Joshua 15:24

Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth,

Ziph {H2128}, and Telem {H2928}, and Bealoth {H1175},

Zif, Telem, Be'alot,

Ziph, Telem, Bealoth,

Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth,

Commentary

Joshua 15:24 (KJV): "Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth,"

Context

This verse is part of a lengthy and meticulous catalog of cities allotted to the tribe of Judah, as recorded in Joshua chapter 15. Following the successful conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership, the book transitions to the division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Judah, being the largest and most significant tribe, received the most extensive territory. Verses 21-62 detail the many towns and villages within Judah's inheritance, grouped by geographical region. Joshua 15:24 specifically lists three towns located in the "uttermost part of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward" (Joshua 15:21). These detailed lists served as legal documents, defining tribal boundaries and ensuring the fulfillment of God's ancient promises regarding the land.

Key Themes

  • Fulfillment of God's Promises: The precise listing of cities underscores God's faithfulness in delivering on His covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants, granting them the promised land (Genesis 12:7). Every detail, including seemingly obscure place names, confirms the historical reality of this divine fulfillment.
  • Divine Order and Inheritance: The systematic division of the land, down to individual cities, highlights God's orderly nature. It established clear boundaries for each tribe, preventing future disputes and ensuring that each family received its designated inheritance, reflecting the importance of secure possession in ancient Israel.
  • Historical and Geographical Accuracy: The inclusion of such specific geographical details, even for towns that might not be prominent elsewhere in Scripture, lends credibility to the biblical narrative. It reflects a deep knowledge of the land and its settlements during that period.

Linguistic Insights

The names "Ziph," "Telem," and "Bealoth" are Hebrew place names. While their etymology (word origin) is not the primary focus here, their inclusion serves to precisely delineate the territory. Ziph, in particular, is mentioned again in later biblical narratives as a place where David hid from King Saul (1 Samuel 23:14). This reinforces the historical reality and continuity of these locations within the biblical timeline.

Practical Application

While a list of ancient cities might seem dry, Joshua 15:24, like the entire chapter, offers valuable insights. It reminds us of God's meticulous attention to detail and His unwavering commitment to fulfilling His promises. Just as He precisely provided for the tribes of Israel, so too does He care for the specific needs and inheritances of His people today. It encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness, knowing that even in seemingly small or overlooked details, His hand is at work to bring about His perfect plan.

Note: Commentary was generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please remember that only the commentary section is AI-generated. The main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are sourced from trusted and verified materials.

Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 23:14

    ¶ And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand.

  • 1 Samuel 23:24

    And they arose, and went to Ziph before Saul: but David and his men [were] in the wilderness of Maon, in the plain on the south of Jeshimon.

  • 1 Samuel 23:19

    ¶ Then came up the Ziphites to Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself with us in strong holds in the wood, in the hill of Hachilah, which [is] on the south of Jeshimon?

  • Psalms 54:1

    ¶ To the chief Musician on Neginoth, Maschil, [A Psalm] of David, when the Ziphims came and said to Saul, Doth not David hide himself with us? Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.

  • 1 Samuel 15:4

    And Saul gathered the people together, and numbered them in Telaim, two hundred thousand footmen, and ten thousand men of Judah.
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