west of the Arabah. It was a significant and often harsh environment where the Israelites spent considerable time during their wilderness wanderings. Its mention here anchors the border within a well-known, albeit barren, geographical expanse, connecting the promised land to the Israelites' recent past.
* **Kadeshbarnea (Hebrew, _Qadesh Barnea'_):** A pivotal oasis and encampment site, central to Israel's wilderness experience. It was from Kadeshbarnea that the twelve spies were dispatched into Canaan (as recorded in [Numbers 13:26](/numbers/13-26 "Numbers 13:26 - The Spies Return to Kadeshbarnea")), and where the Israelites' rebellion led to their prolonged forty-year wandering. Its inclusion in the border description highlights its strategic and historical importance as a landmark on the southern frontier of the promised inheritance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And your border shall turn from the south to the ascent of Akrabbim":** This clause initiates the description of the southern boundary, indicating a directional change from a general southern starting point towards a specific, recognizable landmark. The "ascent of Akrabbim" marks the southeastern corner or a significant turning point of the border, signifying a shift in its trajectory as it moves westward.
* **"and pass on to Zin":** Following the ascent of Akrabbim, the border continues its course through the Wilderness of Zin. This indicates that a significant portion of the southern boundary would traverse this desolate desert region, utilizing its natural features as part of the divinely appointed demarcation.
* **"and the going forth thereof shall be from the south to Kadeshbarnea":** This phrase clarifies and reinforces the southern extent of the border, specifically linking it to Kadeshbarnea. It suggests that Kadeshbarnea itself, or its immediate vicinity, served as a key point on the southern boundary, a landmark that the border "goes forth" or extends to from its more easterly points within the Wilderness of Zin.
* **"and shall go on to Hazaraddar, and pass on to Azmon":** These final geographical markers further delineate the westward progression of the southern border. Hazaraddar and Azmon are specific locations that complete this segment, demonstrating the thoroughness and precision of the divine survey. Their inclusion underscores that the border was not vaguely defined but meticulously traced through a series of identifiable points, ensuring clarity for future possession.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Numbers 34:4, and indeed throughout the entire border description (Numbers 34:1-12), is **Topography/Geography**. The text is a highly detailed geographical survey, meticulously naming specific landmarks, wildernesses, and directional turns to define the precise boundaries of the Promised Land. This detailed mapping serves to underscore the divine precision and the tangible reality of God's promise. Furthermore, the use of **Specificity** and **Precision** is evident in the naming of each point ("ascent of Akrabbim," "Zin," "Kadeshbarnea," "Hazaraddar," "Azmon"), leaving no ambiguity about the extent of the inheritance. This precision reflects God's orderly nature and His commitment to fulfilling His word with exactness. The repeated use of verbs of movement and progression such as "turn," "pass on," and "go on" creates a sense of a linear, defined boundary, reinforcing the **Repetition** of the border's trajectory. This consistent linguistic pattern emphasizes the methodical and deliberate nature of the divine demarcation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Numbers 34:4, with its meticulous geographical detail, powerfully underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. The land, first promised to Abraham (Genesis 15:18), is now being precisely defined for his descendants, demonstrating that God's word is reliable and His plans are concrete. This divine precision in mapping out the physical inheritance foreshadows the certainty of God's spiritual promises. Just as Israel was given a secure, defined territory, believers today are given a secure, spiritual inheritance in Christ, marked by divine boundaries and certain possession. The emphasis on specific landmarks also highlights God's active involvement in the practical realities of His people's lives, providing order and preventing disputes. This attention to detail speaks to a God who is intimately concerned with every aspect of His creation and His people's well-being, ensuring their security and blessing within the parameters He establishes.

* [Deuteronomy 1:7](/deuteronomy/1-7 "Deuteronomy 1:7 - God Commands Israel to Possess the Land")
* [Joshua 15:1-4](/joshua/15-1 "Joshua 15:1-4 - Southern Border of Judah's Inheritance")
* [Psalm 105:8-11](/psalms/105-8 "Psalm 105:8-11 - God's Everlasting Covenant with Abraham")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Numbers 34:4, though a geographical description from ancient times, offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of precision, order, and unwavering faithfulness. Just as He meticulously defined the boundaries of Israel's inheritance, He has also established clear spiritual and moral boundaries for our lives. These divine parameters are not meant to restrict us but to protect us, guide us, and lead us into the fullness of the "promised land" of abundant life in Christ. Understanding and respecting these boundaries—whether in our relationships, finances, or personal conduct—is crucial for walking in God's will and experiencing His blessings. Furthermore, this verse serves as a powerful reminder that God's promises are concrete and certain. We can trust that every promise He has made, whether concerning salvation, provision, or His return, will be fulfilled with the same divine precision seen in the ancient borders of Canaan. Our spiritual inheritance in Christ is as real and secure as the land was for Israel, a gift from a faithful God who keeps His word to the smallest detail.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's border descriptions in Numbers 34:4 deepen your understanding of His character and faithfulness?**
* **In what areas of your life might God be calling you to recognize and respect His "boundaries" for your protection and flourishing?**
* **How does the certainty of Israel's physical inheritance encourage you concerning your spiritual inheritance in Christ?**
* **What specific promises of God are you holding onto today, and how does this passage reinforce your trust in their future fulfillment?**

### FAQ
**Why is so much detail given to geographical borders in the Bible, especially in Numbers 34:4?**

Answer: The meticulous detail given to geographical borders, as seen in Numbers 34:4, is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it underscores the **divine fulfillment of promises**. God had promised Abraham and his descendants a specific land (e.g., [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham")), and these detailed descriptions prove that God's word is not vague but precise and tangible. Secondly, it served a **practical and legal purpose**. Clear boundaries were essential for preventing disputes among the twelve tribes of Israel as they divided their inheritance, and for defining their national territory against surrounding peoples. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, land ownership was paramount, and detailed land deeds were common. This passage functions as a divine land deed. Lastly, it highlights God's **orderly and sovereign nature**. God is not chaotic; His plans are well-defined and executed with precision, demonstrating His control over history and geography. The inclusion of historically significant sites like [Kadeshbarnea](/numbers/13-26 "Numbers 13:26 - The Spies Return to Kadeshbarnea") also connects the future possession of the land to Israel's past experiences and God's ongoing guidance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Numbers 34:4 describes a physical inheritance for ancient Israel, its ultimate fulfillment and spiritual significance are found in Christ. The Promised Land, with its divinely ordained boundaries, serves as a powerful type and shadow of the secure and eternal inheritance that believers possess in Jesus. Just as Israel's land was a gift of grace, so too is our spiritual inheritance, not earned by works but freely given through faith in Christ. The meticulous precision of the ancient borders foreshadows the absolute certainty and security of our "inheritance in the saints in light" (as described in [Colossians 1:12](/colossians/1-12 "Colossians 1:12 - Our Inheritance in Light")). Jesus is the true "Promised Land," the one in whom all of God's promises find their "Yes" and "Amen" (see [2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). Through His atoning work, He has secured for us not merely a temporary physical dwelling, but an eternal dwelling with God, a heavenly country (as longed for in [Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - Longing for a Better Country")). The boundaries of this spiritual inheritance are defined by the boundless grace of God and the finished work of Christ, leading us into a rest that transcends any earthly territory (compare [Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4-1 "Hebrews 4:1-11 - Entering God's Rest")). Ultimately, the detailed land descriptions point to the perfect and secure new heavens and new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more curse, only perfect peace and everlasting possession (foreseen in [Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1-4 - The New Heaven and New Earth")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Numbers 32:8

Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadeshbarnea to see the land.

Numbers 13:26

¶ And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all the congregation, and shewed them the fruit of the land.

Joshua 15:3

And it went out to the south side to Maalehacrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and ascended up on the south side unto Kadeshbarnea, and passed along to Hezron, and went up to Adar, and fetched a compass to Karkaa:

Joshua 15:4

[From thence] it passed toward Azmon, and went out unto the river of Egypt; and the goings out of that coast were at the sea: this shall be your south coast.

Numbers 33:36

And they removed from Eziongaber, and pitched in the wilderness of Zin, which [is] Kadesh.

Numbers 33:37

And they removed from Kadesh, and pitched in mount Hor, in the edge of the land of Edom.

Numbers 20:1

¶ Then came the children of Israel, [even] the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there.