The flames of fire are lightning (see similar description in 18.13-14). Kadesh is usually identified as the place 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Beersheba, through which the Israelites passed on their way to Canaan (Num 20; 33.36-37). Some, however, think it much more likely that here it is to be identified as Kadesh on the Orontes River, in Syria (see Dahood and New American Bible footnote).

The word translated wilderness or “desert” (Good News Translation) refers to a desolate area that is not cultivated nor inhabited by farming people. Because it is out beyond the limits of where people settle, a wilderness is looked upon as dangerous. It may be inhabited by nomads and their herds, and by wild animals. In the Middle East such areas are treeless but often have grassy patches where herds can graze. In areas where such wildernesses are unknown, translators must often use a descriptive phrase; for example, “rocky region,” “place where no house is,” or “place where people don’t settle.”

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .