King James Version
Joshua 15
63 verses with commentary
Judah's Territory
This then was the lot of the tribe of the children of Judah by their families; even to the border of Edom the wilderness of Zin southward was the uttermost part of the south coast.
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KJV Study Commentary
Judah's inheritance: 'This then was the lot of the tribe of the children of Judah by their families; even to the border of Edom the wilderness of Zin southward was the uttermost part of the south coast.' Judah, receiving the first territorial allocation (after Transjordan tribes), holds pride of place—the royal tribe from which Messiah would descend (Genesis 49:10). The southern boundary extended ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
XV.
(1) **This then was the lot.**—Rather, *And the lot came to the tribe of Judah. *We might perhaps better begin this section with the last sentence of Joshua 14, and read thus: “And the land had rest from war; and the lot fell to the tribe of Judah (i.e., the tribe of Judah received its allotment), according to their families.”
The question arises at this point how the position of the tribes of...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**24-26. Joshua, and all Israel with him, took Achan--**He with his children and all his property, cattle as well as movables, were brought into one of the long broad ravines that open into the Ghor, and after being stoned to death (Nu 15:30-35), his corpse, with all belonging to him, was consumed to ashes by fire. "All Israel" was present, not only as spectators, but active agents, as many as pos...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And their south border was from the shore of the salt sea, from the bay that looketh southward: bay: Heb. tongue
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And their south border was from the shore of the salt sea, from the bay that looketh southward.</strong> The precise demarcation of Judah's southern boundary begins at the <em>Yam ha-Melach</em> (יָם הַמֶּלַח, "Salt Sea"), the Dead Sea, Earth's lowest point at 1,410 feet below sea level. The phrase "the bay that looketh southward" (literally "the tongue turning southward," <em>lashon</em>,...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **Their south border.**—The southern boundary of Judah is thus described by Conder (*Bible Handbook, *p. 257):—“The south boundary of Judah is described from east to west, and became afterwards that of Simeon (see Joshua 19:1). Although the points mentioned along the border are not all certainly known, there is no doubt that the great mountain wall which extends from the Dead Sea to the water-...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**24-26. Joshua, and all Israel with him, took Achan--**He with his children and all his property, cattle as well as movables, were brought into one of the long broad ravines that open into the Ghor, and after being stoned to death (Nu 15:30-35), his corpse, with all belonging to him, was consumed to ashes by fire. "All Israel" was present, not only as spectators, but active agents, as many as pos...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And it went out to the south side to Maalehacrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and ascended up on the south side unto Kadeshbarnea, and passed along to Hezron, and went up to Adar, and fetched a compass to Karkaa: Maalehacrebbim: or, the going up to Acrabbim
View commentary (2 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And it went out to the south side to Maaleh-acrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and ascended up on the south side unto Kadesh-barnea.</strong> The boundary's westward progression traces crucial wilderness landmarks. <em>Maaleh-Acrabbim</em> (מַעֲלֵה עַקְרַבִּים) means "Ascent of Scorpions"—a steep, dangerous pass infested with scorpions, located in the Arabah valley south of the Dead Sea. T...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →From thence it passed toward Azmon, and went out unto the river of Egypt; and the goings out of that coast were at the sea: this shall be your south coast.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>From thence it passed toward Azmon, and went out unto the river of Egypt; and the goings out of that coast were at the sea: this shall be your south coast.</strong> The southern boundary concludes at the Mediterranean, having traced from the Dead Sea through the Negev. <em>Azmon</em> (עַצְמוֹן) was likely a fortress settlement in the southwestern Negev. The "river of Egypt" (<em>nachal Mit...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(4) **This shall be your south coast.**—This phrase does not seem to fit in with the language of the rest of the passage. But it is extremely like a reminiscence of the language of Moses in Numbers 34:3; Numbers 34:6; Numbers 34:9; Numbers 34:12. “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth” was the instruction to Joshua, and in describing the border of Judah, he is really describing al...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 8 Jos 8:1-28. God Encourages Joshua.
**1-2. The Lord said unto Joshua, Fear not--**By the execution of justice on Achan, the divine wrath was averted, the Israelites were reassured, defeat was succeeded by victory; and thus the case of Ai affords a striking example of God's disciplinary government, in which chastisements for sin are often made to pave the way for the bestowment of those t...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the east border was the salt sea, even unto the end of Jordan. And their border in the north quarter was from the bay of the sea at the uttermost part of Jordan:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the east border was the salt sea, even unto the end of Jordan. And their border in the north quarter was from the bay of the sea at the uttermost part of Jordan.</strong> The eastern boundary uses the Dead Sea as a natural barrier, extending northward to where the Jordan River empties into it. The Hebrew emphasizes totality: "unto the end (<em>qetseh</em>, קְצֵה) of Jordan"—the river's...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(5) **Their border in the north quarter.**—This can be followed with the Ordnance Survey of Palestine, and is described by Conder in the following way:—“It started from the Jordan mouth, but did not apparently follow the river, as Beth Arabah (unknown) and Beth Hogla (*’Ain Hajlah, *about two miles west of Jordan—sheet 18) belonged to Benjamin. Passing along the valley of Achor (*Wâdy Kelt*)*, *it...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 8 Jos 8:1-28. God Encourages Joshua.
**1-2. The Lord said unto Joshua, Fear not--**By the execution of justice on Achan, the divine wrath was averted, the Israelites were reassured, defeat was succeeded by victory; and thus the case of Ai affords a striking example of God's disciplinary government, in which chastisements for sin are often made to pave the way for the bestowment of those t...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the border went up to Bethhogla, and passed along by the north of Betharabah; and the border went up to the stone of Bohan the son of Reuben:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the border went up to Beth-hogla, and passed along by the north of Beth-arabah; and the border went up to the stone of Bohan the son of Reuben.</strong> The northern boundary's progression includes significant landmarks. <em>Beth-Hoglah</em> (בֵּית חָגְלָה, "House of the Partridge") was a settlement near the Jordan, probably named for local bird populations. <em>Beth-Arabah</em> (בֵּית...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**3. So Joshua ... chose out thirty thousand mighty men of valour--**Joshua despatched thirty thousand men under cover of night, to station themselves at the place appointed for the ambuscade. Out of this number a detachment of five thousand was sent forward to conceal themselves in the immediate precincts of the town, in order to seize the first opportunity of throwing themselves into it [Jos 8:1...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the border went up toward Debir from the valley of Achor, and so northward, looking toward Gilgal, that is before the going up to Adummim, which is on the south side of the river: and the border passed toward the waters of Enshemesh, and the goings out thereof were at Enrogel:
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the border went up toward Debir from the valley of Achor, and so northward, looking toward Gilgal, that is before the going up to Adummim, which is on the south side of the river.</strong> This verse traces the boundary through historically charged locations. The <em>Valley of Achor</em> (עֵמֶק עָכוֹר, "Valley of Trouble") memorializes Achan's execution for theft during Jericho's conqu...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**4. behind the city--**is rendered (Jos 8:9), "on the west side of Ai."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same is Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that lieth before the valley of Hinnom westward, which is at the end of the valley of the giants northward:
View commentary (2 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same is Jerusalem.</strong> The boundary approaches Jerusalem through the <em>Valley of Ben-Hinnom</em> (גֵּי בֶן־הִנֹּם), which became <em>Gehenna</em> (γέεννα) in Greek—the New Testament term for hell. This valley's dark history includes child sacrifice to Molech during Israel's apostasy (2...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the border was drawn from the top of the hill unto the fountain of the water of Nephtoah, and went out to the cities of mount Ephron; and the border was drawn to Baalah, which is Kirjathjearim:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the border was drawn from the top of the hill unto the fountain of the water of Nephtoah, and went out to the cities of mount Ephron; and the border was drawn to Baalah, which is Kirjath-jearim.</strong> The boundary continues from Jerusalem's heights to the <em>Fountain of Nephtoah</em> (מֵי נֶפְתּוֹחַ, "Waters of Opening/Unfolding"), likely the spring at modern Lifta northwest of Jer...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(9) **Kirjath-jearim** is by Conder identified as *’Arma *(spelt *’Erma *on the Ordnance map), four miles east of Beth-shemesh (*’Ain Shemes, *or *Shems*)*.*
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the border compassed from Baalah westward unto mount Seir, and passed along unto the side of mount Jearim, which is Chesalon, on the north side, and went down to Bethshemesh, and passed on to Timnah:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the border compassed from Baalah westward unto mount Seir, and passed along unto the side of mount Jearim, which is Chesalon, on the north side, and went down to Beth-shemesh, and passed on to Timnah.</strong> The boundary curves (<em>nasav</em>, נָסַב, "compassed" or "turned") westward from Kirjath-jearim toward the Shephelah (foothills). <em>Mount Seir</em> here refers to a ridge in ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) **Mount Seir.**—Of course, entirely distinct from the place in Edom, but not precisely identified.
**Chesalon** is identified with *Kesla, *two and a quarter miles due north of *Khurbet ’Erma, *on sheet 17 Timnah is *Tibneh *(on sheet 16).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the border went out unto the side of Ekron northward: and the border was drawn to Shicron, and passed along to mount Baalah, and went out unto Jabneel; and the goings out of the border were at the sea.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the border went out unto the side of Ekron northward: and the border was drawn to Shicron, and passed along to mount Baalah, and went out unto Jabneel; and the goings out of the border were at the sea.</strong> The boundary reaches <em>Ekron</em> (עֶקְרוֹן), one of the five principal Philistine cities (pentapolis) along with Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, and Gath. Ekron's inclusion "northwar...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(11) **Ekron** is *Akir *(on sheet 16). Here we are in the Shephêlah, or plain of the sea-coast.
**Jabneel** is *Yebnah, *west of Ekron, nearer the sea.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And the west border was to the great sea, and the coast thereof. This is the coast of the children of Judah round about according to their families.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the west border was to the great sea, and the coast thereof. This is the coast of the children of Judah round about according to their families.</strong> The western boundary uses the Mediterranean as a natural, permanent barrier. The phrase "the great sea" (<em>ha-yam ha-gadol</em>, הַיָּם הַגָּדוֹל) reflects ancient Israelite perspective—for inland, non-seafaring people, the Mediterr...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**9. between Beth-el and Ai--**Beth-el, though lying quite near in the direction of west by north, cannot be seen from Tell-el-hajar; two rocky heights rise between both places, in the wady El-Murogede, just as the laying of an ambush to the west of Ai would require [Van De Velde; Robinson].
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
The borders of the lot of Judah.(1-12)
Caleb's portion, His daughter's blessing.(13-19)
The cities of Judah.(20-63)
**Verses 1-12**
Joshua allotted to Judah, Ephraim, and the half of Manasseh, their inheritances before they left Gilgal. Afterwards removing to Shiloh, another survey was made, and the other tribes had their portion assigned. In due ti...
Read full commentary →And unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh he gave a part among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the LORD to Joshua, even the city of Arba the father of Anak, which city is Hebron. the city: or, Kirjatharba
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KJV Study Commentary
Caleb's specific inheritance: 'And unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh he gave a part among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the LORD to Joshua, even the city of Arba the father of Anak, which city is Hebron.' This fulfills God's specific promise to Caleb (14:9-13). Hebron, named after Arba (greatest of the Anakim, verse 14), represented formidable opposition—the very giants that...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13-19) **And unto Caleb . . . **This paragraph occurs also in Judges 1:10-15, with some slight variations. Which is its original place? In Judges it is connected with the continuation of the conquest of Canaan by the tribe of Judah *after Joshua’s death, *and there we read they slew (literally, *smote*) Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai. If this is the death, and not merely the defeat of the Anakim...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10. Joshua ... numbered the people--**that is, the detachment of liers-in-wait; he did this, to be furnished with clear evidence afterwards, that the work had been done without any loss of men, whereby the people's confidence in God would be strengthened and encouragement given them to prosecute the war of invasion with vigor.
**he and the elders of Israel--**the chief magistrates and rulers, ...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →And Caleb drove thence the three sons of Anak, Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak.
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KJV Study Commentary
Caleb's victory: 'And Caleb drove thence the three sons of Anak, Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak.' The eighty-five-year-old warrior defeats the three Anakim leaders personally or through his leadership. These were descendants of the giants that terrified Israel forty-five years earlier. The specific naming (Sheshai, Ahiman, Talmai) personalizes the victory—not abstract 'giant...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-14. there was a valley between them and Ai--**literally, "the valley."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →And he went up thence to the inhabitants of Debir: and the name of Debir before was Kirjathsepher.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And he went up thence to the inhabitants of Debir: and the name of Debir before was Kirjath-sepher.</strong> Following Hebron's conquest (v. 14), Caleb advances to <em>Debir</em> (דְּבִר, meaning "sanctuary" or "inner chamber"), located in the hill country southwest of Hebron. The city's former name, <em>Kirjath-Sepher</em> (קִרְיַת־סֵפֶר, "City of the Book/Scroll"), suggests it was a cent...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-14. there was a valley between them and Ai--**literally, "the valley."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kirjathsepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Caleb said, He that smiteth Kirjath-sepher, and taketh it, to him will I give Achsah my daughter to wife.</strong> Caleb offers his daughter <em>Achsah</em> (עַכְסָה, possibly meaning "anklet" or "adorned") as reward for conquering Debir/Kirjath-sepher. This practice—offering daughters in marriage to warriors who accomplish difficult military feats—appears elsewhere in Scripture (Saul'...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-14. there was a valley between them and Ai--**literally, "the valley."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →And Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.</strong> <em>Othniel</em> (עָתְנִיאֵל, "God is my strength" or "Lion of God") meets Caleb's challenge, conquering Debir and winning Achsah. Described as "son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb," Othniel was either Caleb's younger brother (making him Achsah's uncle) or more likely Caleb's n...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11-14. there was a valley between them and Ai--**literally, "the valley."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →And it came to pass, as she came unto him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted off her ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou?
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And it came to pass, as she came unto him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted off her ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou?</strong> This verse reveals Achsah's wisdom and initiative. The phrase "she moved him" (<em>tasitehu</em>, תְּסִיתֵהוּ, from <em>sut</em>, סוּת, "to incite" or "persuade") indicates Achsah encouraged Othniel to request additio...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**15-17. Joshua and all Israel made as if they were beaten before them--**the pretended flight in the direction of the wilderness; that is, southeast, into the Ghor, the desert valley of the Jordan, decoyed all the inhabitants of Ai out of the city, while the people of Beth-el hastened to participate in the expected victory. It is supposed by some, from "the city," and not "cities," being spoken o...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs.</strong> Achsah's request demonstrates theological insight wrapped in practical need. Her opening, "Give me a blessing" (<em>tenah li berachah</em>, תְּנָה־לִּי בְרָכָה), frames the petition spiritually—she seeks not mere property ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**15-17. Joshua and all Israel made as if they were beaten before them--**the pretended flight in the direction of the wilderness; that is, southeast, into the Ghor, the desert valley of the Jordan, decoyed all the inhabitants of Ai out of the city, while the people of Beth-el hastened to participate in the expected victory. It is supposed by some, from "the city," and not "cities," being spoken o...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 13-19**
Achsah obtained some land by Caleb's free grant. He gave her a south land. Land indeed, but a south land, dry and apt to be parched. She obtained more, on her request, and he gave the upper and the nether springs. Those who understand it but of one field, watered both with the rain of heaven, and the springs that issued out of the earth, countenance the allusion commonly made ...
Read full commentary →This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families.
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families</strong>—this transitional verse marks the shift from boundary descriptions (vv. 1-12) to the detailed city lists that follow. The Hebrew <em>nachalah</em> (נַחֲלָה, "inheritance") denotes permanent family possession passed generationally, not temporary military occupation. This wasn't merely real est...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**15-17. Joshua and all Israel made as if they were beaten before them--**the pretended flight in the direction of the wilderness; that is, southeast, into the Ghor, the desert valley of the Jordan, decoyed all the inhabitants of Ai out of the city, while the people of Beth-el hastened to participate in the expected victory. It is supposed by some, from "the city," and not "cities," being spoken o...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward</strong>—the phrase <em>ha'arim miqtseh</em> (הֶעָרִים מִקְצֵה, "the uttermost cities") describes the southernmost settlements along Judah's border with Edom. These frontier towns protected against Edomite incursions and controlled trade routes through the Negev. <strong>Kabzeel</strong> means...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(21) **And the uttermost cities.**—The cities of the tribe of Judah are given under four heads: (*a*)* towards Edom; *(b)* in the Shephêlah, *or plain of the coast (Joshua 15:33, &c.); (c) *in the mountains *(Joshua 15:48); (*d*)* in the wilderness *(Joshua 15:61).
**Of **those in Joshua 15:21-32, the first twenty-nine, Conder identifies only four—viz., Adadah, Joshua 15:22 (*Ad’adah*)*; *Kerioth ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah</strong>—these three cities continue the southern district listing. <strong>Kinah</strong> (קִינָה, possibly from <em>qinah</em>, "lamentation" or <em>qen</em>, "nest") may refer to a settlement in a protected location. <strong>Dimonah</strong> is possibly identical to Dibon mentioned in Nehemiah 11:25, rebuilt after the exile. <strong>Adadah</strong> (עֲ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Kedesh, and Hazor, and Ithnan,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Kedesh, and Hazor, and Ithnan</strong>—<strong>Kedesh</strong> (קֶדֶשׁ, "holy place" or "sanctuary") was a common name in Israel; this southern Kedesh differs from the more famous Kedesh in Naphtali (a city of refuge). The name indicates a location set apart, possibly for worship or having sacred associations. <strong>Hazor</strong> (חָצוֹר, "enclosure" or "village") also appears multi...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth</strong>—<strong>Ziph</strong> (זִיף) appears elsewhere as a city in Judah's hill country (v. 55) where David hid from Saul (1 Samuel 23:14-15; 26:2); this southern Ziph may be a different location with the same name. <strong>Telem</strong> (טֶלֶם, "oppression" or "lamb") was later mentioned as one of Saul's clan cities (1 Samuel 15:4; 27:8). <strong>Bealoth</s...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Hazor, Hadattah, and Kerioth, and Hezron, which is Hazor,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Hazor, Hadattah, and Kerioth, and Hezron, which is Hazor</strong>—this verse demonstrates the complexity of ancient naming conventions. <strong>Hazor, Hadattah</strong> (חָצוֹר חֲדַתָּה) likely means "New Hazor," with <em>chadattah</em> from <em>chadash</em> ("new"), distinguishing it from other settlements named Hazor. <strong>Kerioth</strong> (קְרִיּוֹת, "cities," plural of <em>qirya...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Amam, and Shema, and Moladah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Amam, and Shema, and Moladah</strong>—these three cities continue Judah's southern district. <strong>Amam</strong> (עֲמָם) remains unidentified but may derive from <em>am</em> ("people"), possibly meaning "gathering place." <strong>Shema</strong> (שֶׁמַע, "hearing" or "fame") may have been named for significant events heard about there, or the name might indicate obedience to God's voice (...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Hazargaddah, and Heshmon, and Bethpalet,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Hazar-gaddah, and Heshmon, and Beth-palet</strong>—<strong>Hazar-gaddah</strong> (חֲצַר גַּדָּה, "enclosure of Gaddah" or "village of good fortune") combines <em>chatsir</em> ("enclosure," "village," or "court") with <em>gaddah</em>, possibly related to Gad (the deity of fortune) or simply "good fortune." Like Bealoth (v. 24), this name may indicate a former pagan site cleansed and rep...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Hazarshual, and Beersheba, and Bizjothjah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Hazar-shual, and Beer-sheba, and Bizjothjah</strong>—<strong>Hazar-shual</strong> (חֲצַר שׁוּעָל, "enclosure of jackals" or "jackal village") vividly describes the wilderness character of this region where jackals roamed. This city appears in Simeon's inheritance (Joshua 19:3) and post-exilic resettlement (Nehemiah 11:27). <strong>Beer-sheba</strong> (בְּאֵר שֶׁבַע, "well of seven" or ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-25. Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city--**The uplifted spear had probably a flag, or streamer on it, to render it the more conspicuous from the height where he stood. At the sight of this understood signal the ambush nearest the city, informed by their scouts, made a sudden rush and took possession of the city, telegraphing to their brethren by raising a sm...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Baalah, and Iim, and Azem,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Baalah, and Iim, and Azem</strong>—<strong>Baalah</strong> (בַּעֲלָה, "mistress" or "lady," feminine form of Baal) indicates another former Canaanite cult site, possibly dedicated to a goddess. Like Bealoth (v. 24), this name shows Israel inheriting and transforming pagan sacred sites. <strong>Iim</strong> (עִיִּים, "ruins" or "heaps") or possibly "Iyim" suggests either ancient ruins or a ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**26. Joshua drew not his hand back--**Perhaps, from the long continuance of the posture, it might have been a means appointed by God, to animate the people, and kept up in the same devout spirit as Moses had shown, in lifting up his hands, until the work of slaughter had been completed--the ban executed. (See on Ex 17:10).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Eltolad, and Chesil, and Hormah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Eltolad, and Chesil, and Hormah</strong>—<strong>Eltolad</strong> (אֶלְתּוֹלַד, "God's generation" or "kindred of God") appears also in Simeon's inheritance (Joshua 19:4). <strong>Chesil</strong> (כְּסִיל, "fool" or possibly "confidence") may be the same as Bethul in Joshua 19:4. <strong>Hormah</strong> (חָרְמָה, "devoted to destruction" or "ban") has significant history—originally cal...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Ziklag, and Madmannah, and Sansannah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Ziklag, and Madmannah, and Sansannah</strong>—<strong>Ziklag</strong> (צִקְלַג) became one of Scripture's most important southern cities. Though originally assigned to Judah, it later belonged to Philistine Gath. King Achish gave it to David when he fled from Saul (1 Samuel 27:6), and it remained Judah's possession thereafter. David's emotional connection to Ziklag intensified when Ama...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**28. Joshua burnt Ai, and made it an heap for ever--**"For ever" often signifies "a long time" (Ge 6:3). One of the remarkable things with regard to the tell we have identified with Ai is its name--the tell of the heap of stones--a name which to this day remains [Van De Velde].
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Lebaoth, and Shilhim, and Ain, and Rimmon: all the cities are twenty and nine, with their villages:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Lebaoth, and Shilhim, and Ain, and Rimmon: all the cities are twenty and nine, with their villages</strong>—<strong>Lebaoth</strong> (לְבָאוֹת, "lionesses") appears only here, suggesting a place where lions or lionesses were common. <strong>Shilhim</strong> (שִׁלְחִים) is unidentified. <strong>Ain</strong> (עַיִן, "spring" or "fountain") indicates a water source, vital in the Negev. <s...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 8:29. The King Hanged.
**29. The king of Ai he hanged on a tree until eventide--**that is, gibbeted. In ancient, and particularly Oriental wars, the chiefs, when taken prisoners, were usually executed. The Israelites were obliged, by the divine law, to put them to death. The execution of the king of Ai would tend to facilitate the conquest of the land, by striking terror into the other chiefs...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And in the valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And in the valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah</strong>—this verse begins the second district of Judah's inheritance: the Shephelah (שְׁפֵלָה, <em>shephelah</em>), meaning "lowland" or "valley." This region consists of foothills between the coastal plain and Judah's central highlands, characterized by fertile valleys ideal for agriculture. <strong>Eshtaol</strong> (אֶשְׁתָּאֹל) and <st...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(33) **In the valley**—*i.e., *the Shephêlah, or plain of the coast. Of the fourteen that follow in Joshua 15:33-36, Conder identifies ten.
**Eshtaol, and Zoreah,** were afterwards assigned *to *Dan (Joshua 19:41).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**30-31. Then Joshua built an altar unto the Lord God of Israel in mount Ebal--**(See on De 27:11). This spot was little short of twenty miles from Ai. The march through a hostile country and the unmolested performance of the religious ceremonial observed at this mountain, would be greatly facilitated, through the blessing of God, by the disastrous fall of Ai. The solemn duty was to be attended to...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Zanoah, and Engannim, Tappuah, and Enam,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Zanoah, and En-gannim, Tappuah, and Enam</strong>—<strong>Zanoah</strong> (זָנוֹחַ, "rejected" or "cast off") appears twice in Judah (here and v. 56 in the hill country), indicating different settlements. The name may commemorate rejection of former Canaanite inhabitants or describe a remote location. <strong>En-gannim</strong> (עֵין גַּנִּים, "spring of gardens") beautifully describes...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**30-31. Then Joshua built an altar unto the Lord God of Israel in mount Ebal--**(See on De 27:11). This spot was little short of twenty miles from Ai. The march through a hostile country and the unmolested performance of the religious ceremonial observed at this mountain, would be greatly facilitated, through the blessing of God, by the disastrous fall of Ai. The solemn duty was to be attended to...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Jarmuth, and Adullam, Socoh, and Azekah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Jarmuth, and Adullam, Socoh, and Azekah</strong>—these four cities represent major strategic locations in the Shephelah. <strong>Jarmuth</strong> (יַרְמוּת) was one of five Amorite cities whose kings attacked Gibeon and were defeated by Joshua in the famous battle where the sun stood still (Joshua 10:3-5, 23). <strong>Adullam</strong> (עֲדֻלָּם, "refuge" or "retreat") became David's strong...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**32. he wrote there upon the stones a copy of the law of Moses--**(See on De 27:2, 3, 5); that is, the blessings and curses of the law. Some think that the stones which contained this inscription were the stones of the altar: but this verse seems rather to indicate that a number of stone pillars were erected alongside of the altar, and on which, after they were plastered, this duplicate of the la...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages: and Gederothaim: or, or Gederothaim
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages</strong>—<strong>Sharaim</strong> (שַׁעֲרַיִם, "two gates" or "double gate") appears in 1 Samuel 17:52, where the Israelites pursued fleeing Philistines after David killed Goliath "to the valley, and to the gates of Ekron. And the wounded of the Philistines fell down by the way to Shaaraim." The du...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**33. all Israel, and their elders, and officers, and their judges, stood on this side the ark and on that side--**One half of Israel was arranged on Gerizim, and the other half on Ebal--along the sides and base of each.
**before the priests the Levites--**in full view of them.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Zenan, and Hadashah, and Migdalgad,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Zenan, and Hadashah, and Migdal-gad,</strong><br><br>This verse begins the second district of cities in the Shephelah (lowlands) allotted to Judah. <strong>Zenan</strong> (צְעָנָן, <em>tse'anan</em>) likely derives from a root meaning "pointed" or "sharp," possibly describing a geographical feature. The name may be identical with Zaanan mentioned in Micah 1:11, where its inhabitants are wa...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**34. afterward he read all the words of the law--**caused the priests or Levites to read it (De 27:14). Persons are often said in Scripture to do that which they only command to be done.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Dilean, and Mizpeh, and Joktheel,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Dilean, and Mizpeh, and Joktheel,</strong><br><br><strong>Dilean</strong> (דִּלְעָן, <em>dil'an</em>) is of uncertain etymology, possibly related to a root meaning "cucumber" or "gourd," perhaps indicating agricultural character. This city appears only here in Scripture, exemplifying how most ancient settlements remain known only through administrative lists, their stories lost to hist...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**35. There was not a word of all that Moses commanded, which Joshua read not--**It appears that a much larger portion of the law was read on this occasion than the brief summary inscribed on the stones; and this must have been the essence of the law as contained in Deuteronomy (De 4:44; 6:9; 27:8). It was not written on the stones, but on the plaster. The immediate design of this rehearsal was at...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Lachish, and Bozkath, and Eglon,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Lachish, and Bozkath, and Eglon,</strong><br><br><strong>Lachish</strong> (לָכִישׁ, <em>lachish</em>) ranks among Canaan's most important cities, second only to Jerusalem in Judah. Archaeological excavations have uncovered massive fortifications, a palace-fort, and the famous Lachish Letters—ostraca providing insight into Judean military affairs before Babylon's conquest. The city's captur...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Cabbon, and Lahmam, and Kithlish,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Cabbon, and Lahmam, and Kithlish,</strong><br><br>These three cities remain archaeologically unidentified, their precise locations lost to history despite biblical preservation of their names. <strong>Cabbon</strong> (כַּבּוֹן, <em>kabbon</em>) may derive from a root meaning "hilly" or relate to <em>kabash</em> (כָּבַשׁ, "to subdue"), possibly indicating a conquered stronghold. The unc...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
CHAPTER 9 Jos 9:1-27. The Kings Combine against Israel.
**1. all the kings which were on this side--**that is, the western side of Jordan.
**in the hills, and in ther valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea--**This threefold distinction marks out very clearly a large portion of Canaan. The first designates the hill country, which belonged afterwards to the tribes of Judah and Ephraim: t...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Gederoth, Bethdagon, and Naamah, and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their villages:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Gederoth, Beth-dagon, and Naamah, and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their villages:</strong><br><br><strong>Gederoth</strong> (גְּדֵרוֹת, <em>gederot</em>) means "walls" or "sheepfolds" (plural of <em>geder</em>, גָּדֵר), suggesting either a fortified settlement or pastoral economy. The name appears in 2 Chronicles 28:18 among cities the Philistines captured during Ahaz's reign, demons...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(41) Of the sixteen towns in Joshua 15:37-41, Conder identifies seven.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**2. they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord--**Although divided by separate interests and often at war with each other, a sense of common danger prompted them to suspend their mutual animosities, that by their united forces they might prevent the land from falling into the hands of foreign masters.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Libnah, and Ether, and Ashan,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Libnah, and Ether, and Ashan,</strong><br><br><strong>Libnah</strong> (לִבְנָה, <em>libnah</em>) means "whiteness," possibly describing limestone formations, white buildings, or chalky soil characteristic of the site. This city achieved prominence in Israel's history as a Levitical city (21:13) and the birthplace of two Judean queens (2 Kings 8:22; 19:8; 23:31; 24:18). Joshua captured Libn...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Jiphtah, and Ashnah, and Nezib,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Jiphtah, and Ashnah, and Nezib,</strong><br><br><strong>Jiphtah</strong> (יִפְתָּח, <em>yiphtach</em>) means "He (God) opens," from the verb <em>pathach</em> (פָּתַח, "to open"). This name testifies to divine action—God opens doors, wombs, opportunities, and understanding. The same root appears in the name Jephthah (Judges 11), though this city and that judge are unrelated. The theolog...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Keilah, and Achzib, and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages:
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Keilah, and Achzib, and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages:</strong><br><br><strong>Keilah</strong> (קְעִילָה, <em>qe'ilah</em>) achieved fame as the city David rescued from Philistine attack (1 Samuel 23:1-13). Despite David's deliverance, Keilah's citizens would have betrayed him to Saul—a sobering example of how fear and self-interest can overcome gratitude and justice. The n...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(44) Of the nine towns in Joshua 15:42-44, Conder identifies five.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Ekron, with her towns and her villages:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Ekron, with her towns and her villages:</strong><br><br><strong>Ekron</strong> (עֶקְרוֹן, <em>eqron</em>) was the northernmost of the five principal Philistine cities, meaning "emigration" or "eradication." Despite its assignment to Judah here and its capture by Judah (Judges 1:18), Ekron remained predominantly Philistine throughout most of Israelite history. The city's god Baal-zebub (בַּ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(45) Ekron was afterwards given to Dan (Joshua 19:43).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
From Ekron even unto the sea, all that lay near Ashdod, with their villages: near: Heb. by the place of
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>From Ekron even unto the sea, all that lay near Ashdod, with their villages:</strong><br><br>This verse describes Judah's western boundary, extending from <strong>Ekron</strong> (the northernmost Philistine city) westward to the Mediterranean Sea ("the great sea," הַיָּם הַגָּדוֹל, <em>hayam hagadol</em>). The phrase "all that lay near Ashdod" (כֹּל אֲשֶׁר עַל־יַד אַשְׁדּוֹד, <em>kol asher...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(46, 47) Ekron, Ashdod, and Gaza are all identified. Observe that the Philistine territory is assigned to Judah here.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Ashdod with her towns and her villages, Gaza with her towns and her villages, unto the river of Egypt, and the great sea, and the border thereof:
View commentary (3 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Ashdod with her towns and her villages, Gaza with her towns and her villages, unto the river of Egypt, and the great sea, and the border thereof:</strong><br><br>This verse climaxes Judah's western boundary description, explicitly naming <strong>Ashdod</strong> and <strong>Gaza</strong> (עַזָּה, <em>azzah</em>) with their dependencies. <strong>Gaza</strong>, the southernmost Philistine cit...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And in the mountains, Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And in the mountains, Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh,</strong><br><br>This verse transitions from the Shephelah (lowlands) to the hill country (הָהָר, <em>hahar</em>), Judah's mountainous heartland where the tribe's identity centered. The phrase "in the mountains" marks a new district section in this comprehensive territorial catalog. The hill country's rugged terrain provided natural defen...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(48-51) Nine of these eleven are identified.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Dannah, and Kirjathsannah, which is Debir,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Dannah, and Kirjath-sannah, which is Debir,</strong><br><br><strong>Dannah</strong> (דַּנָּה, <em>dannah</em>) possibly means "judgment," sharing the root with Dan (דָּן) and the verb <em>din</em> (דִּין, "to judge"). This brief mention preserves an otherwise unknown city's name, demonstrating Scripture's comprehensive documentation of tribal inheritances. The judicial connotations rem...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Anab, and Eshtemoh, and Anim,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Anab, and Eshtemoh, and Anim,</strong><br><br><strong>Anab</strong> (עֲנָב, <em>anav</em>) means "grape" or "grapes," indicating viticulture's importance in this region. The name suggests fertile soil supporting vineyards despite the hill country's general rockiness. Wine production was economically vital in ancient Israel, used for consumption, trade, and religious offerings. The name...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Goshen, and Holon, and Giloh; eleven cities with their villages:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Goshen, and Holon, and Giloh; eleven cities with their villages:</strong><br><br><strong>Goshen</strong> (גּשֶׁן, <em>goshen</em>) shares its name with the Egyptian region where Israel lived before the Exodus, though this is clearly a different location in Judah's hill country. The name's etymology is uncertain, possibly meaning "drawing near" or deriving from unknown pre-Israelite roo...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(51) **Goshen** is thought by some to give a name to the land of Goshen in Joshua 10:41, but the place is insignificant, and not identified; and to take the land of Goshen as frontier or border land seems a very much more reasonable interpretation.
**Giloh**—the home of Ahithophel the *Gilonite, *David’s and Absalom’s counsellor (2Samuel 15:12, &c).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Arab, and Dumah, and Eshean,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Arab, and Dumah, and Eshean,</strong><br><br><strong>Arab</strong> (עֲרָב, <em>arav</em>) means "ambush" or possibly derives from roots meaning "desert" or "evening." This should not be confused with the ethnic designation "Arab" (עֲרָבִי, <em>aravi</em>), though both share linguistic roots. If "ambush" is correct, the name might describe strategic military positioning or recall a signific...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Janum, and Bethtappuah, and Aphekah, Janum: or, Janus
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Janum, and Beth-tappuah, and Aphekah.</strong> This verse appears within the detailed enumeration of Judah's inheritance, specifically in the section listing cities in the hill country (<em>har</em>, הַר). The three cities mentioned—Janum, Beth-tappuah, and Aphekah—represent the meticulous faithfulness of God in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding th...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Humtah, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, and Zior; nine cities with their villages:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Humtah, and Kirjath-arba, which is Hebron, and Zior; nine cities with their villages</strong>—This verse lists cities in Judah's hill country. Hebron (Kirjath-arba) appears again, contextualizing Caleb's personal inheritance within Judah's broader tribal allotment. The systematic enumeration—<strong>"nine cities with their villages"</strong>—demonstrates meticulous record-keeping for l...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(54) Of this total of nine, six have been found.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Jos 9:3-15. The Gibeonites Obtain a League by Craft.
**3-15. when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard--**This town, as its name imports, was situated on a rocky eminence, about six miles northwest from Jerusalem, where the modern village of El Jib now stands. It was the capital of the Hivites, and a large important city (Jos 10:2). It seems to have formed, in union with a few other towns in the neigh...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Maon, Carmel, and Ziph, and Juttah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Maon, Carmel, and Ziph, and Juttah</strong>—These cities in Judah's southern hill country later figured prominently in Israel's history. Maon (מָעוֹן, "habitation") was where churlish Nabal lived and David sought refuge (1 Samuel 23:24-25, 25:2). Carmel (כַּרְמֶל, "garden-land") was Nabal's home, site of his feast and Abigail's wise intervention (1 Samuel 25). Ziph (זִיף) was where David h...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-17. at the end of three days ... they heard that they were their neighbours, and that they dwelt among them--**This information was obtained in their further progress through the country; for as Jos 9:17 should be rendered, "when the children of Israel journeyed, they came to their cities." Gibeon was about eighteen or twenty miles from Gilgal.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Jezreel, and Jokdeam, and Zanoah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Jezreel, and Jokdeam, and Zanoah</strong>—Jezreel (יִזְרְעֶאל, "God sows") here refers not to the famous northern valley but a city in Judah's hill country, home of Ahinoam who became David's wife (1 Samuel 27:3). The Hebrew name's meaning—"God sows"—reflects agricultural hope in a region requiring divine blessing for fruitfulness. Jokdeam (יָקְדְעָם) and Zanoah (זָנוֹחַ) are less prom...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**16-17. at the end of three days ... they heard that they were their neighbours, and that they dwelt among them--**This information was obtained in their further progress through the country; for as Jos 9:17 should be rendered, "when the children of Israel journeyed, they came to their cities." Gibeon was about eighteen or twenty miles from Gilgal.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Cain, Gibeah, and Timnah; ten cities with their villages:
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Cain, Gibeah, and Timnah; ten cities with their villages</strong>—Gibeah (גִּבְעָה, "hill") here is distinct from Saul's later capital Gibeah of Benjamin. Timnah (תִּמְנָה) was where Judah encountered his daughter-in-law Tamar (Genesis 38:12-14) and later a Philistine city associated with Samson (Judges 14:1-2). The enumeration <strong>"ten cities with their villages"</strong> continues th...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(57) The four first and the four last of these are all found. Maon, Carmel, and Ziph became famous in David’s wanderings (see the story of Nabal, 1 Samuel 25); and the Ziphites have covered themselves with infamy by their repeated efforts to betray him to Saul, who sought his life (1Samuel 23:19; 1Samuel 26:1).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Halhul, Bethzur, and Gedor,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Halhul, Beth-zur, and Gedor</strong>—Beth-zur (בֵּית צוּר, "house of rock") became a significant fortress-city in later Israelite history, featuring prominently in the Maccabean wars (1 Maccabees 4:29, 6:7). Its strategic location on the road from Hebron to Jerusalem made it a key defensive position. Gedor (גְּדוֹר) was another fortified city. The inclusion of fortress-cities in tribal all...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Maarath, and Bethanoth, and Eltekon; six cities with their villages:
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Maarath, and Beth-anoth, and Eltekon; six cities with their villages</strong>—These cities complete another cluster in Judah's hill country. Beth-anoth (בֵּית עֲנוֹת, "house of Anath") bears the name of a Canaanite goddess, similar to earlier examples of Baal place-names. The retention of pagan divine names in Israelite geography presented both opportunity and danger: opportunity to tr...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(59) Five of these six have been identified.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
Kirjathbaal, which is Kirjathjearim, and Rabbah; two cities with their villages:
View commentary (4 sources)
KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Kirjath-baal, which is Kirjath-jearim, and Rabbah; two cities with their villages</strong>—Kirjath-jearim (קִרְיַת יְעָרִים, "city of forests") appears frequently in Scripture as the place where the Ark of the Covenant remained for twenty years after the Philistines returned it (1 Samuel 7:1-2). That this city was also called Kirjath-baal (קִרְיַת בַּעַל, "city of Baal") reveals its pagan ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(60) **Kirjath-jearim** has been already pointed out on the boundary-line of the tribe (Joshua 15:9). Rabbah is marked as *Rubba.*
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
In the wilderness, Betharabah, Middin, and Secacah,
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>In the wilderness, Beth-arabah, Middin, and Secacah</strong>—The enumeration shifts to Judah's wilderness region, the arid zone descending toward the Dead Sea. Beth-arabah (בֵּית הָעֲרָבָה, "house of the desert") marked the boundary between Judah and Benjamin (Joshua 15:6, 18:22). This wilderness region, though inhospitable, was still part of the inheritance—God's gifts include both fertil...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(61) **In the wilderness**—*i.e., *in the mountains
near the Dead Sea three places have been identified—viz., Secacah (*Sikkkeh*)*, *the City of Salt (*Tell el-Milh*)*, *and En-gedi (*Ain Jidy*)*. *(See 1Samuel 24:1, &c.)
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and Engedi; six cities with their villages.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and En-gedi; six cities with their villages</strong>—En-gedi (עֵין גֶּדִי, "spring of the goat") was an oasis on the Dead Sea's western shore, famous for its springs, date palms, and balsam gardens. David hid there from Saul in caves (1 Samuel 24:1-2). The City of Salt likely refers to a settlement involved in harvesting salt from the Dead Sea, an economi...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.
As for the Jebusites the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive them out: but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Judah at Jerusalem unto this day.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>As for the Jebusites the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive them out</strong>—This sobering verse acknowledges incomplete conquest. The Jebusites (יְבוּסִי) remained in Jerusalem until David finally conquered it centuries later (2 Samuel 5:6-9). The phrase <strong>"could not drive them out"</strong> raises questions: Was this inability due to Jebusite strength,...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(63) **Could not drive them out.**—It is observable that the failure of the three great tribes of Judah and Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) to clear the inheritance assigned to them is specially noticed in the Book of Joshua—viz., Judah in this place, and Ephraim and Manasseh in Joshua 16:10; Joshua 17:11-12. A list of the failures of all the tribes is given in Judges 1.
Ellicott's Commentary for En...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**18-27. the children of Israel smote them not--**The moral character of the Gibeonites' stratagem was bad. The princes of the congregation did not vindicate either the expediency or the lawfulness of the connection they had formed; but they felt the solemn obligations of their oath; and, although the popular clamor was loud against them, caused either by disappointment at losing the spoils of Gib...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 20-63**
Here is a list of the cities of Judah. But we do not here find Bethlehem, afterwards the city of David, and ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. That city, which, at the best, was but little among the thousands of Judah, Mi 5:2, except that it was thus honoured, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities.