King James Version
What Does Joshua 15:61 Mean?
“In the wilderness, Betharabah, Middin, and Secacah,”
Joshua 15:61 · KJV
Context
59
And Maarath, and Bethanoth, and Eltekon; six cities with their villages:
60
Kirjathbaal, which is Kirjathjearim, and Rabbah; two cities with their villages:
61
In the wilderness, Betharabah, Middin, and Secacah,
62
And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and Engedi; six cities with their villages.
63
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.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryIn the wilderness, Beth-arabah, Middin, and Secacah—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 fertile and barren places, each serving different purposes.
The wilderness cities provided refuge, resources (e.g., salt from the Dead Sea, bitumen, minerals), and training ground for faith. David's wilderness experiences forged his character and faith (1 Samuel 23-24, Psalms 63). Jesus Himself was led into wilderness for testing (Matthew 4:1). Wilderness isn't wasted space but purposeful provision—places of testing, refuge, and encounter with God. Judah's inheritance appropriately included both fruitful farmland and barren wilderness, preparing them for varied experiences with God.
The wilderness cities provided refuge, resources (e.g., salt from the Dead Sea, bitumen, minerals), and training ground for faith. David's wilderness experiences forged his character and faith (1 Samuel 23-24, Psalms 63). Jesus Himself was led into wilderness for testing (Matthew 4:1). Wilderness isn't wasted space but purposeful provision—places of testing, refuge, and encounter with God. Judah's inheritance appropriately included both fruitful farmland and barren wilderness, preparing them for varied experiences with God.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The Judean wilderness is a rain-shadow desert dropping from the hill country (2,000+ feet elevation) down to the Dead Sea (1,400 feet below sea level) over a distance of about 15 miles. Annual rainfall decreases dramatically from west to east, creating stark transition from agriculture to desert. The region provided grazing for hardy sheep and goats, refuge for fugitives, and access to Dead Sea resources.
Reflection Questions
- How does the inclusion of wilderness in Judah's inheritance teach that God's gifts include both abundance and austerity?
- What purposes do 'wilderness seasons' serve in spiritual formation that fertile seasons cannot provide?
- How might Judah's wilderness experience have prepared them uniquely for trusting God in difficult circumstances?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsבַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר1 of 5
“In the wilderness”
H4057a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
בֵּ֚ית2 of 5
H0מִדִּ֖ין4 of 5
“Middin”
H4081midjan, a son of abraham; also his country and (collectively) his descendants
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 15:61 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 15:61 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge