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אָלוּשׁ (a.lush)

a.lush

Alush

H0442 · Hebrew · Old Testament · 2 verses

N:N--L

Quick Reference

Language
Biblical Hebrew
Testament
Old Testament
Occurrences
2 verses
Root
—
Part of speech
N:N--L

Word Overview

The name Alush appears in Numbers 33 as one of the many stopping points for Israel during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. The lexicon sources identify it as a wilderness encampment, marking a specific moment in the long trek through the desert.

Its meaning is derived from the Hebrew root for kneading bread, suggesting "I will knead." This etymology offers a vivid image of daily sustenance in the wild. It implies that even in this remote location, the people prepared their food, grounding the spiritual journey in the physical reality of survival and provision.

With only two occurrences, both in the travel list of Numbers 33:13–14, Alush serves as a historical marker rather than a site of major theological events. Its inclusion reminds readers that the Exodus was not just a series of miracles but a long, arduous process involving daily life and movement.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The name Alush appears only twice in Scripture, tucked into the travel records of Numbers 33. It marks a brief stop between Dophkah and Rephidim, a place where the Israelites set up camp before facing the crisis of thirst at the next station. The word itself connects to kneading, bringing to mind the daily rhythm of preparing bread in the wilderness.

These lists can feel dry, but they ground our faith in real history. God did not just perform miracles in a vacuum; He guided people through ordinary days of travel and rest. Even in remote places like Alush, the community continued its routine, trusting that provision would come as it always had.

This reminds us that our own spiritual journey includes both dramatic moments and quiet stretches of time. We do not need to wait for a burning bush or a parting sea to experience God’s presence. He is faithful in the mundane, sustaining us through the long road toward His promises.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • from/ Alush1×
  • at/ Alush1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • מֵ/אָל֑וּשׁ1×
  • בְּ/אָלֽוּשׁ\׃1×

Key Verses

  • Numbers 33:13
    They traveled from Dophkah, and encamped in Alush.

    This verse records the specific moment Israel left Dophkah and settled in Alush, marking a distinct pause in their wilderness trek.

  • Numbers 33:14
    They traveled from Alush, and encamped in Rephidim, where there was no water for the people to drink.

    Here the text shows Israel departing Alush for Rephidim, highlighting the transition from one encampment to the next challenge of water scarcity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Alush mean?

The name Alush is derived from a Hebrew root meaning kneading, likely referencing the preparation of bread. This suggests that even in this remote wilderness stop, the people maintained their daily routines of food preparation.

Where does Alush appear in the Bible?

Alush is mentioned only twice, both in Numbers 33:13 and 33:14. These verses are part of the detailed itinerary recording Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land.

Why is Alush important for understanding the Exodus?

While not a site of major miracles, Alush shows that the Exodus involved long periods of ordinary travel and rest. It reminds readers that God sustained Israel through daily life, not just dramatic events.

Every Occurrence (2 verses across 1 books)