Etymology and Meaning:
Jot'bathah, sometimes spelled Jotbath, is a name that appears in the Old Testament. The name is believed to mean "pleasantness" or "goodness," reflecting the characteristics of the location.

Biblical References:
Jot'bathah is mentioned in the context of the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It is specifically noted in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Deuteronomy as one of the stations where the Israelites camped during their 40-year journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

· Numbers 33:33-34 : "They set out from Hor-haggidgad and camped at Jotbathah. They set out from Jotbathah and camped at Abronah."

· Deuteronomy 10:7 : "From there they traveled to Gudgodah, and from Gudgodah to Jotbathah, a land with streams of water."

Geographical Context:
Jot'bathah is described as a place with streams of water, indicating it was a location of refreshment and sustenance for the Israelites. This description suggests it was a fertile area, providing a stark contrast to the arid desert surroundings typical of the region. The exact location of Jot'bathah is not definitively known today, but it is generally thought to be situated in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula or possibly in the northwestern region of modern-day Saudi Arabia.

Historical and Theological Significance:
The mention of Jot'bathah in the biblical narrative underscores the providence and care of God for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The provision of water in such a place would have been a significant blessing, symbolizing God's ongoing sustenance and faithfulness to His people. The journey through Jot'bathah is part of the larger narrative of the Exodus, which is central to understanding God's covenant relationship with Israel.

Cultural and Religious Insights:
In the broader context of Israel's wilderness wanderings, Jot'bathah serves as a reminder of the transient nature of the Israelites' journey and the importance of reliance on divine provision. The stop at Jot'bathah, like other encampments, was a temporary resting place on the way to the Promised Land, reflecting the spiritual journey of faith and trust in God's promises.

Archaeological Considerations:
While there is no definitive archaeological evidence pinpointing the exact location of Jot'bathah, the general area is consistent with the descriptions found in the biblical text. The search for such sites continues to be a topic of interest for biblical archaeologists and scholars seeking to understand the historical context of the Exodus narrative.

Jot'bathah remains a testament to the historical journey of the Israelites and the enduring themes of faith, provision, and divine guidance that are woven throughout the biblical account.Jot'bathah (3 Occurrences)

Numbers 33:33
And they journeyed from Hor-haggidgad, and pitched in Jotbah.
(See RSV)

Numbers 33:34
And they journeyed from Jotbah, and pitched in Abronah.
(See RSV)

Deuteronomy 10:7
From thence they journeyed unto Gudgod; and from Gudgod to Jotbah, a land of brooks of water.--
(See RSV)

Jot'bathah (3 Occurrences)
Jot'bathah. Jotbathah, Jot'bathah. Jotham . Multi-Version Concordance
Jot'bathah (3 Occurrences). Numbers 33:33 And they journeyed ...
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Jotbathah (3 Occurrences)

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Jotham (26 Occurrences)

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