Judges 11:16

But when Israel came up out of Egypt, they traveled through the wilderness to the Red Sea and came to Kadesh.

Study Bible

For when they came up out of Egypt
This phrase marks the beginning of a historical recounting by Jephthah, the judge of Israel, as he addresses the king of the Ammonites. The Israelites' exodus from Egypt is a pivotal event in biblical history, symbolizing God's deliverance and faithfulness. The Hebrew root for "came up" (עלה, 'alah) often signifies ascent or movement towards a higher place, reflecting the spiritual and physical journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom. This ascent is not just geographical but also spiritual, as they move towards the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey, promised to their forefathers.

Israel traveled through the wilderness
The wilderness journey is a significant period in Israel's history, lasting forty years. The Hebrew word for "wilderness" (מדבר, midbar) can also mean a place of speaking, where God communicates with His people. This time was one of testing, reliance on God, and preparation for entering the Promised Land. It was in the wilderness that the Israelites received the Law, learned dependence on God for sustenance, and were shaped into a nation. The wilderness experience is often seen as a metaphor for the Christian life, where believers are refined and drawn closer to God.

to the Red Sea
The Red Sea crossing is one of the most miraculous events in the Bible, where God parted the waters to allow the Israelites to escape the pursuing Egyptian army. The Hebrew term for "Red Sea" (ים סוף, Yam Suph) is traditionally understood as a body of water that God miraculously divided. This event is a powerful demonstration of God's sovereignty and protection. It serves as a reminder of God's ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable obstacles, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and salvation.

and came to Kadesh
Kadesh, often identified with Kadesh Barnea, is a significant location in the wilderness journey. It was here that the Israelites faced a critical moment of disobedience when they refused to enter the Promised Land due to fear, resulting in their extended wilderness wandering. The name "Kadesh" (קדש, Qadesh) means "holy" or "sacred," indicating its importance as a place of decision and encounter with God. This location serves as a reminder of the consequences of unbelief and the importance of trusting in God's promises. It is a call to faithfulness and obedience, encouraging believers to trust in God's plan and timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The nation chosen by God, consisting of the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In this context, Israel refers to the collective group of people who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness.

2. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved for 400 years before God delivered them through Moses. It represents a place of bondage and oppression.

3. Wilderness
The desert area through which the Israelites traveled for 40 years after leaving Egypt. It was a time of testing, reliance on God, and preparation for entering the Promised Land.

4. Red Sea
The body of water that God miraculously parted to allow the Israelites to escape from the pursuing Egyptian army. It symbolizes God's deliverance and power.

5. Kadesh
A significant location in the wilderness where the Israelites camped. It was a place of decision and rebellion, as well as a point of entry into the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Deliverance
Reflect on how God delivered Israel from Egypt and led them through the wilderness. Consider how God has been faithful in your own life, delivering you from spiritual bondage.

The Importance of Obedience
The journey to Kadesh was marked by moments of obedience and rebellion. Evaluate areas in your life where God is calling you to obedience and trust.

Trusting God's Timing
The Israelites' journey was longer than expected due to their disobedience. Trust in God's perfect timing for the fulfillment of His promises in your life.

Learning from Past Mistakes
The events at Kadesh serve as a reminder to learn from past mistakes and to seek God's guidance in decision-making.

God's Provision in the Wilderness
Just as God provided for Israel in the wilderness, trust in His provision for your needs today, even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the journey of Israel from Egypt to Kadesh reflect God's faithfulness and power in your own life?

2. In what ways can the account of Israel's rebellion at Kadesh serve as a warning for us today?

3. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and trust from Israel's wilderness journey to our current spiritual walk?

4. What are some "wilderness" experiences in your life where you have seen God's provision and guidance?

5. How can the account of Israel's deliverance from Egypt encourage you to trust God in areas where you feel enslaved or oppressed?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
This chapter describes the crossing of the Red Sea, highlighting God's miraculous deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

Numbers 13-14
These chapters recount the events at Kadesh, where the Israelites sent spies into the Promised Land and subsequently rebelled against God's command to enter it.

Deuteronomy 1
Moses recounts the journey from Egypt to Kadesh, emphasizing the lessons learned and the importance of obedience to God.