Meaning
Etham is a place-name mentioned in the biblical account of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt. Some reference works propose a connection with the Egyptian word khetam, meaning “fortress” or “castle,” but this derivation is uncertain.
Biblical Usage
After leaving Succoth, the Israelites camped at Etham, described as being at the edge of the wilderness (Exodus 13:20). Numbers also records Etham as a stopping place on their journey (Numbers 33:6-8).
The precise location of Etham is uncertain. The proposed connection between its name and the Egyptian word khetam is disputed and should not be treated as an established meaning.
Key References
- Exodus 13:20 — The Israelites camped at Etham at the edge of the wilderness.
- Numbers 33:6 — Etham is recorded as a stopping place after Succoth.
- Numbers 33:7-8 — The journey continues toward the area of Pi-hahiroth and the sea.
Related Terms
- Succoth — A place where the Israelites camped before Etham.
- Wilderness — A sparsely inhabited or uncultivated region.
- Pi-hahiroth — A place mentioned in the account of Israel’s departure from Egypt.
- Marah — A place reached during the wilderness journey.