King James Version
What Does Joshua 19:48 Mean?
“This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages.”
Joshua 19:48 · KJV
Context
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.
48
This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages.
49
When they had made an end of dividing the land for inheritance by their coasts, the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua the son of Nun among them:
50
According to the word of the LORD they gave him the city which he asked, even Timnathserah in mount Ephraim: and he built the city, and dwelt therein.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThis is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages—The formula conclusion, yet Dan's actual inheritance differed from God's plan. The historical books record their apostasy (Judges 18), eventual exclusion from some tribal lists (Revelation 7 omits Dan), yet hope remains—Ezekiel's millennial vision includes Dan (Ezekiel 48:1-2).
Dan's story balances warning and hope. Judgment comes for apostasy, yet God's ultimate restoration includes even the wayward. This reflects the gospel: judgment is real, but grace is greater (Romans 5:20). Even tribes or individuals who squander inheritance can be redeemed.
Dan's story balances warning and hope. Judgment comes for apostasy, yet God's ultimate restoration includes even the wayward. This reflects the gospel: judgment is real, but grace is greater (Romans 5:20). Even tribes or individuals who squander inheritance can be redeemed.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Dan's northern migration established them at Israel's farthest boundary, but their idolatrous worship center rivaled Jerusalem and Bethel in corrupting influence. The phrase 'from Dan to Beersheba' thus encompassed both geography and spiritual warning.
Reflection Questions
- How does Dan's ultimate inclusion in Ezekiel's vision encourage hope for the wayward?
- What balance must exist between warning about apostasy and offering hope for restoration?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 9 wordsנַֽחֲלַ֛ת2 of 9
“This is the inheritance”
H5159properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
מַטֵּ֥ה3 of 9
“of the tribe”
H4294a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
בְנֵי4 of 9
“of the children”
H1121a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
דָ֖ן5 of 9
“of Dan”
H1835dan, one of the sons of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory; likewise a place in palestine colonized by them
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֑ם6 of 9
“according to their families”
H4940a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
הֶֽעָרִ֥ים7 of 9
“these cities”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
וְחַצְרֵיהֶֽן׃9 of 9
“with their villages”
H2691a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)
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 19:48 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.