King James Version
Joshua 21:33 in the King James Version says “All the cities of the Gershonites according to their families were thirteen cities with their suburbs.” — study this verse from Joshua chapter 21 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“All the cities of the Gershonites according to their families were thirteen cities with their suburbs.”
Joshua 21:33 · KJV
Helkath with her suburbs, and Rehob with her suburbs; four cities.
And out of the tribe of Naphtali, Kedesh in Galilee with her suburbs, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Hammothdor with her suburbs, and Kartan with her suburbs; three cities.
All the cities of the Gershonites according to their families were thirteen cities with their suburbs.
And unto the families of the children of Merari, the rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of Zebulun, Jokneam with her suburbs, and Kartah with her suburbs,
Dimnah with her suburbs, Nahalal with her suburbs; four cities.
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
“All the cities”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
“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
“All the cities”
H5892a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
“with their suburbs”
H4054a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea
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.
Joshua 21:33 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.