The Hebrew phrase ʼÂbêl hash-Shiṭṭîym, represented by H63, identifies a specific location known as Abelshittim. It appears only 1 time in 1 verse within the Bible. The name itself means meadow of the acacias and refers to a place in Palestine.
The single biblical reference to H63 occurs in Numbers 33:49, which chronicles the final stages of the Israelites' journey toward the promised land. The verse states that they set up their camp "by Jordan... even unto Abelshittim in the plains of Moab." This places Abelshittim as a boundary marker for the vast Israelite encampment just before they were to cross the Jordan River.
The context of this location is clarified by several related words found within its only mention:
- H2583 chânâh: This root word means to encamp or pitch a tent. In Numbers 33:49, it describes the action of the Israelites, who "pitched" their camp in this location.
- H3383 Yardên: Defined as Jarden, the principal river of Palestine, its presence establishes the major geographical landmark for the encampment.
- H4124 Môwʼâb: This refers to Moab, both the territory and its descendants. The verse specifies that Abelshittim was located within the territory of Moab.
- H6160 ʻărâbâh: This word means plain or desert, particularly the sterile valley of the Jordan. It describes the type of terrain where Abelshittim was situated.
The geographical significance of H63 is tied to its role as a pivotal point in Israel's history.
- Final Staging Ground: As the location of the final encampment before crossing the Jordan, Abelshittim marks the culmination of the forty years of wandering. The act of pitching camp H2583 here signifies a major stop before entering the promised land.
- Defined Territory: The verse firmly places Abelshittim within a specific region: on the plains H6160 of Moab H4124 and next to the Jordan H3383. This provides a clear geographical anchor for the events that precede the conquest of Canaan.
- A Place of Transition: Situated on the border of their past (the wilderness) and their future (the promised land), Abelshittim represents a geographical and historical threshold for the nation of Israel.
In summary, H63 is not a common term but a highly specific place name, Abelshittim. Its sole appearance in scripture is significant, marking the location of the Israelites' last camp before crossing the Jordan River. Defined by its position in the plains of Moab, its importance is derived entirely from its role as the final staging area at the end of the exodus.
TRV