Numbers 27:12

Abarim. The word ‘Abarim is in the plural, and probably refers to the range of mountains that form the western rim of the Moabite tableland. Pisgah is an alternate name for Abarim, or refers to the northern section of the range (Deut. 3:27; 34:1). Mt. Nebo is a peak in the northern section (Deut. 32:49; 34:1-4). From the verb “to cross over,” the noun means “ford,” a place suitable for crossing over a stream. Thus the mountains were named Abarim, literally “fords,” because of being situated by the fords across the Jordan River opposite Jericho (cf. Num. 21:11).

See the land. From the elevation of Nebo he commanded a full view of the land of Canaan spread beneath his feet (Deut. 3:17; 34:1-4). Moses already knew that he was not to enter the Promised Land (Num. 20:12). The privilege of seeing Canaan was in answer to his prayer (Deut. 3:24-27).