King James Version

What Does Joshua 18:26 Mean?

Joshua 18:26 in the King James Version says “And Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Mozah, — study this verse from Joshua chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Mozah,

Joshua 18:26 · KJV


Context

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,

28

And Zelah, Eleph, and Jebusi, which is Jerusalem, Gibeath, and Kirjath; fourteen cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Mizpeh, and Chephirah, and Mozah—Mizpeh ('watchtower') served as a gathering place for Israel during the judges period (Judges 20:1). Chephirah was another Gibeonite city (Joshua 9:17). Mozah's meaning is uncertain. These cities formed a network of Benjamite settlements in the central highlands.

Mizpeh as a 'watchtower' symbolizes spiritual vigilance. Believers must 'watch and pray' (Matthew 26:41), maintaining alertness against spiritual enemies. Every generation needs Mizpehs—places of gathering, covenant renewal, and watchful prayer.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Mizpeh (possibly Tell en-Nasbeh) became important during the monarchy and post-exilic period. Samuel judged Israel there (1 Samuel 7:5-6), and Gedaliah governed from Mizpeh after Jerusalem's destruction (2 Kings 25:23). Its elevation made it ideal for surveillance.

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'watchtowers' of spiritual vigilance do you maintain in your life?
  2. How can gathering places like Mizpeh foster corporate covenant faithfulness today?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וְהַמִּצְפֶּ֥ה1 of 3

And Mizpeh

H4708

mitspeh, the name of five places in palestine

וְהַכְּפִירָ֖ה2 of 3

and Chephirah

H3716

kephirah, a place in palestine

וְהַמֹּצָֽה׃3 of 3

and Mozah

H4681

motsah, 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 18:26 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 18:26 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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