TRV
Translation
King James Version
And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,
Complete Jewish Bible
The cities at the outer part of the tribe of Y'hudah toward the border with Edom in the south were: Kavtze'el, 'Eder, Yagur,
Berean Standard Bible
These were the southernmost cities of the tribe of Judah in the Negev toward the border of Edom:
American Standard Version
And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the border of Edom in the South were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,
World English Bible Messianic
The farthest cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the border of Edom in the South were Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the vtmost cities of the tribe of the children of Iudah, toward the coastes of Edom Southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Iagur,
Young's Literal Translation
And the cities at the extremity of the tribe of the sons of Judah are unto the border of Edom in the south, Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,
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In the KJVVerse 6,224 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Joshua 15 verses 20–63
20 ¶ This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families.
21 And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,
22 And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah,
23 And Kedesh, and Hazor, and Ithnan,
24 Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth,
25 And Hazor, Hadattah, and Kerioth, and Hezron, which is Hazor,
26 Amam, and Shema, and Moladah,
27 And Hazargaddah, and Heshmon, and Bethpalet,
28 And Hazarshual, and Beersheba, and Bizjothjah,
29 Baalah, and Iim, and Azem,
30 And Eltolad, and Chesil, and Hormah,
31 And Ziklag, and Madmannah, and Sansannah,
32 And Lebaoth, and Shilhim, and Ain, and Rimmon: all the cities are twenty and nine, with their villages:
33 And in the valley, Eshtaol, and Zoreah, and Ashnah,
34 And Zanoah, and Engannim, Tappuah, and Enam,
35 Jarmuth, and Adullam, Socoh, and Azekah,
36 And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages:
37 Zenan, and Hadashah, and Migdalgad,
38 And Dilean, and Mizpeh, and Joktheel,
39 Lachish, and Bozkath, and Eglon,
40 And Cabbon, and Lahmam, and Kithlish,
41 And Gederoth, Bethdagon, and Naamah, and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their villages:
42 Libnah, and Ether, and Ashan,
43 And Jiphtah, and Ashnah, and Nezib,
44 And Keilah, and Achzib, and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages:
45 Ekron, with her towns and her villages:
46 From Ekron even unto the sea, all that lay near Ashdod, with their villages:
47 Ashdod with her towns and her villages, Gaza with her towns and her villages, unto the river of Egypt, and the great sea, and the border thereof:
48 And in the mountains, Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh,
49 And Dannah, and Kirjathsannah, which is Debir,
50 And Anab, and Eshtemoh, and Anim,
51 And Goshen, and Holon, and Giloh; eleven cities with their villages:
52 Arab, and Dumah, and Eshean,
53 And Janum, and Bethtappuah, and Aphekah,
54 And Humtah, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, and Zior; nine cities with their villages:
55 Maon, Carmel, and Ziph, and Juttah,
56 And Jezreel, and Jokdeam, and Zanoah,
57 Cain, Gibeah, and Timnah; ten cities with their villages:
58 Halhul, Bethzur, and Gedor,
59 And Maarath, and Bethanoth, and Eltekon; six cities with their villages:
60 Kirjathbaal, which is Kirjathjearim, and Rabbah; two cities with their villages:
61 In the wilderness, Betharabah, Middin, and Secacah,
62 And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and Engedi; six cities with their villages.
63 As for the Jebusites the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive them out: but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Judah at Jerusalem unto this day.
We have here a list of the several cities that fell within the lot of the tribe of Judah, which are mentioned by name, that they might know their own, and both keep it and keep to it, and might neither through cowardice nor sloth lose the possession of what was their own.
I. The cities are here named, and numbered in several classes, which they then could account for the reason of better than we can now. Here are, 1. Some that are said to be the uttermost cities towards the coast of Edom, Jos 15:21-32. Here are thirty-eight named, and yet said to be twenty-nine (Jos 15:32), because nine of these were afterwards transferred to the lot of Simeon, and are reckoned as belonging to that, as appears by comparing Jos 19:2, etc.; therefore those only are counted (though the rest are named) which remained to Judah. 2. Others that are said to be in the valley (Jos 15:33) are counted to be fourteen, yet fifteen are named; but it is probable that Gederah and Gederathaim were either two names or two parts of one and the same city. 3. Then sixteen are named without any head of distinction, Jos 15:37-41, and nine more, Jos 15:42-44. 4. Then the three Philistine-cities, Ekron, Ashdod, and Gaza, Jos 15:45-47. 5. Cities in the mountains, eleven in all (Jos 15:48-51), nine more (Jos 15:52-54), ten more (Jos 15:55-57), six more (Jos 15:58, Jos 15:59), then two (Jos 15:60), and six in the wilderness, a part of the country not so thick of inhabitants as some others were.
II. Now here, 1. We do not find Bethlehem, which was afterwards the city of David, and was ennobled by the birth of our Lord Jesus in it. But that city, which at the best was but little among the thousands of Judah (Mic 5:2), except that it was thus dignified, was now so little as not to be accounted one of the cities, but perhaps was one of the villages not named. Christ came to give honour to the places he was related to, not to receive honour from them. 2. Jerusalem is said to continue in the hands of the Jebusites (Jos 15:63), for the children of Judah could not drive them out, through their sluggishness, stupidity, and unbelief. Had they attempted it with vigour and resolution, we have reason to think God would not have been wanting to them to give them success; but they could not do it, because they would not. Jerusalem was afterwards to be the holy city, the royal city, the city of the great King, the brightest ornament of all the land of Israel. God has designed it should be so. It may therefore be justly looked upon as a punishment of their neglect to conquer other cities which God had given them that they were so long kept out of this. 3. Among the cities of Judah (in all 114) we meet with Libnah, which in Joram's days revolted, and probably set up for a free independent state (Kg2 8:22), and Lachish, where king Amaziah was slain (Kg1 14:19); it led the dance in idolatry (Mic 1:13); it was the beginning of sin to the daughter of Zion. Giloh, Ahithophel's town, is here mentioned, and Tekoa, of which the prophet Amos was, and near which Jehoshaphat obtained that glorious victory, Ch2 20:20, etc., and Maresha, where Asa was a conqueror. Many of the cities of this tribe occur in the history of David's troubles. Adullam, Ziph, Keilah, Maon, Engedi, Ziklag, here reckoned in this tribe, were places near which David had most of his haunts; for, though sometimes Saul drove him out from the inheritance of the Lord, yet he kept as close to it as he could. The wilderness of Judah he frequented much, and in it John Baptist preached, and there the kingdom of heaven commenced, Mat 3:1. The riches of this country no doubt answered Jacob's blessing of this tribe, that he should wash his garments in wine, Gen 49:11. And, in general, Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise, not envy.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 20–63. Public domain.
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SUMMARY
initiates a meticulous cataloging of the cities allotted to the tribe of Judah, specifically detailing its southernmost frontier. This verse names Kabzeel, Eder, and Jagur as the initial three cities situated in the "uttermost" or farthest reaches of Judah's inheritance, directly bordering the ancient kingdom of Edom to the south. This precise geographical notation underscores the divine fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land and the establishment of Israel's tribal boundaries, providing tangible evidence of their inheritance.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Joshua 15:21 is the opening verse of a lengthy and detailed enumeration of the cities assigned to the tribe of Judah, following the general description of Judah's extensive territorial boundaries in Joshua 15:1-12. This chapter, along with subsequent chapters (e.g., Joshua 16 and Joshua 17), meticulously records the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. The city lists, often grouped by geographical region (e.g., the Negeb, the Shephelah, the hill country), serve as a legal and administrative record, affirming the concrete reality of Israel's inheritance and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The precision of these lists highlights the divine order in the distribution of the land, demonstrating God's faithfulness in every detail.
Historical & Cultural Context: The period described in Joshua is the immediate aftermath of the conquest of Canaan, marking a transition from nomadic wilderness life to settled agricultural existence. Land ownership was paramount in ancient Israel, directly tied to tribal identity, economic stability, and the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant. The meticulous detailing of boundaries and cities, as seen in Joshua 15:21, reflects the importance of establishing clear territorial claims to prevent disputes and solidify the tribal structure. The mention of Edom as a southern border is significant; Edom, inhabited by the descendants of Esau, was a perpetual rival and often an enemy of Israel, making the precise demarcation of this border crucial for national security and identity, as well as for defining the extent of God's promised land.
Key Themes: This verse, as part of the broader narrative of Joshua 15, contributes to several overarching themes. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the Divine Fulfillment of Promise, demonstrating God's faithfulness in bringing His people into the land He swore to their forefathers, as first promised to Abraham in Genesis 12:7. Secondly, it emphasizes Order and Inheritance, showcasing the systematic and divinely ordained distribution of the land, ensuring each tribe received its specific portion without ambiguity. Thirdly, the detailed listing reinforces Tribal Identity and Boundaries, clearly defining the geographical extent of Judah's vast territory, particularly its strategic southern frontier adjacent to Edom, which would later become a significant point of conflict (e.g., 2 Kings 8:20-22).
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Joshua 15:21, and indeed throughout much of Joshua 15, is Enumeration. The meticulous listing of cities and boundaries serves to underscore the completeness and precision of God's fulfillment of His promise to Israel. This detailed cataloging is not merely a dry administrative record but a profound theological statement, affirming the tangible reality of the inheritance God had provided. Closely related is Geographical Precision, where specific directions ("southward") and neighboring territories ("coast of Edom") are named. This precision lends an air of historical veracity and legal authority to the text, demonstrating that the land division was a concrete, verifiable event. The very act of naming each city, even obscure ones, transforms an abstract promise into a physical reality, solidifying the identity and claims of the tribe of Judah within the Promised Land.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 15:21, as part of the extensive land distribution record, powerfully illustrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. The precise listing of cities, even those at the "uttermost" borders, underscores that God's plan is comprehensive and detailed, leaving no part of His promise unfulfilled. This meticulousness reflects the divine order and sovereignty over the land and its people. It demonstrates that God's word is not vague but precise, ensuring that every detail, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the grand narrative of His redemptive purposes. The land inheritance was not merely a geographical acquisition but a tangible sign of God's covenant loyalty and a foundation for Israel's identity as His chosen people, living in the place He prepared for them.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While a list of ancient cities might appear to be a dry, historical detail, Joshua 15:21 offers profound spiritual lessons for believers today. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of precision, detail, and unwavering faithfulness. Just as He meticulously fulfilled His ancient promises to Israel by dividing the land down to its "uttermost" borders, so too does He work out His purposes in our lives with exactitude. This verse encourages us to trust in God's comprehensive plan, even when it unfolds slowly or involves seemingly mundane processes. It assures us that every detail of His word is reliable and that His promises, whether personal or universal, will ultimately come to pass. Our inheritance in Christ is just as real and divinely secured as Judah's land inheritance was, prompting us to live with confidence in His sovereign care and the certainty of His future promises, knowing that His faithfulness extends to the minutiae of our lives.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are these long lists of cities important in the book of Joshua?
Answer: These detailed lists, like the one beginning in Joshua 15:21, are crucial for several reasons. Firstly, they serve as a legal and administrative record, documenting the precise fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to Israel (Genesis 12:7). They provide tangible proof that the conquest was real and the land was indeed divided. Secondly, they establish clear boundaries for each tribe, preventing disputes and solidifying tribal identity. Thirdly, they underscore God's meticulousness and faithfulness; every detail of His plan, down to the specific cities, is important and comes to pass. Finally, these lists often connect to later historical events, providing geographical context for future narratives involving these places and demonstrating the enduring legacy of God's faithfulness.
What is the significance of "the coast of Edom southward" in this verse?
Answer: The mention of Edom is highly significant. Edom was the territory of the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and historically, the relationship between Israel and Edom was often fraught with tension and conflict (e.g., Numbers 20:14-21). By explicitly stating that Judah's "uttermost cities" bordered Edom, Joshua 15:21 defines a critical geopolitical frontier. This precise boundary demarcation was essential for national security, preventing encroachment, and establishing the divinely ordained limits of Israel's inheritance against a frequently hostile neighbor. It highlights the practical, real-world implications of God's land distribution, ensuring both security and the integrity of the promised territory.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 15:21 details a physical land inheritance, it profoundly foreshadows the spiritual inheritance found in Christ. The meticulous precision with which God allotted the land to Judah speaks to the absolute certainty and comprehensiveness of the New Covenant promises. Just as Kabzeel, Eder, and Jagur marked the "uttermost" borders of Judah's physical possession, so too does Christ secure for believers an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). The land of Canaan was a type of the ultimate rest and dwelling place God provides for His people, a rest fully realized in Christ, who is our true "Promised Land" and the source of our spiritual peace (Hebrews 4:9-10). The fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land finds its ultimate and expansive spiritual reality in the global family of God, redeemed by the Lamb, whose citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Christ, as the true Son of David and King of Judah, not only fulfills the tribal lineage but also expands the concept of God's people and their inheritance beyond geographical boundaries to encompass all who believe, granting them a spiritual dwelling place in Him that extends to the "uttermost parts of the earth" through the spreading of His gospel (Acts 1:8).