King James Version
What Does Joshua 19:35 Mean?
“And the fenced cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth,”
Joshua 19:35 · KJV
Context
33
And their coast was from Heleph, from Allon to Zaanannim, and Adami, Nekeb, and Jabneel, unto Lakum; and the outgoings thereof were at Jordan:
34
And then the coast turneth westward to Aznothtabor, and goeth out from thence to Hukkok, and reacheth to Zebulun on the south side, and reacheth to Asher on the west side, and to Judah upon Jordan toward the sunrising .
35
And the fenced cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth,
36
And Adamah, and Ramah, and Hazor,
37
And Kedesh, and Edrei, and Enhazor,
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd the fenced cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth. This verse begins listing Naphtali's fortified cities (arei ha-mivtsar, עָרֵי הַמִּבְצָר), crucial for tribal defense and administration. The term mivtsar (מִבְצָר) indicates cities with substantial walls, gates, and defensive structures—not merely villages but military strongholds capable of withstanding siege warfare.
The most significant city named is Chinnereth (כִּנֶּרֶת), which gave its name to the Sea of Chinnereth (later called the Sea of Galilee). The name likely derives from kinnor (כִּנּוֹר, harp), possibly describing the harp-shaped lake or the sweet, harp-like sounds of waves on its shore. This body of water became central to Jesus' Galilean ministry—the shore where He called fishermen disciples, the waves He calmed, the waters He walked upon.
Hammath (חַמַּת) means "hot springs," referring to the thermal springs near Tiberias still visible today. The name illustrates how Hebrew place names described geographical features, embedding theology in landscape—God's creation displaying His provision through healing waters. Rakkath (רַקַּת, "shore" or "coast") likely sat on the Sea of Galilee's western shore, possibly the site of later Tiberias. These fortified cities protected Naphtali's most valuable agricultural and fishing resources.
The most significant city named is Chinnereth (כִּנֶּרֶת), which gave its name to the Sea of Chinnereth (later called the Sea of Galilee). The name likely derives from kinnor (כִּנּוֹר, harp), possibly describing the harp-shaped lake or the sweet, harp-like sounds of waves on its shore. This body of water became central to Jesus' Galilean ministry—the shore where He called fishermen disciples, the waves He calmed, the waters He walked upon.
Hammath (חַמַּת) means "hot springs," referring to the thermal springs near Tiberias still visible today. The name illustrates how Hebrew place names described geographical features, embedding theology in landscape—God's creation displaying His provision through healing waters. Rakkath (רַקַּת, "shore" or "coast") likely sat on the Sea of Galilee's western shore, possibly the site of later Tiberias. These fortified cities protected Naphtali's most valuable agricultural and fishing resources.
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Historical & Cultural Context
Fortified cities in the Late Bronze and Iron Age typically featured massive stone walls (10-15 feet thick), defensive towers, and fortified gates with multiple chambers. Archaeological excavations at sites like Hazor (also in Naphtali, mentioned in 19:36) reveal sophisticated defensive systems including glacis (sloped ramparts), moats, and multi-layered walls. These fortifications were necessary given Canaan's constant military threats from surrounding peoples and periodic invasions from regional empires.
The Sea of Chinnereth/Galilee measures approximately 13 miles long and 8 miles wide, providing abundant fish and serving as a vital freshwater source. The lake's location 700 feet below sea level creates a subtropical microclimate suitable for year-round agriculture. Cities along its shores controlled lucrative fishing industries and agricultural lands, making them prime targets for conquest and requiring strong defenses.
The hot springs at Hammath (modern Hamat Tiberias) were used therapeutically in ancient times, as evidenced by Greco-Roman period remains. The springs maintain temperatures around 140°F (60°C) and contain sulfur and other minerals believed medicinal. Ancient peoples recognized such natural phenomena as divine provision, understanding creation's design to serve human welfare.
The Sea of Chinnereth/Galilee measures approximately 13 miles long and 8 miles wide, providing abundant fish and serving as a vital freshwater source. The lake's location 700 feet below sea level creates a subtropical microclimate suitable for year-round agriculture. Cities along its shores controlled lucrative fishing industries and agricultural lands, making them prime targets for conquest and requiring strong defenses.
The hot springs at Hammath (modern Hamat Tiberias) were used therapeutically in ancient times, as evidenced by Greco-Roman period remains. The springs maintain temperatures around 140°F (60°C) and contain sulfur and other minerals believed medicinal. Ancient peoples recognized such natural phenomena as divine provision, understanding creation's design to serve human welfare.
Reflection Questions
- How do fortified cities represent the spiritual defenses Christians must build through Scripture memory, prayer, and fellowship to withstand spiritual warfare?
- What does God's gift of both defensive cities and productive lands teach about His provision for both protection and prosperity?
- How should Chinnereth's later prominence in Jesus' ministry shape our understanding of God's long-term purposes in Old Testament geographical allotments?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 7 wordsוְעָרֵ֖י1 of 7
“cities”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
מִבְצָ֑ר2 of 7
“And the fenced”
H4013a fortification, castle, or fortified city; figuratively, a defender
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 19:35 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 19:35 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge