Jewish Travels

The Torah lists forty-two different locations where the Jewish people traveled in the desert. Most of the traveling took place in the first year and the fortieth year.

It was during the first and fortieth year, that most of the transgressions occurred. This meant that the thirty-eight years in between, were relatively quiet. It allowed the Jewish people to study and get acquainted with the Written Law, as well as the Oral Law.

It is worthy of note that when these forty-two locations are mentioned, there are hints to the fact that sins may have taken place there.

There are a few reasons why it was necessary to remind Israel of their past. The first reason was to show that despite our shortcomings, Hashem never abandoned us. He may not have been pleased about our actions, but He never stopped acting as our Father in Heaven.

A second reason is that it is essential that we do not forget our past. We came from very humble beginnings. We were descendants of idol worshippers and slaves. And if not for Hashem’s abundant mercy, we could have been cast aside due to our sins. Knowing our history was meant to keep us humble.

A final reason why the locations were mentioned is to learn the lessons of history. We are a unique nation that stands alone. We are meant to be different and not mix with the other nations. We have a unique role to play. The standards expected of the Jewish people are different from what is expected of other nations.

We must cherish our role as the “Chosen People.” And we must cherish the special bond that we have with our Creator. These are the lessons to be learned from our travels in the desert.