Joshua 15:17

KJV

And Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Othniel {H6274} the son {H1121} of Kenaz {H7073}, the brother {H251} of Caleb {H3612}, took {H3920} it: and he gave {H5414} him Achsah {H5915} his daughter {H1323} to wife {H802}.

Complete Jewish Bible

'Otni'el the son of K'naz, Kalev's brother, captured it; so he gave him 'Akhsah his daughter as his wife.

Berean Standard Bible

So Othniel son of Caleb’s brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Acsah to him in marriage.

American Standard Version

And Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 15:17 succinctly records the successful military action of Othniel, son of Kenaz and brother of Caleb, who captured the formidable Canaanite stronghold of Kiriath-sepher (also known as Debir). In fulfillment of Caleb's prior challenge and promise, Othniel was justly rewarded with Caleb's daughter, Achsah, as his wife. This pivotal verse highlights individual valor and integrity within the broader narrative of the tribe of Judah's land inheritance, demonstrating the ongoing process of dispossessing the inhabitants of Canaan and settling the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the detailed account of the land distribution to the tribe of Judah in [Joshua 15](/joshua/15 "Joshua 15 - Judah's Inheritance"). It immediately follows Caleb's personal request for Hebron, a region inhabited by the formidable Anakim, and his subsequent challenge in [Joshua 15:16](/joshua/15-16 "Joshua 15:16 - Caleb's Challenge and Promise"). Caleb had publicly declared that whoever successfully conquered Kiriath-sepher would be given his daughter Achsah in marriage. Verse 17 then provides the direct and concise fulfillment of this challenge, narrating Othniel's immediate and decisive success. This mini-narrative continues with Achsah's own request for additional land and water sources from her father in [Joshua 15:18-19](/joshua/15-18-19 "Joshua 15:18-19 - Achsah's Request for Springs"). This embedded story within the larger geographical survey serves to underscore Caleb's unwavering character, the valor of his kinsman Othniel, and the practical realities of settling the allotted territory. It also subtly introduces Othniel, who will later emerge as the first judge of Israel, thereby providing a significant narrative bridge to the book of Judges.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for Joshua 15:17 is the post-conquest period, where the Israelite tribes are actively engaged in the process of dispossessing the remaining Canaanite inhabitants and establishing themselves within their divinely allotted territories. Kiriath-sepher, also known as Debir, was a significant Canaanite city, likely a fortified stronghold that may have served as a center for learning or worship, given its name "City of Book" or "City of Scribe." The Anakim, mentioned in connection with Caleb's territory, were renowned as a race of formidable, giant-like people, making the conquest of their cities a profound testament to both Israelite courage and divine assistance. The cultural practice of offering a daughter as a reward for a heroic deed, particularly in military contexts, was a recognized custom in the ancient Near East. This type of arrangement not only honored the conquering hero but also served to solidify alliances, strengthen social bonds, and perpetuate the lineage and influence of powerful clans, such as Caleb's, ensuring the continued vitality of the tribal structure.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 15:17 contributes significantly to several overarching themes present throughout the book of Joshua and the broader Deuteronomistic history. The theme of **Faithfulness and Reward** is prominently displayed, as Caleb, a man of integrity, scrupulously fulfills his promise to Othniel, reflecting God's own unwavering faithfulness in granting the Promised Land to Israel. This act also illustrates the principle that God honors those who act in faith and courage. The verse also highlights **Courage and Initiative**, showcasing Othniel's willingness to undertake a dangerous and challenging task that others might have avoided, echoing Caleb's own courageous spirit and wholehearted devotion to the Lord, as seen in [Numbers 14:24](/numbers/14-24 "Numbers 14:24 - Caleb's Faithfulness"). Furthermore, this passage subtly introduces the theme of **Emerging Leadership**, as Othniel, through this act of valor and his close familial connection to Caleb, is established as a figure of growing significance, foreshadowing his later anointing as the first judge of Israel, a role detailed in [Judges 3:9-11](/judges/3-9-11 "Judges 3:9-11 - Othniel, the First Judge of Israel"). The ongoing **Conquest and Settlement** of the Promised Land is also vividly portrayed, as individual acts of bravery and obedience contribute to the larger divine mandate to possess the inheritance God had promised.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Othniel (Hebrew, _ʻOthnîyʼêl'_):** From the same root as `ʻOthnî` (forceful) and `ʼêl` (God), meaning "force of God" or "God is my strength." This name is deeply significant, prophetically foreshadowing his future role as a deliverer and judge empowered directly by God. His act of conquering Debir here serves as a powerful demonstration of the divine strength implied by his name, establishing his credentials for later leadership.
* **took (Hebrew, _lâkad'_):** This primitive root means "to catch (in a net, trap or pit)," and more generally, "to capture or occupy." In this context, it is a strong military term emphasizing the active, forceful, and decisive nature of Othniel's conquest. It highlights that Kiriath-sepher was not simply surrendered but had to be won through battle and strategic prowess, underscoring the challenge involved.
* **daughter (Hebrew, _bath'_):** Derived from the root `bânah` (to build), this word refers to a female offspring, used in a wide sense of relationship. In this verse, it specifically denotes Achsah as Caleb's biological daughter. The giving of his `bath` to Othniel signifies a deeply personal and significant reward, cementing a familial bond and transferring lineage, status, and potentially inheritance, into Othniel's household, linking him directly to Caleb's esteemed family.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Othniel the son of Kenaz":** This opening clause introduces the main human agent of the action, Othniel, immediately identifying him by his patronymic, "son of Kenaz." This lineage is important as Kenaz was a prominent clan within the tribe of Judah, establishing Othniel's tribal identity and standing within the community.
* **"the brother of Caleb":** This crucial phrase clarifies Othniel's direct familial relationship with Caleb, one of Israel's most respected and faithful figures. This connection is vital for understanding Othniel's immediate context within Caleb's challenge and his future role. It implies a shared heritage of faith, courage, and a legitimate claim to participate in Caleb's significant endeavor.
* **"took it":** This remarkably concise phrase refers to Othniel's successful capture of Kiriath-sepher (Debir), the city mentioned in the preceding verse. The brevity of "took it" powerfully emphasizes the decisive and effective nature of his victory, signifying the immediate fulfillment of the condition set by Caleb.
* **"and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife":** This final clause describes the promised reward Othniel received for his valor. Caleb, demonstrating his integrity and faithfulness to his word, bestows his daughter Achsah upon Othniel in marriage. This act signifies the fulfillment of a solemn promise, the public honoring of a hero, and the strengthening of familial and tribal ties within the powerful clan of Judah.

#### Literary Devices
The narrative of Joshua 15:17 masterfully employs several effective literary devices. **Conciseness** is strikingly evident in the direct and unadorned statement "took it," which powerfully conveys Othniel's decisive victory without needing elaborate description. This brevity focuses the reader's attention on the action itself and its immediate consequence. **Character Introduction** is subtly achieved, as Othniel is presented not merely as a minor participant but as a figure of inherent significance through his lineage and his close familial connection to Caleb, thereby laying crucial groundwork for his later prominence in Israel's history. The verse also utilizes **Foreshadowing**, as Othniel's valor and his association with Caleb prefigure his anointing by the Spirit of the Lord to become Israel's first judge, a deliverer who would save Israel from oppression, as vividly detailed in [Judges 3](/judges/3 "Judges 3 - Othniel and Ehud"). Finally, the entire passage functions as a **Microcosm** of the larger conquest narrative, demonstrating how individual acts of courage, faithfulness to promises, and divine enablement collectively contribute to the overall fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 15:17, though seemingly a simple record of a military exploit and a marriage, is rich in profound theological implications. It powerfully underscores the divine pattern of human agency working in concert with God's sovereign plan. While Othniel's courage, skill, and initiative are rightly highlighted, his ultimate success in conquering a formidable city points beyond mere human capability to God's enabling power and presence, without which the conquest of Canaan would have been utterly impossible. The verse also speaks volumes about the importance of integrity and covenant faithfulness, exemplified by Caleb's unwavering commitment to his solemn promise, which beautifully reflects God's own immutable faithfulness to His covenant with Israel to give them the land. This act of rewarding valor also illustrates a key biblical principle: God honors those who honor Him and act courageously in faith, demonstrating that obedience and trust lead to divine blessing.

* [Judges 3:9-11](/judges/3-9-11 "Judges 3:9-11 - Othniel, the First Judge of Israel")
* [Numbers 14:24](/numbers/14-24 "Numbers 14:24 - Caleb's Faithfulness and Reward")
* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "Deuteronomy 7:9 - God's Faithfulness to His Covenant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The concise yet impactful account of Othniel's valor and Caleb's unwavering integrity in Joshua 15:17 offers timeless and profound lessons for contemporary believers. Othniel's willingness to step forward and undertake a challenging and dangerous task, even when others might have hesitated, serves as a powerful reminder for us to embrace courage and initiative in the face of daunting circumstances. This principle extends beyond physical battles to encompass spiritual warfare, ethical dilemmas, difficult callings, or seemingly impossible tasks in our lives. We are called to exhibit faith and boldness, trusting that God will equip and empower us for the tasks He sets before us, just as He evidently empowered Othniel. Furthermore, Caleb's unwavering commitment to his promise highlights the critical importance of integrity and truthfulness in our words and actions. In a world often characterized by broken promises, the biblical emphasis on honoring one's word stands as a beacon for building trust, strengthening relationships, and reflecting the very faithfulness of God Himself. Recognizing and justly rewarding merit, as Caleb did, also encourages a healthy culture of excellence, diligence, and accountability within our families, communities, and churches, fostering an environment where faithfulness and courageous effort are celebrated and affirmed.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "Kiriath-sephers" (daunting challenges or spiritual strongholds) might God be calling you to conquer in your life or ministry today, and what courage is required to step forward?**
* **How does Caleb's integrity in fulfilling his promise challenge you to be more faithful and truthful in your own commitments, vows, and everyday interactions?**
* **In what practical ways can you, like Caleb, recognize and affirm the efforts, achievements, and faithfulness of others in your community or church, fostering a culture of encouragement and honor?**

### FAQ
**Who was Othniel, and why is his conquest of Kiriath-sepher significant?**

Answer: Othniel was the son of Kenaz and the brother (or close kinsman) of Caleb, one of the two faithful spies from the Exodus generation. His conquest of Kiriath-sepher (also known as Debir) was significant for several reasons. Militarily, it was a formidable Canaanite stronghold, and its capture demonstrated Othniel's valor and God's continued assistance in the Israelite conquest of the Promised Land. Theologically, it fulfilled Caleb's challenge and solemn promise, highlighting the importance of integrity and the keeping of vows within Israelite society. Personally, this act served to introduce Othniel as a key figure, foreshadowing his later, more prominent role as the first judge of Israel, empowered by the Spirit of the Lord to deliver the people from oppression, as recorded in [Judges 3:9-11](/judges/3-9-11 "Judges 3:9-11 - Othniel, the First Judge of Israel"). This initial act of valor established his credentials as a capable and divinely favored leader.

**What was the cultural significance of Caleb giving his daughter Achsah as a wife to Othniel?**

Answer: In ancient Near Eastern cultures, offering a daughter as a reward for a heroic deed, especially in battle, was a highly significant act that served multiple purposes beyond a simple transaction. It was considered a profound honor bestowed upon the conquering hero, publicly acknowledging his bravery, military prowess, and the value of his contribution. For the father, it demonstrated his integrity in fulfilling a solemn vow made before the community. For the daughter, while seemingly a patriarchal arrangement, it often meant marriage into a powerful and respected family, thereby ensuring her security, status, and often, a share in the family's inheritance, as Achsah herself demonstrates in the subsequent verses. In this specific case, it solidified the familial ties between Caleb's influential clan and Othniel, a rising figure, thereby strengthening the lineage and influence within the tribe of Judah. It was a public affirmation of Othniel's worth and his deep integration into Caleb's esteemed family.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 15:17 describes a specific act of military conquest and a subsequent reward in the Old Testament, it powerfully foreshadows the ultimate conquest and divine reward found in Jesus Christ. Othniel, whose very name means "Force of God" or "God is my strength," conquers a formidable stronghold and receives a bride as his reward. This narrative beautifully mirrors Christ, the true Lion of Judah, whose strength is from God alone, and who came to conquer the ultimate stronghold of sin, death, and the powers of darkness, not through physical warfare but through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection. The [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), through His decisive victory on the cross, "took it" – He disarmed the spiritual rulers and authorities, triumphing over them by the cross, making a public spectacle of them ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). His ultimate reward, as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:10-12](/isaiah/53-10-12 "Isaiah 53:10-12 - The Suffering Servant's Reward"), is a people for Himself, His church, which the New Testament consistently portrays as the [Bride of Christ](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25 - Christ and the Church as Bride and Groom"). Just as Achsah was given to Othniel as a testament to his valor and faithfulness, so too are believers, cleansed and made holy by Christ's redemptive work, presented to Him as His radiant bride, without stain or wrinkle, at His glorious return ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Bride, the Church")). Othniel's act of valor and the subsequent marriage thus serve as a beautiful, albeit imperfect, type of Christ's ultimate victory over evil and His eternal, covenantal union with His redeemed people.

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

Judges 3:9

And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, [even] Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother.

Judges 1:13

And Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother, took it: and he gave him Achsah his daughter to wife.

Joshua 14:6

¶ Then the children of Judah came unto Joshua in Gilgal: and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite said unto him, Thou knowest the thing that the LORD said unto Moses the man of God concerning me and thee in Kadeshbarnea.

Judges 3:11

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

Numbers 32:12

Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite, and Joshua the son of Nun: for they have wholly followed the LORD.

1 Chronicles 2:49

She bare also Shaaph the father of Madmannah, Sheva the father of Machbenah, and the father of Gibea: and the daughter of Caleb [was] Achsah.