King James Version

What Does Joshua 18:25 Mean?

Joshua 18:25 in the King James Version says “Gibeon, and Ramah, and Beeroth,” — study this verse from Joshua chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Gibeon, and Ramah, and Beeroth,”

Joshua 18:25 · KJV

Context

23

And Avim, and Parah, and Ophrah,

24

And Chepharhaammonai, and Ophni, and Gaba; twelve cities with their villages:

25

Gibeon, and Ramah, and Beeroth,

26

And Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Mozah,

27

And Rekem, and Irpeel, and Taralah,

Read Joshua 18 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Gibeon, and Ramah, and Beeroth—The second city group begins with Gibeon, famous for the deceptive treaty (Joshua 9) and the sun-standing-still miracle (Joshua 10:12-14). Ramah ('height') became Samuel's hometown (1 Samuel 7:17). Beeroth ('wells') was one of the four Gibeonite cities (Joshua 9:17).

Each city carries story. Gibeon reminds of deception redeemed—Joshua honored the treaty despite trickery, showing covenant faithfulness. Ramah recalls Samuel's prophetic ministry. Geography and history interweave in God's kingdom. Places aren't neutral—they bear witness to divine acts and human responses.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Gibeon was a major Hivite city whose inhabitants saved themselves through cunning diplomacy. Archaeological excavations reveal a sophisticated water system at Gibeon. Ramah lay 5 miles north of Jerusalem on the main highway, making it strategically and commercially important.

Reflection Questions

  1. How has God redeemed deceptive or difficult situations in your past for His glory?
  2. What stories do the 'places' in your spiritual journey tell about God's faithfulness?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
גִּבְע֥וֹן1 of 3

“Gibeon”

H1391

gibon, a place in palestine

וְהָֽרָמָ֖ה2 of 3

“and Ramah”

H7414

ramah, the name of four places in palestine

וּבְאֵרֽוֹת׃3 of 3

“and Beeroth”

H881

beeroth, 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 18:25 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 18:25 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joshua 9:171 Kings 3:4-5Joshua 7:17Joshua 15:34Joshua 10:2Jeremiah 31:15

Places in This Verse

BeerothSettlement · Modern: Khirbet el Burj · 31.82°N, 35.19°E9 verses across 5 books
GibeonSettlement · Modern: El Jib · 31.85°N, 35.18°E39 verses across 7 books
Ramah 1Settlement · Modern: Al Ram · 31.85°N, 35.23°E16 verses across 10 books
View all places in Joshua 18 →

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