King James Version
What Does Joshua 19:45 Mean?
“And Jehud, and Beneberak, and Gathrimmon,”
Joshua 19:45 · KJV
Context
43
And Elon, and Thimnathah, and Ekron,
44
And Eltekeh, and Gibbethon, and Baalath,
45
And Jehud, and Beneberak, and Gathrimmon,
46
And Mejarkon, and Rakkon, with the border before Japho. before: or, over against Japho: or, Joppa
47
And the coast of the children of Dan went out too little for them: therefore the children of Dan went up to fight against Leshem, and took it, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and possessed it, and dwelt therein, and called Leshem, Dan, after the name of Dan their father.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd Jehud, and Bene-berak, and Gath-rimmon—Jehud means 'praised.' Bene-berak ('sons of lightning') suggests ancient pagan associations. Gath-rimmon ('winepress of the pomegranate') later became a Levitical city (Joshua 21:24). These cities represented valuable coastal territory Dan failed to hold.
Squandered inheritance marks Dan's tragedy. Given prime land, they forfeited it through fear and faithlessness. Esau likewise sold his birthright (Genesis 25:29-34), showing how privilege can be despised. Believers must vigilantly guard against trading eternal inheritance for temporary ease (Hebrews 12:16-17).
Squandered inheritance marks Dan's tragedy. Given prime land, they forfeited it through fear and faithlessness. Esau likewise sold his birthright (Genesis 25:29-34), showing how privilege can be despised. Believers must vigilantly guard against trading eternal inheritance for temporary ease (Hebrews 12:16-17).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These cities lay in fertile coastal territory near modern Tel Aviv. Their loss to Philistine pressure demonstrates how military intimidation undermined faith. Dan's eventual northern migration (Judges 18) abandoned this region entirely.
Reflection Questions
- What spiritual inheritance are you tempted to trade for immediate comfort or safety?
- How does Dan's example warn against choosing easier paths over God's assigned purposes?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 5 wordsStudy 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 19:45 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 19:45 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge