King James Version

What Does 1 Chronicles 6:60 Mean?

“And out of the tribe of Benjamin; Geba with her suburbs, and Alemeth with her suburbs, and Anathoth with her suburbs. All their cities throughout their families were thirteen cities. Alemeth: or, Almon”

Context

And Hilen with her suburbs, Debir with her suburbs, Hilen: or, Holon

And Ashan with her suburbs, and Bethshemesh with her suburbs: Ashan: or, Ain

And out of the tribe of Benjamin; Geba with her suburbs, and Alemeth with her suburbs, and Anathoth with her suburbs. All their cities throughout their families were thirteen cities. Alemeth: or, Almon

And unto the sons of Kohath, which were left of the family of that tribe, were cities given out of the half tribe, namely, out of the half tribe of Manasseh, by lot, ten cities.

And to the sons of Gershom throughout their families out of the tribe of Issachar, and out of the tribe of Asher, and out of the tribe of Naphtali, and out of the tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, thirteen cities.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(60) “Gibeon and her pastures” is omitted; probably an oversight, due to the similarity of sound and form between Gibeon and Geba. Alemeth and Almôn are each valid formations, and perhaps represent an older and younger name of the place. **Thirteen cities.**—The list in its present shape contains eleven. This *proves* that Juttah and Gibeon should be restored to the text.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Chronicles. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Chronicles 6:60 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.