What was Almon-diblathaim?
Almon-diblathaim was one of the encampment sites of the Israelites during their wilderness journey after their exodus from Egypt and before entering the Promised Land. It is listed in the record of Israel’s journeyings in the wilderness in Numbers 33:46-47, where it says, “They set out from Dibon Gad and camped at Almon Diblathaim. They set out from Almon Diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, near Nebo.” The location is believed to have been situated east of the Jordan River, in the plains of Moab.
The name Almon-diblathaim (Hebrew: עַלְמֹן דִּבְלָתָיְמָה, Almōn Diblāthaymāh) may be interpreted as “hidden in the double cakes” or “concealed cluster of figs/dates,” combining the words almon (from a root meaning “hidden” or “concealed”) and diblathaim (related to dibelah, a “fig cake” or “pressed fig” as in 1 Samuel 25:18). This compound name may reflect a geographical characteristic, agricultural significance, or local custom tied to the area.
Biblical References
- Numbers 33:46-47 – Almon-diblathaim is mentioned as one of the final wilderness encampments.
- Jeremiah 48:22 (some scholars connect it to Beth-diblathaim, possibly the same or a nearby location in Moab).
Cross-References
- Numbers 21:20 – Mentions the heights of Pisgah near Nebo, to which Almon-diblathaim was close.
- Deuteronomy 34:1 – Moses views the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, located in the same region.
What Happened in the Bible?
Almon-diblathaim is part of the detailed itinerary recorded in Numbers 33, which recounts Israel‘s wilderness journey from Egypt to Canaan. These journeys were not just movements from place to place; they represented God‘s guidance, provision, and discipline. Almon-diblathaim came toward the end of Israel’s 40-year wilderness experience, likely during their final preparations before entering the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership.
The people of Israel had recently camped at Dibon Gad, then moved to Almon-diblathaim before reaching the mountains of Abarim, near Mount Nebo where Moses would later die. This proximity to Nebo highlights Almon-diblathaim’s role in the narrative as part of the closing chapter of Israel‘s wilderness wanderings and Moses‘ life.
What It Means for Today’s Christians
While Almon-diblathaim may seem like an obscure name in a list of travel sites, it reminds believers today that every step of Israel‘s journey had purpose. God led them each day, even when the location held no major historical event. For Christians, it illustrates that every place God leads us—whether significant or mundane—is part of His plan.
It also calls believers to remember that even in “in-between” seasons of life—where no big breakthrough or event seems to occur—God is still leading and shaping faith. The journey, not just the destination, matters in spiritual growth.
How This Place Points to Jesus and the Gospel
Almon-diblathaim sits in the shadows of Mount Nebo, where Moses saw the Promised Land but could not enter. Moses, the lawgiver, could lead the people to the border but not across. This foreshadows how the Law cannot bring salvation, but only Jesus, the greater Joshua, can lead His people into true rest (Hebrews 4:8-10).
The Israelites’ journey through obscure places like Almon-diblathaim underscores how God prepares His people for His promises over time. Jesus likewise walked humble paths and unknown roads before He accomplished His redemptive work. Every part of His journey mattered—and every part of the believer’s walk with Him matters as well.
Broader Biblical Themes
1. God’s Faithful Guidance
Each location in Numbers 33, including Almon-diblathaim, shows God‘s sovereign hand guiding His people. He provided for them in the wilderness and did not abandon them, even when they failed.
2. Transition and Preparation
Almon-diblathaim represents a place of transition—between the wilderness and the promise. The Christian life often includes such transitions where faith is tested and matured.
3. The Incompleteness of the Law
Being near Mount Nebo, where Moses’ journey ends, symbolizes the insufficiency of the law to bring people into God’s rest—only Christ can fulfill what Moses began.
4. The Significance of the “Small Places”
The Bible often points out “small” locations—insignificant to human eyes—that carry great spiritual meaning. Almon-diblathaim is a reminder that God works in quiet, uncelebrated places.
Reflection Questions
- Have there been seasons in your life where it felt like you were in a “place between places,” much like Almon-diblathaim? How did God reveal His presence to you there?
- What does Almon-diblathaim teach you about the value of the journey, not just the destination?
- How does knowing Jesus as our true guide and leader give you confidence in uncertain seasons?
- Are there “quiet places” in your life right now that God might be using to prepare you for something greater?
- How can you encourage others who feel like they are spiritually wandering to trust in God‘s daily guidance?
Almon-diblathaim may not host dramatic miracles or famous events, but it is a reminder that every step with God has meaning—and every place on the journey of faith is part of His redemptive plan.