Topical Encyclopedia Etymology and Meaning Kib'roth-hatta'avah, translated as "Graves of Craving" or "Graves of Lust," is a significant location mentioned in the Old Testament. The name itself reflects the events that transpired there, highlighting the consequences of the Israelites' desires and disobedience. Biblical References Kib'roth-hatta'avah is primarily mentioned in the Book of Numbers. The narrative is found in Numbers 11:31-34, where the Israelites, during their wilderness journey, express dissatisfaction with the manna provided by God and crave the meat and produce they had in Egypt. In response to their complaints, God sends quail to satisfy their desires, but His anger is kindled due to their ingratitude and lack of faith. Numbers 11:31-34 : "Now a wind went out from the LORD and drove quail in from the sea. It brought them down all around the camp to a depth of two cubits above the ground, for a day's journey in every direction. All that day and night and all the next day, the people went out and gathered quail. No one gathered less than ten homers. Then they spread them out all around the camp. But while the meat was still between their teeth and before it was chewed, the anger of the LORD burned against the people, and the LORD struck them with a severe plague. So they called that place Kibroth-hattaavah, because there they buried the people who had craved other food." Historical and Theological Significance Kib'roth-hatta'avah serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of succumbing to fleshly desires and the importance of trusting in God's provision. The event underscores the Israelites' struggle with faith and obedience during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It illustrates the broader theme of human discontent and the consequences of turning away from divine guidance. Theologically, the incident at Kib'roth-hatta'avah is often interpreted as a lesson in the perils of ingratitude and the importance of spiritual contentment. The Israelites' craving for the food of Egypt symbolizes a longing for their past life of bondage, reflecting a lack of appreciation for the freedom and sustenance provided by God. Location and Archaeology The exact location of Kib'roth-hatta'avah remains uncertain, as with many sites mentioned in the wilderness narratives. It is generally believed to be situated in the Sinai Peninsula, along the route of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The lack of precise archaeological evidence makes it difficult to pinpoint its location, but its significance is well-documented in the biblical text. Lessons and Applications The account of Kib'roth-hatta'avah offers valuable lessons for believers today. It calls for a heart of gratitude and trust in God's provision, warning against the dangers of covetousness and discontent. The narrative encourages believers to seek spiritual fulfillment in God's promises rather than in the fleeting pleasures of the world. Concordance Kib'roth-hatta'avah (5 Occurrences)Numbers 11:34 Numbers 11:35 Numbers 33:16 Numbers 33:17 Deuteronomy 9:22 Thesaurus Kib'roth-hatta'avah (5 Occurrences)Kib'roth-hatta'avah. Kibroth-hattaavah, Kib'roth-hatta'avah. Kibzaim . Multi-Version Concordance Kib'roth-hatta'avah (5 Occurrences). ... /k/kib'roth-hatta'avah.htm - 7k Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) Kibzaim (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |