King James Version

What Does Joshua 19:43 Mean?

Joshua 19:43 in the King James Version says “And Elon, and Thimnathah, and Ekron,” — study this verse from Joshua chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“And Elon, and Thimnathah, and Ekron,”

Joshua 19:43 · KJV

Context

41

And the coast of their inheritance was Zorah, and Eshtaol, and Irshemesh,

42

And Shaalabbin, and Ajalon, and Jethlah,

43

And Elon, and Thimnathah, and Ekron,

44

And Eltekeh, and Gibbethon, and Baalath,

45

And Jehud, and Beneberak, and Gathrimmon,

Read Joshua 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And Elon, and Thimnathah, and Ekron—Elon means 'oak/terebinth.' Timnah (Thimnathah) appears in Samson's story as a Philistine town where he sought a wife (Judges 14:1). Ekron was one of the five principal Philistine cities, suggesting Dan's territory overlapped Philistine domains—a recipe for conflict and cultural compromise.

Assigned territory included unconquered Philistine strongholds. God's promises often include challenges requiring faith to possess. Dan's proximity to Philistia tested their covenant loyalty. Rather than conquer, they eventually abandoned their inheritance, fleeing north (Judges 18).

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Historical & Cultural Context

Ekron, the northernmost Philistine city, remained under Philistine control throughout much of Israel's history. The Philistines' iron technology and military organization intimidated Dan. Archaeological evidence shows Philistine material culture dominated this region during the Judges period.

Reflection Questions

  1. What unconquered 'Ekrons' has God assigned you that require persistent faith to possess?
  2. How does fleeing from hard assignments (like Dan's retreat north) forfeit God's best for you?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 3 words
וְאֵיל֥וֹן1 of 3

“And Elon”

H356

elon, the name of a place in palestine, and also of one hittite, two israelites

וְתִמְנָ֖תָה2 of 3

“and Thimnathah”

H8553

timnah, the name of two places in palestine

וְעֶקְרֽוֹן׃3 of 3

“and Ekron”

H6138

ekron, 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 19:43 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 19:43 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Genesis 38:12Amos 1:81 Samuel 5:10Judges 14:1-2Joshua 15:45

Places in This Verse

EkronSettlement · Modern: Tel Miqne · 31.78°N, 34.85°E20 verses across 8 books
ElonSettlement · Modern: Yalo · 31.84°N, 35.02°E1 verse across 1 book
Timnah 1Settlement · Modern: Tel Batash · 31.78°N, 34.91°E9 verses across 3 books
View all places in Joshua 19 →

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