Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD.
This is where the tribes come up—the tribes that belong to the LORD—following Israel's command, to give thanks to the name of the LORD.
This verse describes how all the tribes of Israel would travel together to Jerusalem to worship and thank God, following the law that required them to gather for festivals.
📚 Historical Context
This refers to the three major Jewish festivals (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles) when all Israelite tribes were commanded to come to Jerusalem to worship at the temple. The 'testimony of Israel' refers to the law given to Moses that established these required pilgrimages. These gatherings unified the scattered tribes and reinforced their shared faith and identity as God's people.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.