Joshua 13:27

KJV

And in the valley, Betharam, and Bethnimrah, and Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, Jordan and [his] border, [even] unto the edge of the sea of Chinnereth on the other side Jordan eastward.

KJV (with Strong's)

And in the valley {H6010}, Betharam {H1027}, and Bethnimrah {H1039}, and Succoth {H5523}, and Zaphon {H6829}, the rest {H3499} of the kingdom {H4468} of Sihon {H5511} king {H4428} of Heshbon {H2809}, Jordan {H3383} and his border {H1366}, even unto the edge {H7097} of the sea {H3220} of Chinnereth {H3672} on the other side {H5676} Jordan {H3383} eastward {H4217}.

Complete Jewish Bible

while in the valley it included Beit-Haram, Beit-Nimrah, Sukkot and Tzafon - in other words, the rest of the kingdom of Sichon king of Heshbon; with the Yarden to the far end of Lake Kinneret as its border, their territory extended eastward.

Berean Standard Bible

and in the valley, Beth-haram, Beth-nimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon, with the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon (the territory on the east side of the Jordan up to the edge of the Sea of Chinnereth).

American Standard Version

and in the valley, Beth-haram, and Beth-nimrah, and Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, the Jordan and the border thereof, unto the uttermost part of the sea of Chinnereth beyond the Jordan eastward.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 13:27 meticulously delineates a specific portion of the land east of the Jordan River, detailing cities and geographical markers within the former kingdom of Sihon, king of Heshbon. This verse, embedded within the larger narrative of land distribution, underscores God's precise fulfillment of His covenant promises to Israel, providing a tangible inheritance even in territories previously conquered by Moses. It highlights the divine order and specificity in the allocation of tribal boundaries, particularly for the tribes of Reuben and Gad, ensuring that every detail of Israel's promised possession was accounted for.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Joshua chapters 13-19, a comprehensive section dedicated to the detailed division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Although Joshua is elderly and significant portions of the land remain unconquered, God explicitly commands him to proceed with the distribution, emphasizing that the land is already Israel's by divine decree and covenant promise, as stated in [Joshua 13:1](/joshua/13-1 "Joshua 13:1 - God's Command to Divide the Land"). Joshua 13:27 specifically contributes to the description of the territory allotted to the tribe of Gad, or possibly Reuben, given the complex and sometimes overlapping nature of the boundary descriptions for the Transjordanian tribes. The meticulous enumeration of cities and geographical features serves to formally record and validate the tribal inheritances.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The territory described in Joshua 13:27, east of the Jordan River, was not part of the initial conquest under Joshua but had been conquered by Moses before his death. This region, encompassing the fertile Jordan Valley and the kingdom of Sihon, was secured after Israel's victorious battles against the Amorite King Sihon of Heshbon and King Og of Bashan, as extensively recounted in [Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21 "Numbers 21:21-35 - Israel Defeats Sihon and Og") and [Deuteronomy 2:26-37](/deuteronomy/2-26 "Deuteronomy 2:26-37 - Moses Recounts Sihon's Defeat"). The defeat of Sihon was a pivotal moment, demonstrating God's power to clear the way for His people and providing a significant portion of land for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, who chose to settle there. Culturally, precise land boundaries were crucial for tribal identity, economic stability, and preventing future disputes, reflecting the importance of land ownership in ancient Near Eastern societies.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 13:27 powerfully reinforces several key themes woven throughout the Book of Joshua and the Pentateuch. Primarily, it underscores **Divine Faithfulness and Provision**, demonstrating God's meticulous and unwavering fulfillment of His covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants the land, as first articulated in [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham"). The detailed enumeration of cities and boundaries highlights God's commitment to every aspect of His promise. Secondly, the verse emphasizes **Order and Specificity**, showcasing the divine precision in the distribution of the land. Each tribe received a clearly defined portion, a testament to God's orderly nature and His desire to prevent future territorial conflicts among His people. Finally, it serves as a reminder of **Conquest and Inheritance**, illustrating that this land was not acquired through human might alone but through divine intervention and the preceding conquests, which paved the way for Israel's settlement and inheritance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Sihon (Hebrew, _Sîḥôn'_):** This refers to the Amorite king of Heshbon, whose kingdom was located east of the Jordan. His refusal to allow Israel passage led to a decisive battle where Israel, empowered by God, utterly defeated him and took possession of his land. His mention here underscores the historical context of the conquest and the divine provision of this territory.
* **Heshbon (Hebrew, _Ḥešbôn'_):** The capital city of King Sihon, strategically located east of the Jordan. Its capture was a major victory for Israel, signifying the downfall of a formidable regional power and the securement of a significant portion of land. The phrase "the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon" indicates that the cities listed in the verse were part of the broader territory that had been under Sihon's dominion.
* **Chinnereth (Hebrew, _Kinneret'_):** This is the ancient name for what is now known as the Sea of Galilee, also called Lake Gennesaret or Lake Tiberias in the New Testament. The name "Chinnereth" is thought to derive from the Hebrew word for a lyre or harp (_kinnor_), possibly due to its distinctive harp-like shape. Its mention here establishes the northernmost boundary of the described territory, indicating the full extent of the land allotted.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in the valley, Betharam, and Bethnimrah, and Succoth, and Zaphon":** This clause identifies specific cities located within the fertile Jordan Valley, east of the Jordan River. These cities were part of the territory allotted to the tribe of Gad (or Reuben, depending on the precise boundary interpretation). Betharam is likely Beth-haram, and Bethnimrah was known for its abundant water. Succoth is historically significant, mentioned in connection with Jacob's journey and Gideon's pursuit of the Midianites. Zaphon was another key city in the region. The listing emphasizes the concrete, tangible nature of the land inheritance.
* **"the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon":** This phrase clarifies that the described cities and territory constituted the remaining portion of the Amorite kingdom that Israel had conquered under Moses. It serves as a historical anchor, connecting the current land distribution to the earlier victories and reinforcing the idea that this inheritance was a direct result of God's prior intervention and provision.
* **"Jordan and [his] border, [even] unto the edge of the sea of Chinnereth on the other side Jordan eastward":** This defines the geographical boundaries of the described land. The Jordan River serves as the western border, a prominent natural landmark. The phrase "on the other side Jordan eastward" specifies its location relative to the main body of Israel. The northern extent of this territory reaches "unto the edge of the sea of Chinnereth," providing a clear and identifiable northern boundary for the allotted land.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 13:27 primarily employs **Enumeration** or **Cataloging**, a common literary device in biblical texts, particularly in legal and historical sections. This involves the detailed listing of names, places, or items to convey precision and thoroughness. Here, the specific naming of Betharam, Bethnimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon, along with the geographical markers of the Jordan River and the Sea of Chinnereth, creates a sense of meticulous detail. This **Geographical Precision** is not merely for informational purposes; it serves a theological function. It underscores God's absolute faithfulness in fulfilling His promises down to the smallest detail, demonstrating that the land was indeed a real, tangible inheritance. The specificity also reinforces the **Divine Order** in the distribution, ensuring clarity and preventing future disputes among the tribes. The very act of naming these places validates the divine grant and the reality of Israel's possession.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 13:27, though a seemingly dry geographical description, is deeply theological, serving as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and meticulous care for His covenant people. The precise delineation of boundaries and the naming of specific cities underscore that God's promises are not vague generalities but concrete realities, fulfilled with astonishing detail. Just as God meticulously ensured that every inch of the promised land was accounted for and allotted, He is faithful to every promise He makes, whether physical or spiritual. This passage reminds us that God's sovereignty extends to the smallest details of His plans, ensuring that His purposes are perfectly executed. It speaks to the divine order that undergirds creation and redemption, providing a secure foundation for Israel's identity and future.

* [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham")
* [Numbers 34:1-12](/numbers/34-1 "Numbers 34:1-12 - Boundaries of the Land of Canaan")
* [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed geographical descriptions in Joshua 13:27 might initially appear remote from our daily lives, yet they offer profound spiritual lessons. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's meticulous faithfulness. Just as He precisely fulfilled His ancient promises to Israel concerning the land, we can trust in His unwavering commitment to His promises to us. This includes His promises of salvation, guidance, provision, and eternal life. The divine precision in land distribution encourages us to recognize that God is intimately involved in the details of our lives; nothing is too small for His attention or too complex for His perfect plan. We are called to "possess" our spiritual inheritance in Christ, living within the boundaries of His grace, truth, and purpose for our lives. This means actively trusting His Word, walking in obedience, and embracing the blessings He has already secured for us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of God's land distribution in Joshua 13:27 encourage your trust in His faithfulness regarding the specifics of your own life?**
* **In what ways can we "possess" our spiritual inheritance in Christ today, just as Israel was called to possess their physical land?**
* **What "boundaries" or guidelines has God established in your life or in His Word that bring order, security, and blessing?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Sihon, king of Heshbon, being mentioned here?**

Answer: The mention of Sihon, king of Heshbon, is highly significant because it grounds the land allotment in a specific historical event. This territory was part of the Amorite kingdom that Israel had conquered under Moses before entering Canaan. Sihon's defeat, described in [Numbers 21:21-35](/numbers/21-21 "Numbers 21:21-35 - Israel's Victory Over Sihon"), was a major victory that demonstrated God's power and faithfulness to fight for His people. By including "the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon," the text highlights that this inheritance was not merely a new acquisition but the fulfillment of a prior divine promise and a result of God's earlier intervention on Israel's behalf.

**Why is the Sea of Chinnereth mentioned, and what is its modern name?**

Answer: The Sea of Chinnereth is mentioned as a crucial geographical marker, defining the northern boundary of the territory described in Joshua 13:27. Its inclusion provides a clear and identifiable limit for the allotted land. Today, the Sea of Chinnereth is widely known as the Sea of Galilee, also referred to as Lake Gennesaret or Lake Tiberias in the New Testament. It is a significant body of water, central to many of Jesus's miracles and teachings, as seen in passages like [Matthew 4:18](/matthew/4-18 "Matthew 4:18 - Jesus Calls His First Disciples by the Sea of Galilee"). The ancient name "Chinnereth" is believed to be derived from the Hebrew word for a lyre or harp (_kinnor_), possibly due to the lake's distinctive shape.

**How does this detailed geographical description relate to God's character?**

Answer: This detailed geographical description profoundly reveals aspects of God's character. Firstly, it underscores His **faithfulness** to His covenant promises. The meticulous accounting of every city and boundary demonstrates that God fulfills His word with precision and integrity. Secondly, it highlights His **orderliness** and **sovereignty**. The systematic division of the land reflects a divine plan that is well-ordered and leaves nothing to chance, ensuring clarity and preventing chaos among the tribes. Lastly, it speaks to God's **attentiveness to detail** and His **generosity**. He not only promised a land but ensured its specific allocation, demonstrating His care for His people's inheritance and their well-being.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 13:27 details a physical land inheritance, it powerfully foreshadows the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ. The meticulous division of the land for Israel points to God's precise and faithful fulfillment of all His promises, culminating in Jesus Christ. Just as the land provided rest and security for Israel, Christ is our ultimate rest and security, the true "land" of promise. In Him, we receive "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places," as described in [Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ"). Our inheritance is not a geographical plot but participation in the very life and kingdom of God, secured by Christ's atoning sacrifice and resurrection. He is the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant, establishing a new and better covenant where believers, through faith, inherit eternal life and become co-heirs with Him, as [Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ") declares. The boundaries of this new inheritance are not physical rivers or seas, but the boundless grace and truth found in the person of Jesus, leading us to a heavenly city and a new creation, as glimpsed in [Revelation 21:1](/revelation/21-1 "Revelation 21:1 - A New Heaven and a New Earth").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 33:17

And Jacob journeyed to Succoth, and built him an house, and made booths for his cattle: therefore the name of the place is called Succoth.

Numbers 34:11

And the coast shall go down from Shepham to Riblah, on the east side of Ain; and the border shall descend, and shall reach unto the side of the sea of Chinnereth eastward:

Numbers 32:36

And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities: and folds for sheep.

Deuteronomy 3:17

The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast [thereof], from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward.

Joshua 11:2

And to the kings that [were] on the north of the mountains, and of the plains south of Chinneroth, and in the valley, and in the borders of Dor on the west,

1 Kings 7:46

In the plain of Jordan did the king cast them, in the clay ground between Succoth and Zarthan.

Judges 8:14

And caught a young man of the men of Succoth, and enquired of him: and he described unto him the princes of Succoth, and the elders thereof, [even] threescore and seventeen men.