from the plural of עִי and the plural of the active participle of עָבַר with the article interposed; ruins of the passers; Ije-ha-Abarim, a place near Palestine; Ije-abarim.
Transliteration:ʻÎyêy hâ-ʻĂbârîym
Pronunciation:ee-yay' haw-ab-aw-reem'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term `{{H5863}}`, ʻÎyêy hâ-ʻĂbârîym, is a compound geographical name, transliterated as Ije-ha-Abarim or Ije-abarim. Its etymology provides significant insight into its meaning. It is derived from the plural of עִי (ʻiy, `{{H5856}}`), meaning "heap of ruins" or "ruin," and the plural active participle of עָבַר (ʻabar, `{{H5674}}`), meaning "to pass over, through, or by," with the definite article interposed. Thus, the literal translation is "ruins of the passers" or "ruins of those who pass by." This suggests a place marked by desolation or ancient remnants, situated along a route frequented by travelers or migrants. It functions as a geographical marker, specifically denoting a site within the wilderness itinerary of the Israelites.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{H5863}}` appears exclusively in the book of Numbers, serving as a specific waypoint in the detailed account of Israel's wilderness wanderings.
* [[Numbers 21:11]]: "And they journeyed from Oboth and encamped at Iye-abarim, in the wilderness which is before Moab, toward the sunrise." This verse places Ije-abarim as the next stop after Oboth, situated in the wilderness facing Moab. The directional "toward the sunrise" indicates its location east of their previous position, moving them closer to the Transjordanian plateau.
* [[Numbers 33:44]]: "And they journeyed from Oboth and encamped at Iye-abarim, in the border of Moab." This reiterates the journey from Oboth and confirms its location near the border of Moab. The meticulous recording of each encampment in Numbers 33 underscores the divine guidance and historical veracity of Israel's journey.
* [[Numbers 33:45]]: "And they journeyed from Iyim and encamped at Dibon-gad." While this verse explicitly mentions "Iyim" (`{{H5856}}`), it is widely understood to be a shortened form or alternative name for Ije-abarim, or at least refers to the same general area of "ruins" from which they departed. The continuity in the itinerary suggests a close association, if not identity, between Iyim and Ije-abarim in this context.
The contextual analysis reveals Ije-ha-Abarim as a crucial point in Israel's approach to the land of Moab, marking their progression towards the Promised Land after decades of wandering. Its name, "ruins of the passers," might reflect the desolate nature of the region, the remnants of previous inhabitants or ancient structures, or simply its function as a temporary stop for many travelers, including the Israelites themselves.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary components of `{{H5863}}` are:
* עִי (ʻiy, `{{H5856}}`): "ruin, heap of ruins." This root emphasizes the desolate or ancient character of the location.
* עָבַר (ʻabar, `{{H5674}}`): "to pass over, through, by." This verb highlights the transient nature of those who frequented the area and, by extension, the Israelites' journey itself.
Conceptually, `{{H5863}}` is closely related to:
* **Wilderness Wanderings:** It is an integral part of the biblical narrative detailing Israel's 40-year journey from Egypt to Canaan, emphasizing God's meticulous leading.
* **Geographical Markers:** Like other place names in Numbers, it serves as a historical and geographical anchor for the Exodus account.
* **Divine Providence:** The precise listing of encampments, including Ije-ha-Abarim, illustrates God's detailed oversight of His people's journey.
* **Borders and Transitions:** Its location near the border of Moab signifies a transition point, as Israel moved from the deep wilderness into territories bordering settled lands.
### Theological Significance
As a geographical place name, the theological significance of `{{H5863}}` is primarily found in its contribution to the overarching narrative of God's faithfulness and guidance during the Exodus.
1. **Divine Guidance and Order:** The very inclusion of such specific place names like Ije-ha-Abarim in the biblical itinerary (Numbers 33) underscores the highly organized and divinely directed nature of Israel's journey. It demonstrates that their wanderings were not random but a purposeful progression orchestrated by God, each encampment a step in His redemptive plan.
2. **Historical Veracity:** The precise geographical details lend historical credibility to the Exodus account. These are not vague, mythical locations but identifiable points on a map, grounding the narrative in a tangible reality.
3. **The Journey of Faith:** The name "ruins of the passers" can evoke a theological reflection on the transient nature of life and the pilgrim status of God's people in this world. Like the Israelites, believers are "passers-through," journeying towards a promised inheritance. The "ruins" might serve as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly structures and the enduring nature of God's covenant.
4. **Approaching the Inheritance:** Ije-ha-Abarim marks a significant stage as Israel drew closer to the land of Moab and, by extension, the Promised Land. It represents a point of nearing fulfillment, a step closer to the realization of God's promises after a long period of wilderness discipline.
### Summary
`{{H5863}}`, ʻÎyêy hâ-ʻĂbârîym, literally meaning "ruins of the passers," is a significant geographical location mentioned in the book of Numbers ([[Numbers 21:11]], [[Numbers 33:44]], [[Numbers 33:45]]). Composed of עִי (ruins, `{{H5856}}`) and עָבַר (passers, `{{H5674}}`), it describes a desolate waypoint along the route of the Israelite wilderness wanderings, specifically as they approached the territory of Moab. Its inclusion in the meticulous itinerary of Numbers highlights God's precise guidance and providential care over His people. Theologically, Ije-ha-Abarim serves as a testament to the historical reality of the Exodus, emphasizing the divine order in Israel's journey and their steady progression towards the fulfillment of God's promises, underscoring the transient nature of their earthly pilgrimage.
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