What number verse is Joshua 15:2 in the Bible?

Joshua 15:2 is the 6,205th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Joshua 15:2 sits at position 6,205.

Translation

King James Version

And their south border was from the shore of the salt sea, from the bay that looketh southward:

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KJV (with Strong's)

And their south ^H5045 border ^H1366 was from the shore ^H7097 of the salt ^H4417 sea ^H3220, from the bay ^H3956 that looketh ^H6437 southward ^H5045:

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Complete Jewish Bible

Their southern border began at the far shore of the Dead Sea, from the bay facing southward,

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Berean Standard Bible

Their southern border started at the bay on the southern tip of the Salt Sea,

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American Standard Version

And their south border was from the uttermost part of the Salt Sea, from the bay that looketh southward;

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World English Bible Messianic

Their south border was from the uttermost part of the Salt Sea, from the bay that looks southward;

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And their South border was the salt Sea coast, from the point that looketh Southward.

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Young's Literal Translation

and to them the south border is at the extremity of the salt sea, from the bay which is looking southward;

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Joshua 15:2 precisely delineates the initial segment of the southern boundary for the tribe of Judah, commencing at the western shore of the highly saline Salt Sea, specifically from a distinctive bay or inlet that is oriented towards the south. This meticulous geographical demarcation serves as a foundational detail within the larger narrative of land distribution, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Israel by granting them their long-awaited inheritance in the Promised Land.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Joshua 15:2 is situated within the extensive and highly detailed geographical survey of the land allotments to the Israelite tribes, particularly focusing on Judah's inheritance in Joshua 15. This chapter follows the general instructions for land division given in Joshua 14 and precedes the specific allocations to other tribes, such as Ephraim and Manasseh in Joshua 16. The meticulous recording of boundaries throughout Joshua 13-19 emphasizes the orderly and divinely ordained process of settling the twelve tribes in Canaan, ensuring each received their designated portion as an enduring inheritance. The precision of these descriptions served as a vital legal and historical document for future generations, preventing disputes and solidifying tribal identity and claims.
Historical & Cultural Context: Following the successful military campaigns under Joshua's leadership, the division of the land was the crucial next step in establishing Israel as a settled nation, thereby fulfilling the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob centuries earlier (e.g., Genesis 12:7). The "Salt Sea" (Dead Sea) was a prominent and unmistakable natural landmark, serving as a clear eastern anchor for Judah's southern border. For the ancient Israelites, land was not merely property; it was intrinsically linked to their covenant identity, their national security, and their spiritual well-being. The meticulous delineation of these borders, often involving natural features like seas, rivers, and wadis, reflected a practical need for clear boundaries in an agrarian society and a theological acknowledgment of God's precise provision. This act of possession solidified their transition from nomadic wanderers to a settled people in their God-given homeland, establishing the physical parameters of their national existence.
Key Themes: This verse, as part of Judah's land allocation, contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. First, it powerfully illustrates Divine Fulfillment and Faithfulness, demonstrating that God meticulously keeps His promises, even down to the specific geographical details of the land promised to their ancestors (e.g., Numbers 34:3). Second, it highlights the theme of Inheritance and Possession, emphasizing that the land was a gift, an enduring patrimony for each tribe, foundational to their identity and prosperity within the covenant nation. The act of receiving and occupying this land was a tangible manifestation of God's blessing and a sign of their secure place within His covenant. Third, the detailed nature of the description underscores Divine Order and Specificity, revealing God's meticulous planning and the structured process by which Israel was established in their new homeland, reflecting His character as a God of order, not chaos, and His commitment to precise execution of His will.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Border (Hebrew, gᵉbûwl', H1366): This term refers to a boundary or limit, often marked by a cord or line, and by extension, the territory enclosed by such a boundary. In Joshua 15:2, it specifically denotes the defined line that separates Judah's territory from its southern neighbors, emphasizing the legal and precise nature of the land division. This word underscores the concept of a divinely appointed and clearly delineated inheritance.
Sea (Hebrew, yâm', H3220): This word refers to a large body of water, often the Mediterranean Sea, but here specifically the Salt Sea (Dead Sea). Its root suggests a "roaring" or noisy surf, though the Salt Sea is known for its stillness due to high salinity. As a prominent, unmoving natural feature, the "sea" serves as an unmistakable and fixed point for defining the eastern anchor of Judah's southern boundary, highlighting the clarity and permanence of the border.
Bay (Hebrew, lâshôwn', H3956): This word literally means "tongue." Here, it is used metaphorically to describe a specific geographical feature—an inlet, a promontory, or a projecting arm of the sea. The use of "tongue" suggests a narrow, elongated extension of the water body or land, providing a highly specific and identifiable marker for the border. This detail reinforces the meticulousness of the land division, indicating a precise point at the southern extremity of the Salt Sea.

Verse Breakdown

"And their south border was from the shore of the salt sea": This initial clause establishes the starting point and general orientation of Judah's southern boundary. It indicates that the border began at the eastern edge of their territory, along the western shore of the Dead Sea (the "Salt Sea"), which formed a natural and unchangeable landmark. This initial marker anchors the entire southern line, providing a clear and undisputed reference point for the extensive territory that Judah was to inherit, signifying the beginning of their divinely allotted land.
"from the bay that looketh southward": This phrase further refines the precise starting point, specifying a particular geographical feature on the Salt Sea's shore. It's not just anywhere along the shore, but from a distinct "bay" or "tongue" of land/water that projects or is oriented towards the south. This level of detail highlights the meticulous care taken in defining the tribal territories, ensuring exactness and minimizing future disputes over land ownership. It points to a specific, recognizable geographical feature, demonstrating the precision of God's provision and the thoroughness of the land division.

Literary Devices

The primary literary device at play in Joshua 15:2 and the surrounding chapters is Geographical Precision. The text employs highly specific place names and natural features (like the "Salt Sea" and "bay") to meticulously delineate boundaries. This isn't mere descriptive prose; it functions as a legal and historical document, affirming the tangible fulfillment of God's promises. The Repetition of such detailed boundary descriptions throughout Joshua 13-19 further emphasizes the divine order and the thoroughness with which the land was distributed. This meticulousness also serves a Verisimilitude purpose, lending credibility and historical weight to the narrative by grounding it in identifiable physical reality, assuring the reader of the historical accuracy and divine authority behind these allocations.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Joshua 15:2, though seemingly a dry geographical detail, is profoundly theological. It stands as a tangible testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and His meticulous care in fulfilling His covenant promises. The precise demarcation of Judah's border, starting at an undeniable landmark like the Salt Sea, underscores that God's word is not vague but concrete, specific, and ultimately fulfilled. Just as God promised Abraham a land for his descendants (e.g., Genesis 15:18), this verse shows the tangible realization of that ancient oath. It reminds us that God's promises are not abstract concepts but are worked out in the realities of history and geography. This meticulous fulfillment provides a bedrock for faith, assuring believers that God is true to His word in all generations, demonstrating His sovereignty over the earth and His commitment to His people.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The detailed geographical descriptions in Joshua, including Joshua 15:2, might initially seem tedious, but they are rich with spiritual lessons. They remind us of God's incredible attention to detail and His unwavering commitment to His promises. Just as He meticulously outlined and delivered the physical inheritance to Judah, He is equally precise and faithful in fulfilling His spiritual promises to us. This verse encourages us to trust in God's perfect planning and provision, even when our own paths seem unclear or uncertain. It teaches us that God works with order and purpose, establishing boundaries and blessings for our good, always with our ultimate welfare in mind. Our spiritual inheritance in Christ is far greater than any physical land, encompassing eternal life, spiritual blessings, and a future hope (e.g., Ephesians 1:3-14). This passage invites us to reflect on the certainty of God's word and to live within the boundaries of His will, knowing that His plans for us are for welfare and not for evil, to give us a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). It calls us to rest in His sovereign care and to gratefully receive all that He has prepared for us.

Questions for Reflection

How does the meticulous detail of God's provision for Judah's land inheritance encourage your trust in His provision for your life today?
In what ways do you see God's "boundaries" or "order" at work in your own life, and how do you respond to them as expressions of His love and wisdom?
What aspects of your spiritual inheritance in Christ do you need to appreciate more fully, and how can you "possess" them more completely in your daily walk of faith?

FAQ

Why is the Bible so detailed about geographical boundaries in books like Joshua?

Answer: The detailed geographical descriptions, such as the one in Joshua 15:2, serve several crucial purposes. Firstly, they act as a legal and historical record, documenting the precise fulfillment of God's ancient covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants regarding the land of Canaan (e.g., Genesis 12:7). This meticulousness underscores God's faithfulness and the tangible reality of His word. Secondly, these details were vital for establishing tribal identity and preventing future disputes over land ownership among the Israelite tribes. Each tribe knew its exact inheritance, which was foundational to their social, economic, and political structure. Thirdly, it emphasizes the divine order and meticulous planning involved in settling Israel in their new homeland, demonstrating God's sovereignty over all creation, including geography, and His commitment to an orderly establishment of His people.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Joshua 15:2 describes a physical inheritance for a specific tribe, its ultimate fulfillment points to the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ. The land of Canaan, with its defined borders, served as a type or shadow of the greater, eternal inheritance that God provides through His Son. Just as Joshua led Israel into their promised land, Jesus, our true Joshua (a Greek equivalent of the name), leads His people into a spiritual "rest" and an eternal inheritance that transcends earthly boundaries (Hebrews 4:8-10). Our identity as believers is not tied to a physical territory but to our union with Christ, through whom we have been "blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3). The meticulous precision of Judah's border foreshadows the perfect and comprehensive work of Christ, who secures for us an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). Thus, the physical possession of land in Joshua finds its glorious and eternal reality in the spiritual blessings and heavenly citizenship that are ours through the finished work of the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

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Commentary on Joshua 15 verses 1–12

1 ¶ This then was the lot of the tribe of the children of Judah by their families; even to the border of Edom the wilderness of Zin southward was the uttermost part of the south coast.

2 And their south border was from the shore of the salt sea, from the bay that looketh southward:

3 And it went out to the south side to Maalehacrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and ascended up on the south side unto Kadeshbarnea, and passed along to Hezron, and went up to Adar, and fetched a compass to Karkaa:

4 From thence it passed toward Azmon, and went out unto the river of Egypt; and the goings out of that coast were at the sea: this shall be your south coast.

5 And the east border was the salt sea, even unto the end of Jordan. And their border in the north quarter was from the bay of the sea at the uttermost part of Jordan:

6 And the border went up to Bethhogla, and passed along by the north of Betharabah; and the border went up to the stone of Bohan the son of Reuben:

7 And the border went up toward Debir from the valley of Achor, and so northward, looking toward Gilgal, that is before the going up to Adummim, which is on the south side of the river: and the border passed toward the waters of Enshemesh, and the goings out thereof were at Enrogel:

8 And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same is Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that lieth before the valley of Hinnom westward, which is at the end of the valley of the giants northward:

9 And the border was drawn from the top of the hill unto the fountain of the water of Nephtoah, and went out to the cities of mount Ephron; and the border was drawn to Baalah, which is Kirjathjearim:

10 And the border compassed from Baalah westward unto mount Seir, and passed along unto the side of mount Jearim, which is Chesalon, on the north side, and went down to Bethshemesh, and passed on to Timnah:

11 And the border went out unto the side of Ekron northward: and the border was drawn to Shicron, and passed along to mount Baalah, and went out unto Jabneel; and the goings out of the border were at the sea.

12 And the west border was to the great sea, and the coast thereof. This is the coast of the children of Judah round about according to their families.

Judah and Joseph were the two sons of Jacob on whom Reuben's forfeited birth-right devolved. Judah had the dominion entailed on him, and Joseph the double portion, and therefore these two tribes were first seated, Judah in the southern part of the land of Canaan and Joseph in the northern part, and on them the other seven did attend, and had their respective lots as appurtenances to these two; the lots of Benjamin, Simeon, and Dan, were appendant to Judah, and those of Issachar and Zebulun, Naphtali and Asher, to Joseph. These two were first set up to be provided for, it should seem, before there was such an exact survey of the land as we find afterwards, Jos 18:9. It is probable that the most considerable parts of the northern and southern countries, and those that lay nearest to Gilgal, and which the people were best acquainted with, were first put into two portions, and the lot was cast upon them between these two principal tribes, of the one of which Joshua was, and of the other Caleb, who was the first commissioner in this writ of partition; and, by the decision of that lot, the southern country, of which we have an account in this chapter, fell to Judah, and the northern, of which we have an account in the two following chapters, to Joseph. And when this was done there was a more equal dividend (either in quantity or quality) of the remainder among the seven tribes. And this, probably, was intended in that general rule which was given concerning this partition (Num 33:54), to the more you shall give the more inheritance, and to the fewer you shall give the less, and every man's inheritance shall be where his lot falleth; that is, "You shall appoint two greater portions which shall be determined by lot to those more numerous tribes of Judah and Joseph, and then the rest shall be less portions to be allotted to the less numerous tribes." The former was done in Gilgal, the latter in Shiloh.

In these verses, we have the borders of the lot of Judah, which, as the rest, is said to be by their families, that is, with an eye to the number of their families. And it intimates that Joshua and Eleazar, and the rest of the commissioners, when they had by lot given each tribe its portion, did afterwards (it is probable by lot likewise) subdivide those larger portions, and assign to each family its inheritance, and then to each household, which would be better done by this supreme authority, and be apt to give less disgust than if it had been left to the inferior magistrates of each tribe to make that distribution. The borders of this tribe are here largely fixed, yet not unalterably, for a good deal of that which lies within these bounds was afterwards assigned to the lots of Simeon and Dan. 1. The eastern border was all, and only, the Salt Sea, Jos 15:5. Every sea is salt, but this was of an extraordinary and more than natural saltness, the effects of that fire and brimstone with which Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed in Abraham's time, whose ruins lie buried in the bottom of this dead water, which never either was moved itself or had any living thing in it. 2. The southern border was that of the land of Canaan in general, as will appear by comparing Jos 15:1-4 with Num 34:3-5. So that this powerful and warlike tribe of Judah guarded the frontiers of the whole land, on that side which lay towards their old sworn enemies (though their two fathers were twin-brethren), the Edomites. Our Lord therefore, who sprang out of Judah, and whose the kingdom is, shall judge the mount of Esau, Oba 1:21. 3. The northern border divided it from the lot of Benjamin. In this, mention is made of the stone of Bohan a Reubenite (Jos 15:6), who probably was a great commander of those forces of Reuben that came over Jordan, and died in the camp at Gilgal, and was buried not far off under this stone. The valley of Achor likewise lies upon this border (Jos 15:7), to remind the men of Judah of the trouble which Achan, one of their tribe, gave to the congregation of Israel, that they might not be too much lifted up with their services. This northern line touched closely upon Jerusalem (Jos 15:8), so closely as to include in the lot of this tribe Mount Zion and Mount Moriah, though the greater part of the city lay in the lot of Benjamin. 4. The west border went near to the great sea at first (Jos 15:12), but afterwards the lot of the tribe of Dan took off a good part of Judah's lot on that side; for the lot was only to determine between Judah and Joseph, which should have the north and which the south, and not immovably to fix the border of either. Judah's inheritance had its boundaries determined. Though it was a powerful warlike tribe, and had a great interest in the other tribes, yet they must not therefore be left to their own choice, to enlarge their possessions at pleasure, but must live so as that their neighbours might live by them. Those that are placed high yet must not think to be placed alone in the midst of the earth.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–12. Public domain.

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Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

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Cross-References

Genesis 14:3
All these were joined together in the vale of Siddim, which is the salt sea.
Ezekiel 47:8
Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea: which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed.
Isaiah 11:15
And the LORD shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make men go over dryshod.
Ezekiel 47:18
And the east side ye shall measure from Hauran, and from Damascus, and from Gilead, and from the land of Israel by Jordan, from the border unto the east sea. And this is the east side.
Numbers 34:3
Then your south quarter shall be from the wilderness of Zin along by the coast of Edom, and your south border shall be the outmost coast of the salt sea eastward:
Joshua 3:16
That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho.