King James Version

What Does Joshua 19:37 Mean?

Joshua 19:37 in the King James Version says “And Kedesh, and Edrei, and Enhazor, — study this verse from Joshua chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

And Kedesh, and Edrei, and Enhazor,

Joshua 19:37 · KJV


Context

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,

38

And Iron, and Migdalel, Horem, and Bethanath, and Bethshemesh; nineteen cities with their villages.

39

This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Naphtali according to their families, the cities and their villages.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Kedesh, and Edrei, and En-hazor—Naphtali's city list concludes with northern settlements. Kedesh (not the Kedesh of refuge) means 'holy place.' Edrei ('strong') suggests a fortified town. En-hazor ('spring of Hazor') connected to the great Canaanite city Hazor, destroyed by Joshua (Joshua 11:10-11).

These northern cities faced constant pressure from Canaanite and later Aramean kingdoms. Naphtali's inheritance required vigilance and courage. Likewise, believers on the 'frontiers' of God's kingdom face greater spiritual warfare. The most exposed positions often require the strongest faith.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Naphtali's territory in Upper Galilee was mountainous and agriculturally rich. Its proximity to Phoenicia and Damascus made it vulnerable to foreign influence. Later, this region would be first conquered by Assyria (2 Kings 15:29), fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 9:1).

Reflection Questions

  1. What 'frontier' positions in your life require extra vigilance and courage?
  2. How can proximity to spiritual opposition strengthen rather than weaken your faith?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
וְקֶ֥דֶשׁ1 of 4

And Kedesh

H6943

kedesh, the name of four places in palestine

וְאֶדְרֶ֖עִי2 of 4

and Edrei

H154

edrei, the name of two places in palestine

וְעֵ֥ין3 of 4
H0
חָצֽוֹר׃4 of 4

and Enhazor

H5877

en-chatsor, 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 19:37 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 19:37 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Places in This Verse

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