Translations
Modern
Whether the cloud lingered for two days, a month, or longer, the Israelites camped and did not set out as long as the cloud remained over the tabernacle; but when it was lifted, they would set out.
Traditional
Or whether it were two days, or a month, or a year, that the cloud tarried upon the tabernacle, remaining thereon, the children of Israel abode in their tents, and journeyed not: but when it was taken up, they journeyed.
Literal
Whether it was two days or a month or a year that the cloud remained above the tabernacle, remaining over it, the sons of Israel camped and did not journey; and when it was lifted up, they would journey.
Latin
Si vero biduo aut uno mense vel longiori tempore fuisset super tabernaculum, manebant filii Israël in eodem loco, et non proficiscebantur: statim autem ut recessisset, movebant castra.
Original
Hebrew
English
Whether the cloud lingered for two days, a month, or longer, the Israelites camped and did not set out as long as the cloud remained over the tabernacle; but when it was lifted, they would set out.
Notes
Even Israel's enemies saw the fiery cloud (14:14). This clearly represented God's glorious presence and the way he guided their movement.
This passage is similar to Exodus 40:17, 34–38. It gives more details about how God used the pillar of cloud and fire to lead his people (see also Exodus 13:21–22). The Lord was faithful and clearly guided his people in the wilderness.
Theme notes and profiles
Parallels
People
Israel: Patriarch, son of Isaac, father of twelve tribes
Glossary
Biblical Concept of Law Deuteronomy, Book of Numbers, Book of
Topics
Cloud of Glory was Designed to Regulate the Movements of Israel Cloud: Pillar of Fire: Pillar of Fire God: Preserver in the Wilderness The Theocracy: or Immediate Government by God: Consisted in His: Directing the Movements of the Nation