4. Kadesh-barnea

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photograph 4

This is a northeastern view of the great desert valley (also called a wadi) where Kadesh-barnea is situated. The stream that flows here during the rainy season makes this a well-watered and fruitful spot in the wilderness of Zin.

Significant Events: This is the likely spot from which Moses sent 12 men to spy out the land of Canaan (Num. 13:17–30). It served as a base camp for the Israelites during 38 of their nearly 40 years of wandering in the wilderness (Deut. 2:14). Miriam died and was buried here (Num. 20:1). This was the scene of Korah’s rebellion, the murmuring of the people, and the budding of Aaron’s rod (Num. 16–17). Near here Moses smote a rock and water came forth (Num. 20:7–11). (See BD Kadesh.)