King James Version
What Does Joshua 19:21 Mean?
“And Remeth, and Engannim, and Enhaddah, and Bethpazzez;”
Joshua 19:21 · KJV
Context
19
And Hapharaim, and Shion, and Anaharath,
20
And Rabbith, and Kishion, and Abez,
21
And Remeth, and Engannim, and Enhaddah, and Bethpazzez;
22
And the coast reacheth to Tabor, and Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh; and the outgoings of their border were at Jordan: sixteen cities with their villages.
23
This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Issachar according to their families, the cities and their villages.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd Remeth, and En-gannim, and En-haddah, and Beth-pazzez. Four cities appear in this verse, several featuring compound names with 'ên (עֵין, "spring" or "fountain"). Remeth (רֶמֶת) means "height," later identified with Ramoth or Jarmuth (Joshua 21:29). 'Ên-gannîm (עֵין־גַּנִּים, "spring of gardens") emphasizes the area's water resources and agricultural productivity—springs were precious in semi-arid Palestine, determining settlement locations and supporting irrigation. 'Ên-ḥaddāh (עֵין־חַדָּה) means "swift spring" or "sharp spring," possibly describing rapid water flow. Bêth-paṣṣēṣ (בֵּית־פַּצֵּץ) means "house of dispersion" or "breaking forth," perhaps referring to scattered settlement pattern.
The prevalence of spring-related names underscores water's theological significance in Scripture. Water represents both physical provision and spiritual life—Jesus identified Himself as "living water" (John 4:10-14, 7:37-39), drawing on deep-rooted associations between springs and divine blessing. The "spring of gardens" evokes Eden's well-watered paradise (Genesis 2:10) and prophetic visions of eschatological fruitfulness (Isaiah 58:11, Jeremiah 31:12). For Issachar's people, these literal springs sustained crops and herds while symbolizing God's life-giving presence.
The prevalence of spring-related names underscores water's theological significance in Scripture. Water represents both physical provision and spiritual life—Jesus identified Himself as "living water" (John 4:10-14, 7:37-39), drawing on deep-rooted associations between springs and divine blessing. The "spring of gardens" evokes Eden's well-watered paradise (Genesis 2:10) and prophetic visions of eschatological fruitfulness (Isaiah 58:11, Jeremiah 31:12). For Issachar's people, these literal springs sustained crops and herds while symbolizing God's life-giving presence.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
En-gannim has been identified with modern Jenin at the southern edge of the Jezreel Valley, strategically positioned at the junction between the valley and the hill country. This location controlled north-south traffic through the central highlands. Archaeological surveys reveal continuous settlement from Bronze Age through modern times, confirming the site's long-term viability based on reliable water sources. The presence of multiple springs in Issachar's territory contributed to the Jezreel Valley's agricultural reputation. Ancient irrigation techniques, including channels and terracing, maximized water utilization for grain cultivation. Springs also served social functions—women gathered there for water, travelers rested, and covenants were sometimes ratified at water sources (Genesis 21:25-32).
Reflection Questions
- How do biblical spring metaphors deepen your understanding of Jesus as 'living water' who provides both physical sustenance and spiritual life?
- What spiritual 'springs' has God positioned in your life-landscape to sustain fruitfulness, and how can you steward these resources faithfully?
- How might the necessity of returning regularly to physical springs for water illustrate our need for continual dependence on God's renewing grace?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 7 wordsStudy 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 19:21 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 19:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge