Joshua 14:15

KJV

And the name of Hebron before [was] Kirjatharba; [which Arba was] a great man among the Anakims. And the land had rest from war.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the name {H8034} of Hebron {H2275} before {H6440} was Kirjatharba {H7153}; which Arba was a great {H1419} man {H120} among the Anakims {H6062}. And the land {H776} had rest {H8252} from war {H4421}.

Complete Jewish Bible

(Hevron was formerly called Kiryat-Arba; this Arba was the greatest man among the 'Anakim.) Then the land had rest from war.

Berean Standard Bible

(Hebron used to be called Kiriath-arba, after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim.) Then the land had rest from war.

American Standard Version

Now the name of Hebron beforetime was Kiriath-arba; which Arba was the greatest man among the Anakim. And the land had rest from war.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 14:15 serves as a concluding historical note to Caleb's inheritance narrative, providing crucial background on Hebron's original name, Kirjath-arba, and its connection to Arba, a prominent figure among the formidable Anakim. This verse culminates with the significant declaration that the land had finally achieved a period of rest from the major conquest wars, marking a pivotal transition from widespread military campaigns to the orderly distribution of the promised inheritance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 14:15 functions as a summarizing statement that concludes the specific account of Caleb's inheritance of Hebron, which began in [Joshua 14:6](/joshua/14-6 "Joshua 14:6 - Caleb's Claim"). The preceding verses detail Caleb's courageous request for this challenging territory, specifically mentioning the Anakim, and Joshua's blessing upon him. This verse provides the historical etymology of Hebron's former name, Kirjath-arba, reinforcing the formidable nature of the inhabitants Caleb faced. Following this verse, the book of Joshua transitions from the narratives of conquest and specific land claims to the detailed, systematic distribution of the land among the remaining tribes, making the declaration of "rest from war" a fitting transition point.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Hebron was an ancient and significant city, known even before the Israelite conquest as a burial place for patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob ([Genesis 23](/genesis/23 "Genesis 23 - Sarah's Death and Burial")). Its original name, Kirjath-arba, links it to Arba, a notable figure among the Anakim. The Anakim were a pre-Israelite people renowned for their great stature and strength, often described as giants, whose presence had previously instilled fear and doubt among the Israelite spies during their initial reconnaissance of Canaan ([Numbers 13:33](/numbers/13-33 "Numbers 13:33 - The Anakim")). The declaration that "the land had rest from war" signifies the successful completion of the major, unified military campaigns under Joshua's leadership. While localized skirmishes and the full dispossessing of all inhabitants would continue for some time, the primary phase of large-scale conquest was over, allowing for the peaceful division of the land.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Joshua and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the **fulfillment of God's promises** to Israel, particularly the promise of a land and rest from their enemies ([Deuteronomy 12:10](/deuteronomy/12-10 "Deuteronomy 12:10 - Rest in the Land"), [Joshua 21:44](/joshua/21-44 "Joshua 21:44 - God Gives Israel Rest")). The peace mentioned in the verse is a direct result of God's faithfulness and Israel's obedience. Secondly, it implicitly highlights **Caleb's unwavering faith and courage**. Despite the formidable reputation of the Anakim, Caleb, trusting in God, specifically requested and received this challenging inheritance, serving as a powerful example of steadfastness ([Joshua 14:12](/joshua/14-12 "Joshua 14:12 - Caleb's Request")). Finally, the "rest from war" marks the **transition from conquest to inheritance**, signifying that the primary objective of taking the land had been achieved, paving the way for the tribes to settle and possess their allotted territories. This "rest" also foreshadows a deeper, spiritual rest promised to God's people ([Hebrews 4:9](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9 - The Sabbath Rest for God's People")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Kirjatharba (Hebrew, _Qiryat Arba'_):** This name literally means "City of Arba." While "Arba" also means "four," the context clearly identifies it as the name of a prominent man among the Anakim. The retention of this ancient name in the historical record emphasizes the deep roots of the city and the formidable legacy of its former inhabitants, providing a stark contrast to Israel's eventual possession.
* **Anakims (Hebrew, _‘Anaqim'_):** Derived from a root meaning "long-necked" or "giants," the Anakim were a race of exceptionally tall and powerful people who inhabited parts of Canaan. Their imposing physical stature and strength made them a significant psychological and military threat to the Israelites, particularly highlighted in the spies' report in [Numbers 13:33](/numbers/13-33 "Numbers 13:33 - The Anakim"). Their mention here underscores the magnitude of Caleb's faith and God's power in overcoming such formidable foes.
* **Rest (Hebrew, _nuach'_):** This term signifies more than just a cessation of hostilities; it implies a state of settling, security, and peace. In the context of the conquest, it denotes a divinely granted period of relief from the intense, large-scale military campaigns, allowing Israel to consolidate their gains and proceed with the land's distribution. It is a fulfillment of God's promise to provide a secure dwelling place for His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the name of Hebron before [was] Kirjatharba;":** This clause provides a crucial historical detail, identifying Hebron by its pre-Israelite name. This etymological note grounds the narrative in the ancient history of the land and sets the stage for understanding the significance of its conquest. It connects the present state of the land to its past, emphasizing the transformation brought about by God's faithfulness.
* **"[which Arba was] a great man among the Anakims.":** This parenthetical explanation clarifies the origin of the name Kirjath-arba, linking it directly to Arba, a prominent and likely formidable leader of the Anakim. By identifying Arba as "a great man among the Anakims," the text subtly reminds the reader of the immense challenge Caleb faced and overcame, further magnifying his faith and God's power.
* **"And the land had rest from war.":** This declarative statement marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of the conquest. It signifies the successful completion of the primary military campaigns, indicating that the major phase of dispossessing the Canaanites was largely accomplished. This "rest" was essential for the subsequent orderly division and settlement of the land among the tribes, fulfilling God's promise of peace and security in their inheritance.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 14:15 employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and significance. **Etiology** is prominent, as the verse explains the origin and former name of Hebron (Kirjath-arba), linking it to Arba, a "great man among the Anakims." This provides historical context and highlights the formidable nature of the previous inhabitants. The verse also utilizes **Juxtaposition**, placing the mention of the fearsome Anakim directly before the declaration that "the land had rest from war." This contrast emphasizes the dramatic shift from intense conflict to divine peace, underscoring God's power to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Furthermore, the final clause functions as a powerful **Summary Statement**, concluding a major phase of the conquest narrative and transitioning the reader to the subsequent division of the land. This declaration of "rest" also carries a degree of **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the ultimate, spiritual rest that God promises to His people, a theme developed more fully in later biblical texts.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 14:15 stands as a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and the ultimate triumph of His covenant promises. The declaration of "rest from war" signifies not merely a cessation of physical conflict, but a divinely ordained peace and security granted to Israel in their promised inheritance. This rest is a direct fulfillment of God's word, demonstrating His power to overcome all opposition, including the formidable Anakim. It reinforces the theological truth that God fights for His people and provides for their well-being, establishing them securely in the land He promised. The verse also implicitly celebrates the faith of Caleb, whose courage in facing the Anakim was instrumental in securing this specific piece of the "rest."

* [Numbers 13:33](/numbers/13-33 "Numbers 13:33 - The Anakim")
* [Joshua 21:44](/joshua/21-44 "Joshua 21:44 - God Gives Israel Rest")
* [Hebrews 4:9](/hebrews/4-9 "The Sabbath Rest for God's People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 14:15 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. The declaration that "the land had rest from war" reminds us that God is faithful to bring about His promises, even when the journey is long and fraught with seemingly insurmountable challenges, symbolized by the Anakim. Just as Israel experienced a period of peace after their battles, we too can find spiritual rest and peace in Christ after navigating the struggles and "wars" of life. This rest is not the absence of all future conflict, but a settled peace in the assurance of God's sovereignty and His ultimate victory. Caleb's example, though not explicitly detailed in this verse, is the immediate context; his unwavering faith in God's ability to overcome the giants of Hebron serves as a powerful model for us. We are called to face our own "giants"—whether they are fears, temptations, or difficult circumstances—with similar courage, trusting that God will fight for us and lead us into His promised rest and inheritance. The peace described here is a foretaste of the deeper, spiritual peace available to those who fully trust and obey God, allowing Him to bring order and tranquility into their lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "giants" or seemingly insurmountable obstacles are you facing today, and how does Caleb's faith in God's promise encourage you to confront them?**
* **In what areas of your life are you seeking "rest from war," and how can fully trusting God's sovereignty bring that peace and security?**
* **How does the fulfillment of God's promise to Israel in Joshua 14:15 strengthen your confidence in His promises for your own life and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of Hebron being called Kirjath-arba?**

Answer: The name Kirjath-arba ("City of Arba") is significant because it connects Hebron to Arba, a "great man among the Anakims." This historical detail highlights the formidable nature of the pre-Israelite inhabitants and the immense challenge that Caleb, by faith, chose to confront and overcome. It underscores that the Israelites were not conquering empty land but dispossessing powerful, established peoples, making their victory and subsequent "rest" a clear demonstration of God's power and faithfulness.

**Does "the land had rest from war" mean all fighting stopped completely?**

Answer: No, it does not mean that all fighting ceased entirely. The phrase "rest from war" in [Joshua 14:15](/joshua/14-15 "Joshua 14:15 - Rest from War") and elsewhere in Joshua (e.g., [Joshua 11:23](/joshua/11-23 "Joshua 11:23 - The Land Had Rest")) refers to the end of the major, unified, large-scale military campaigns led by Joshua. While the primary phase of conquest was complete, localized conflicts and the dispossessing of remaining pockets of resistance continued for some time (e.g., [Joshua 15:63](/joshua/15-63 "Joshua 15:63 - Judah Could Not Drive Out the Jebusites"), [Judges 1:27-36](/judges/1 "Judges 1 - Israel Fails to Dispossess Inhabitants")). This "rest" signifies a strategic peace that allowed for the orderly distribution of the land among the tribes and the beginning of their settlement.

**Why is Caleb's inheritance of Hebron, mentioned just before this verse, so important?**

Answer: Caleb's inheritance of Hebron is profoundly important because it exemplifies unwavering faith and courage in the face of daunting challenges. Forty-five years prior, when the other spies trembled at the sight of the Anakim, Caleb alone, along with Joshua, believed God could give them the land ([Numbers 13:30](/numbers/13-30 "Numbers 13:30 - Caleb's Faith")). At 85 years old, Caleb still possessed the strength and faith to claim the very territory inhabited by these "giants" ([Joshua 14:12](/joshua/14-12 "Joshua 14:12 - Caleb's Request")). His successful conquest of Hebron, a place associated with the fearsome Anakim, serves as a powerful testament to God honoring steadfast faith and fulfilling His promises to those who trust Him fully.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 14:15, with its declaration that "the land had rest from war," powerfully foreshadows the ultimate rest and peace found in Jesus Christ. Just as Israel, after a period of intense warfare, entered into a promised land of rest, humanity, after centuries of spiritual warfare against sin, death, and the powers of darkness, finds true and lasting rest in Christ. The formidable Anakim, representing overwhelming obstacles, are a type of the spiritual enemies—sin, Satan, and death—that Christ decisively conquered on the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). He is our true Joshua, leading us into a spiritual inheritance far greater than any earthly territory. The "rest" provided by Christ is not merely a cessation of conflict, but a profound peace of soul, a liberation from the burden of sin, and the promise of eternal security ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). The Sabbath rest spoken of in [Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4 "Hebrews 4 - The Promise of Rest") finds its complete fulfillment in Him, inviting believers into a perpetual state of peace and confidence in His finished work. Ultimately, the "rest from war" in Canaan points to the new heavens and new earth, where all tears will be wiped away, and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain, for the former things will have passed away in Christ ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Death or Sorrow")).

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

Joshua 11:23

So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war.

Genesis 23:2

And Sarah died in Kirjatharba; the same [is] Hebron in the land of Canaan: and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her.

Joshua 15:13

¶ And unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh he gave a part among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the LORD to Joshua, [even] the city of Arba the father of Anak, which [city is] Hebron.

Judges 3:11

And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.

Judges 5:31

So let all thine enemies perish, O LORD: but [let] them that love him [be] as the sun when he goeth forth in his might. And the land had rest forty years.

Judges 3:30

So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land had rest fourscore years.

Judges 8:28

Thus was Midian subdued before the children of Israel, so that they lifted up their heads no more. And the country was in quietness forty years in the days of Gideon.