King James Version
What Does Joshua 19:25 Mean?
“And their border was Helkath, and Hali, and Beten, and Achshaph,”
Joshua 19:25 · KJV
Context
23
This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Issachar according to their families, the cities and their villages.
24
And the fifth lot came out for the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families.
25
And their border was Helkath, and Hali, and Beten, and Achshaph,
26
And Alammelech, and Amad, and Misheal; and reacheth to Carmel westward, and to Shihorlibnath;
27
And turneth toward the sunrising to Bethdagon, and reacheth to Zebulun, and to the valley of Jiphthahel toward the north side of Bethemek, and Neiel, and goeth out to Cabul on the left hand,
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd their border was Helkath, and Hali, and Beten, and Achshaph—Asher's territory (גְּבוּל gevul, boundary) begins with cities previously mentioned in conquest lists. Achshaph appears in Joshua 11:1 as a Canaanite royal city defeated by Joshua, demonstrating how conquered territories became Israelite inheritance. The tribal boundaries (גְּבוּלֹת gevulot) were not arbitrary divisions but divinely appointed inheritances fulfilling Genesis 49:20, where Jacob blessed Asher with richness.
The precision of boundary descriptions reveals God's meticulous care in distributing the nachalah (inheritance). Each city name carries meaning: Helkath means "smooth" or "portion," Hali means "ornament," suggesting the value God placed on this coastal region. This detailed geography grounds redemptive history in real places, refuting mythological interpretations of Scripture.
The precision of boundary descriptions reveals God's meticulous care in distributing the nachalah (inheritance). Each city name carries meaning: Helkath means "smooth" or "portion," Hali means "ornament," suggesting the value God placed on this coastal region. This detailed geography grounds redemptive history in real places, refuting mythological interpretations of Scripture.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These cities lay in the western Galilee region, bordering the Phoenician coast. Archaeological surveys have identified several of these sites, confirming the historical accuracy of Joshua's territorial descriptions. Asher's proximity to Phoenician culture presented both commercial opportunities and spiritual dangers through Baal worship.
Reflection Questions
- How does God's detailed provision of specific boundaries for each tribe demonstrate His personal care in your life circumstances?
- What spiritual dangers accompany material blessings, as Asher experienced living near wealthy Phoenician cities?
- How do conquered enemies becoming inheritance illustrate Paul's promise that "all things work together for good" (Romans 8:28)?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsוַיְהִ֖י1 of 6
H1961to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
גְּבוּלָ֑ם2 of 6
“And their border”
H1366properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
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 19:25 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 19:25 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge