King James Version

What Does Joshua 15:29 Mean?

Joshua 15:29 in the King James Version says “Baalah, and Iim, and Azem,” — study this verse from Joshua chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Baalah, and Iim, and Azem,”

Joshua 15:29 · KJV

Context

27

And Hazargaddah, and Heshmon, and Bethpalet,

28

And Hazarshual, and Beersheba, and Bizjothjah,

29

Baalah, and Iim, and Azem,

30

And Eltolad, and Chesil, and Hormah,

31

And Ziklag, and Madmannah, and Sansannah,

Read Joshua 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Baalah, and Iim, and Azem—Baalah (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. Iim (עִיִּים, "ruins" or "heaps") or possibly "Iyim" suggests either ancient ruins or a place characterized by stone heaps. Azem (עֶצֶם, "bone" or "strong") appears in Simeon's inheritance (Joshua 19:3) and may indicate a fortified location or place of notable strength.

The retention of names like Baalah in Israel's inheritance demonstrates historical honesty—Scripture doesn't sanitize the land's pagan past but acknowledges it while showing God's redemptive transformation. What was devoted to false gods became part of the holy inheritance, illustrating the pattern throughout Scripture of God redeeming and repurposing what was corrupted by sin.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The transformation of Canaanite cult sites into Israelite settlements required thorough cleansing. Deuteronomy 12:2-3 commanded destroying high places, Asherah poles, carved images, and even the names of false gods. Yet place names like Baalah persisted, possibly because geographic identification required recognizable names, or perhaps showing incomplete obedience to eradication commands—a recurring theme in Judges.

Iim's identification with ruins suggests the site may have been destroyed in earlier conflicts and later resettled. The Negev contains numerous tells (ancient mounds) representing multiple occupation periods. Communities built atop earlier ruins, creating layered settlements reflecting centuries of habitation, destruction, and rebuilding. These archaeological patterns confirm biblical narratives of conquest, settlement, and occasional destruction.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'Baalah' areas in your life—things formerly devoted to idolatry or sin—has God redeemed, and how can you ensure they remain consecrated to Him?
  2. How does Israel's incomplete eradication of Canaanite influences (shown by retained place names and later idolatry) warn against tolerating 'small' compromises that eventually corrupt faithfulness?
  3. What does God's transformation of pagan cult sites into covenant inheritance illustrate about the gospel's power to redeem what was corrupted by sin?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
בַּֽעֲלָ֥ה1 of 3

“Baalah”

H1173

baalah, the name of three places in palestine

וְעִיִּ֖ים2 of 3

“and Iim”

H5864

ijim, a place in the desert

וָעָֽצֶם׃3 of 3

“and Azem”

H6107

etsem, a place in palestine

Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Joshua 15:29 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Joshua 15:29 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Chronicles 4:29Joshua 19:3Joshua 15:9-11

Places in This Verse

Baalah 1Special Place · Modern: Tulul el Medbah · 31.14°N, 34.91°E1 verse across 1 book
EzemSettlement · Modern: Khirbet Asan · 31.28°N, 34.80°E3 verses across 2 books
IimSettlement · Modern: Deir al Ghawi · 31.36°N, 34.92°E1 verse across 1 book
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