And they pitched by Jordan, from Beth-jesimoth even unto Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab.
Israel's final encampment before entering Canaan lay in the plains of Moab alongside the Jordan River, stretching from Beth-jesimoth to Abel-shittim. That broad plain along the river was known as the vale of Shittim because acacia trees grew abundantly there. Their shade combined with a warm and pleasant climate to give the camp physical comfort and ease. That same ease tended to foster idleness among the people. At the same time the encampment was ringed by idol worship and moral looseness that brought corrupting influences close to Israel.
Israel's final encampment before entering Canaan lay in the plains of Moab alongside the Jordan River, stretching from Beth-jesimoth to Abel-shittim. That broad plain along the river was known as the vale of Shittim because acacia trees grew abundantly there. Their shade combined with a warm and pleasant climate to give the camp physical comfort and ease. That same ease tended to foster idleness among the people. At the same time the encampment was ringed by idol worship and moral looseness that brought corrupting influences close to Israel.