And when we passed by from our brethren the children of Esau, which dwelt in Seir, through the way of the plain from Elath, and from Eziongaber, we turned and passed by the way of the wilderness of Moab.
So we traveled past our relatives, the descendants of Esau, who lived in Seir. We went through the route of the plain from Elath and from Ezion-gaber, then we turned and went through the wilderness of Moab.
The writer is describing how the Israelites carefully traveled around the lands of their relatives (Edom) and other nations as they journeyed toward the Promised Land.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses is recounting the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their exodus from Egypt, as they moved toward the Promised Land. God had commanded them to pass peacefully by the territory of Seir, which was occupied by the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, to avoid conflict and honor familial ties. This route through areas like Elath and Ezion-geber highlighted God's guidance in directing the Israelites along a specific path to fulfill His promises.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.