The Israelites likely took the route around the southern border of Edom, the land occupied by the people of Esau. On account of the fearfulness amidst the descendants of Esau toward the Israelites, the latter were to proceed with caution through the land.
4 and command the people, “You are about to pass through the territory of your brothers, the people of Esau, who live in Seir; and they will be afraid of you. So be very careful.