King James Version
What Does Joshua 19:26 Mean?
“And Alammelech, and Amad, and Misheal; and reacheth to Carmel westward, and to Shihorlibnath;”
Joshua 19:26 · KJV
Context
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,
28
And Hebron, and Rehob, and Hammon, and Kanah, even unto great Zidon;
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd Alammelech, and Amad, and Misheal; and reacheth to Carmel westward—The boundary extends to Mount Carmel (כַּרְמֶל Karmel, "garden land" or "fruitful field"), the mountain range jutting into the Mediterranean where Elijah would later confront Baal's prophets (1 Kings 18). The inclusion of Carmel in Asher's territory connects tribal inheritance to prophetic history—Asher's land became the staging ground for Israel's greatest showdown with idolatry.
Shihor-libnath likely refers to a coastal stream, defining the southwestern boundary. The phrase reacheth to (פָּגַע paga, to meet, encounter) suggests these boundaries touched natural landmarks. God used geography—mountains, rivers, coastlines—to define inheritances, demonstrating His sovereignty over creation itself. The land doesn't just contain His people; it shapes their identity and calling.
Shihor-libnath likely refers to a coastal stream, defining the southwestern boundary. The phrase reacheth to (פָּגַע paga, to meet, encounter) suggests these boundaries touched natural landmarks. God used geography—mountains, rivers, coastlines—to define inheritances, demonstrating His sovereignty over creation itself. The land doesn't just contain His people; it shapes their identity and calling.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Mount Carmel rises prominently along the Mediterranean coast, creating a natural boundary. The region was known for vineyards and fertile soil, fulfilling Jacob's prophecy about Asher's richness. Archaeological evidence shows continuous occupation through the biblical period, with strategic importance for controlling coastal trade routes.
Reflection Questions
- How does Carmel's dual role (tribal boundary and prophetic battleground) show God's long-range purposes in seemingly mundane land distributions?
- What spiritual "landmarks" has God placed in your life that define your calling and identity?
- How might geographic proximity to ungodly influences (like Phoenician Baal worship near Carmel) actually position believers for strategic spiritual warfare?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsוּפָגַ֤ע4 of 8
“and reacheth”
H6293to impinge, by accident or violence, or (figuratively) by importunity
הַיָּ֔מָּה6 of 8
“westward”
H3220a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
וּבְשִׁיח֖וֹר7 of 8
H0Study 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 19:26 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 19:26 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge