What Was Travelers Valley in the Bible?
The Valley of the Travelers: A Prophetic Landmark
The phrase “Travelers Valley,” mentioned in Ezekiel 39:11, refers to a specific geographical location near Dibon, in the region of Moab. In the King James Version (KJV), it is translated as the “Valley of the Passengers,” while the New International Version (NIV) refers to it as the “Valley of the Travelers.” The Hebrew term for this valley is “עֵמֶק הָעֲבָרִים” (Emek ha-Avrim), which emphasizes its role as a passageway for those journeying through the land.
The Context of the Valley in Ezekiel’s Prophecy
In the Bible, the Valley of the Travelers is specifically mentioned in Ezekiel 39:11, which states: “On that day I will give Gog a burial place in Israel, in the Valley of the Travelers east of the sea. It will block the way of the travelers, because Gog and all his hordes will be buried there. So it will be called the Valley of Hamon Gog” (NIV). This passage is part of a larger prophecy concerning the defeat of Gog and his allies, who are depicted as coming against God’s people in a climactic battle.
The Valley of the Travelers is prophesied to become a burial ground for the defeated armies of Gog. The name “Hamon Gog” means “the multitude of Gog,” signifying the vast number of enemies that will be buried there. The prophecy highlights the ultimate victory of God over the forces that oppose Him and His people, emphasizing that even the mightiest of armies cannot stand against the sovereign will of God.
The Geographical and Historical Significance of the Valley
Geographically, the Valley of the Travelers would have been a strategic location, likely serving as a common route for those passing through the region of Moab. Valleys in biblical times were often used as travel routes because of their relatively flat terrain, which made them easier to navigate than the surrounding hills and mountains. The association of this valley with travelers suggests it was a well-known landmark, possibly frequented by merchants, soldiers, and others journeying between regions.
Historically, Dibon, located near the Valley of the Travelers, was a significant city in Moab. It is mentioned multiple times in the Old Testament, including in Numbers 21:30 and Isaiah 15:2. The city was known for its strength and prominence in the region, and the valley nearby would have been a critical point of passage for those traveling to and from Dibon.
Lessons for the Modern Christian
The Assurance of God’s Sovereignty and Justice
The Valley of the Travelers, as depicted in Ezekiel 39:11, serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and justice. The prophecy of Gog’s defeat and the subsequent burial of his armies in this valley demonstrates that no power, no matter how formidable, can ultimately prevail against God. For modern Christians, this assures us that God is in control of all circumstances, even when facing opposition or adversity. Romans 8:31 echoes this truth: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (ESV). The Valley of the Travelers encourages believers to trust in God’s justice and His ultimate plan for victory over evil.
The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The battle involving Gog, as described in Ezekiel, represents the larger spiritual warfare that believers face. The Valley of the Travelers, where Gog’s armies are defeated and buried, symbolizes the inevitable triumph of God’s kingdom over the forces of darkness. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (ESV). This valley, therefore, serves as a metaphor for the spiritual battles that Christians face, and the confidence we can have in God’s ultimate victory.
The Importance of Remembering God’s Past Victories
The Valley of the Travelers was prophesied to become a memorial to God’s victory over Gog and his allies. For Christians today, it is important to remember the victories that God has already won in our lives. Whether these victories are over personal sin, external opposition, or spiritual struggles, they serve as reminders of God’s faithfulness and power. Psalm 77:11 encourages us, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old” (ESV). Just as the Valley of the Travelers would have been a physical reminder of God’s deliverance, we are called to remember and give thanks for the ways God has worked in our lives.
Connection to a Loving God
God’s Protection of His People
The prophecy concerning the Valley of the Travelers emphasizes God’s protective nature. The fact that God orchestrates the defeat of Gog’s armies and the burial of their remains in this valley shows His commitment to defending His people from their enemies. Psalm 91:4 beautifully captures this aspect of God’s character: “He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler” (ESV). The Valley of the Travelers, therefore, is a symbol of God’s protective care over His people, ensuring their safety and security in the midst of danger.
God’s Justice in Bringing About Victory
The burial of Gog’s armies in the Valley of the Travelers is a manifestation of God’s justice. Throughout Scripture, God is portrayed as a righteous judge who brings about justice for His people. Deuteronomy 32:4 declares, “The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he” (ESV). The events in the Valley of the Travelers affirm that God’s justice will ultimately prevail, offering hope and assurance to believers who trust in His righteous judgments.
Connection to Jesus Christ
The Ultimate Victory in Christ
The prophecy of the Valley of the Travelers points forward to the ultimate victory achieved through Jesus Christ. Just as God brought about the defeat of Gog and his armies, so too has Christ defeated the forces of sin and death through His death and resurrection. Colossians 2:15 proclaims, “He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him” (ESV). The Valley of the Travelers serves as a foreshadowing of Christ’s triumph over evil, reminding us that in Him, we have the victory.
The Final Judgment and the Establishment of God’s Kingdom
The burial of Gog’s forces in the Valley of the Travelers can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the final judgment, when all opposition to God’s kingdom will be vanquished. Revelation 20:10 describes the ultimate defeat of Satan and his forces: “And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (ESV). The events in the Valley of the Travelers prefigure this final judgment, pointing to the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom where righteousness will dwell.
Conclusion
The Valley of the Travelers, though briefly mentioned in the Bible, carries profound significance both historically and symbolically. It represents the ultimate victory of God over the forces of evil and serves as a reminder of His justice, protection, and faithfulness. For modern Christians, the Valley of the Travelers encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty, remember His past victories, and find confidence in the ultimate triumph we have in Jesus Christ. As we journey through life, may we be reminded that, just as God was victorious in the Valley of the Travelers, He will be victorious in every battle we face, securing our place in His eternal kingdom.
References:
– Ezekiel 39:11 : On that day I will give Gog a burial place in Israel, in the valley of those who travel east toward the Sea. It will block the way of travelers, because Gog and all his hordes will be buried there. So it will be called the Valley of Hamon Gog.