### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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.
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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