Location
Overview
This Succoth — distinct from Jacob's Succoth east of the Jordan — was the first stopping place of Israel as they marched out of Egypt.
The first stage of the journey
"And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth" (Exodus 12:37). It was the opening stage of the Exodus, immediately after the Passover and the death of Egypt's firstborn.
Where the pillar appeared
"And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness" (Exodus 13:20) — and from here onward the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.
An itinerary marker
Succoth is duly recorded in the catalogue of Israel's journeys: "they departed from Rameses... and pitched in Succoth" (Numbers 33:5).
Events Here
Israel’s first encampment after leaving Rameses
Scripture References
4 versesExodus2 verses
Exodus 12:37
And the children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children.
Exodus 13:20
And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness.
Numbers2 verses
Numbers 33:5
And the children of Israel removed from Rameses, and pitched in Succoth.
Numbers 33:6
And they departed from Succoth, and pitched in Etham, which is in the edge of the wilderness.
Archaeology & History
The Egyptian Succoth is usually connected with Egyptian Tjeku in the Wadi Tumilat, near Tell el-Maskhuta — a name unrelated to (and a different place from) the Transjordan Succoth where Jacob built booths. Its position fits a first day's march east of the delta capital.
Frequently asked about Succoth (Egypt)
Where is Succoth (Egypt) today?
Today, Succoth (Egypt) corresponds to Tell el-Maskhuta area (Tjeku), Egypt.
What does the name Succoth (Egypt) mean?
The name Succoth (Egypt) means “Booths, shelters”.
What happened at Succoth (Egypt) in the Bible?
Key biblical events at Succoth (Egypt) include israel’s first encampment after leaving rameses.
Where is Succoth (Egypt) first mentioned in the Bible?
Succoth (Egypt) is first mentioned in Exodus 12:37.
How often is Succoth (Egypt) mentioned in the Bible?
Succoth (Egypt) is mentioned in 4 verses across 2 books: Exodus, Numbers.
Is this the same as Jacob’s Succoth?
No. This Succoth is in Egypt, Israel’s first encampment leaving Egypt. Jacob’s Succoth was east of the Jordan in Gilead. They share only the name, which means "booths."
What happened at Succoth in the Exodus?
It was the first stop after leaving Rameses; from there Israel moved on to Etham at the edge of the wilderness, guided by the pillar of cloud and fire.