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Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Joshua 15:20–63. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
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.
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Summary
Joshua 15:38, a concise yet profoundly significant verse, meticulously enumerates three cities—Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel—as integral components of the territorial inheritance divinely allotted to the tribe of Judah. Situated within the Shephelah, the strategically vital lowlands region, this verse contributes to the comprehensive cadastral record of the land division, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Israel through precise, ordered, and tangible possession of the Promised Land. It stands as a testament to divine meticulousness in the grand narrative of redemption and settlement.
Context
Literary Context
Joshua 15 inaugurates the detailed account of the land inheritance for the tribe of Judah, the largest and most prominent of the Israelite tribes. Following the successful military campaigns against the Canaanites, the book transitions from conquest to settlement, with chapters 13-19 meticulously detailing the division of the land among the tribes by lot, as commanded by God. Chapter 15 itself is an extensive geographical survey, beginning with Judah's boundaries, detailed in Joshua 15:1-12. The chapter then proceeds to list its cities by region: the Negeb (Joshua 15:21-32), the Shephelah (Joshua 15:33-47), the Hill Country (Joshua 15:48-60), and the Wilderness (Joshua 15:61-62). Joshua 15:38 falls squarely within the Shephelah list, a section that highlights the strategic and agricultural importance of this transitional zone between the coastal plain and the central highlands. The inclusion of these specific names, though seemingly mundane, serves to legally document and affirm the tribal claims, providing a permanent record of the divine allocation.
Historical & Cultural Context
The division of the land was a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking their transition from nomadic wanderers to a settled nation. This process fulfilled the ancient covenant promise made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that their descendants would inherit the land of Canaan, as recorded in Genesis 12:7. The method of division by lot, as seen in Numbers 26:55-56, was understood as a divine act, ensuring impartiality and God's sovereign hand in the allocation. These detailed city lists functioned as legal deeds or charters in ancient Near Eastern societies, establishing clear boundaries and ownership, which was crucial for tribal identity, taxation, and defense. The Shephelah, where Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel were located, was a fertile region of rolling hills and valleys, strategically important due to its position as a buffer zone and a corridor for movement between the Philistine plain and the Judean highlands. Control over these cities was vital for Judah's security and prosperity, particularly in light of future conflicts.
Key Themes
Joshua 15:38, as part of this extensive inventory, powerfully illustrates several core themes. Firstly, it underscores the fulfillment of divine promise, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness in delivering on His covenant to give the land to Israel, down to the granular detail of specific cities within tribal territories. This meticulous record highlights God's precision and reliability, echoing His commitment throughout the Pentateuch. Secondly, it emphasizes order and divine sovereignty; the systematic and detailed division of the land reflects God's character as a God of order, establishing the foundational structure for the nation of Israel. The process was not chaotic but divinely orchestrated, ensuring justice and peace. Thirdly, the concept of inheritance and possession is central; the Israelites were not merely conquering but taking possession of a prepared inheritance, a gift from God. This physical inheritance foreshadows the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ, as described in Ephesians 1:11. Finally, these geographical lists are invaluable for biblical geography and historical accuracy, providing critical data for understanding the ancient landscape, the distribution of populations, and the strategic importance of various regions in the unfolding narrative of God's people.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This place name is of uncertain derivation, with its etymology not yielding a clear meaning. Its primary significance, therefore, lies not in its linguistic root but in its inclusion within this precise and exhaustive list of cities. As a named city, Dilean signifies a specific, identifiable location within Judah's inheritance, contributing to the comprehensive and legally binding nature of the territorial record. Its presence, alongside other known or identifiable sites, lends weight to the historical accuracy and thoroughness of the biblical account, affirming the reality of God's meticulous land distribution.
This common Hebrew place name literally translates to "watchtower" or "outlook." The recurrence of "Mizpeh" throughout Israel (e.g., in Benjamin, Judges 20:1, and Gilead, Judges 10:17) indicates a strategic elevated position offering a wide view, likely for defensive purposes or observation. The Mizpeh mentioned here in Judah's Shephelah is distinct from these others, highlighting the importance of such vantage points across the land and the detailed geographical knowledge embedded in the text. Its name suggests a site of strategic importance for the tribe of Judah.
This name is likely derived from roots meaning "veneration of God" or "subdued by God." This name appears again in 2 Kings 14:7, where King Amaziah of Judah renames Sela (Petra) to Joktheel after conquering it. While some scholars debate if the Joshua 15 Joktheel is the same city or a different one, in the context of Joshua, it refers to a city within Judah's original, divinely allotted inheritance. Its name, "veneration of God" or "subdued by God," could implicitly reflect the divine assistance in conquering and possessing the land, acknowledging God's hand in their victories and the establishment of their territory.
Verse Breakdown
"And Dilean,"
This opening phrase introduces the first of three named cities, utilizing the common Hebrew conjunctive "and" (וְ, ve). Its placement at the beginning of the enumeration emphasizes its status as a distinct, yet interconnected, part of Judah's Shephelah territory. The simple naming underscores the meticulous nature of the land allocation, where every settlement, regardless of its size or prominence, was accounted for in the divine plan, signifying God's thoroughness.
"and Mizpeh,"
The repetition of the conjunctive "and" here links Mizpeh directly to Dilean, continuing the list. Mizpeh, as a "watchtower" city, suggests a location of strategic importance, likely situated on an elevated point within the Shephelah. Its inclusion signifies the comprehensive nature of the inventory, covering not just agricultural lands but also defensive or observational outposts, ensuring the completeness of Judah's inheritance.
"and Joktheel,"
The final "and" further connects Joktheel to the preceding cities, completing this specific triad within the broader list of Shephelah cities. The name "Joktheel," potentially meaning "veneration of God" or "subdued by God," subtly reinforces the theological undercurrent of the entire land division: the land was given by God, and its possession was a result of His power and faithfulness. The cumulative effect of these simple conjunctions and names is a precise, legalistic documentation of Judah's divinely appointed inheritance, highlighting divine order and provision.
Literary Devices
Joshua 15:38, though brief and seemingly straightforward, effectively employs several literary devices to achieve its purpose of documenting the land inheritance. The most prominent is Enumeration, as the verse is a direct listing of three distinct place names. This technique is characteristic of the entire chapter and indeed much of the book of Joshua, serving to create a comprehensive and authoritative record of the land division. The meticulous nature of this enumeration lends a legal and administrative weight to the text, solidifying the claims of the tribe of Judah to their allotted territory. Furthermore, the repeated use of the conjunction "and" before each city name ("And Dilean, and Mizpeh, and Joktheel") is a clear example of Polysyndeton. This device, while simple, emphasizes each individual item in the list, giving equal weight and importance to Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel. It slows the reader down, reinforcing the thoroughness and precision of the divine allocation, ensuring that no part of the inheritance is overlooked or diminished. This detailed listing also contributes to the overall sense of Verisimilitude, lending an air of historical accuracy and authenticity to the biblical narrative by providing specific, verifiable geographical data.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Joshua 15:38, despite its seemingly dry enumeration of names, is deeply embedded in the larger theological narrative of God's faithfulness and covenant keeping. The meticulous detail of these geographical lists is a testament to God's precision and commitment in fulfilling His promises. Just as He promised Abraham a land for his descendants, so He meticulously ensures every city, every boundary, and every parcel is accounted for in the inheritance of Israel. This divine thoroughness speaks volumes about God's character: He is not vague or forgetful, but exact and faithful in His dealings with His people. The physical land inheritance serves as a tangible, concrete demonstration of God's sovereignty over creation and His active involvement in the history of His chosen people. It underscores that God's plans are not abstract ideals but concrete realities, meticulously brought to pass, establishing the foundation for their national identity and future.
Reflection and Application
The detailed listing of cities like Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel in Joshua 15:38 might initially appear tedious, yet it carries profound implications for our faith and daily lives. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of meticulous detail, a God who fulfills His promises with absolute precision. If God was so careful to ensure every city and boundary was accounted for in the physical inheritance of Israel, how much more can we trust Him with the intricate details of our lives and the certainty of our spiritual inheritance in Christ? This passage encourages us to cultivate a deep trust in God's faithfulness, recognizing that His plans for us are not haphazard but divinely ordered and meticulously executed. It also challenges us to see value in every part of Scripture, even the seemingly mundane, for each verse contributes to the grand narrative of God's redemptive work and reveals aspects of His character. Just as Israel possessed a tangible inheritance, believers today possess an eternal, spiritual inheritance in Christ, secured by God's unwavering faithfulness and meticulous provision.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why are these detailed lists of cities important in the Bible?
These detailed lists, like the one in Joshua 15:38, are critically important for several reasons. Theologically, they serve as tangible evidence of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that their descendants would inherit the land of Canaan, as first promised in Genesis 12:7. Historically and legally, they functioned as the ancient equivalent of property deeds or cadastral surveys, establishing clear boundaries and ownership for each tribe. This was vital for tribal identity, administration, taxation, and defense in ancient Israel. From a literary perspective, their inclusion underscores the meticulous and orderly nature of God's work, providing a sense of historical accuracy and grounding the biblical narrative in specific geographical realities, making the account more credible and verifiable.
What was the significance of the Shephelah region where these cities were located?
The Shephelah (meaning "lowlands" or "foothills") was a highly significant geographical region in ancient Israel, located between the Philistine coastal plain to the west and the Judean central highlands to the east. It was characterized by rolling hills, fertile valleys, and numerous wadis (dry riverbeds). Its strategic importance lay in its function as a natural buffer zone and a crucial corridor for movement between the coast and the interior. Control of the Shephelah was vital for both defense and trade, as many battles between Israel and the Philistines, for example, took place in this region. The cities listed in Joshua 15:33-47, including Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel, were key strongholds and settlements within this agriculturally rich and militarily strategic area, making their inclusion in Judah's inheritance particularly important for the tribe's security and prosperity.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Joshua 15:38 details a physical land inheritance, its deeper significance finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Testament. The meticulous division of the land among the tribes of Israel, a tangible expression of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises, foreshadows the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ. Just as Israel inherited a physical land, we, through faith in Jesus, inherit all the spiritual blessings in the heavenly realms, as beautifully articulated in Ephesians 1:3. Christ Himself is our ultimate inheritance; He is the promised "seed" to whom the promises were made, as Paul explains in Galatians 3:16. Through His atoning work, Jesus has secured for us not merely a plot of land, but an eternal dwelling in God's presence and participation in His divine nature, as described in 2 Peter 1:4. The precision with which God allocated land to Israel reflects the meticulousness of His redemptive plan, culminating in Christ, who perfectly fulfills every promise and provides access to an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). Thus, the seemingly mundane list of cities in Joshua 15:38 ultimately points to the glorious and secure spiritual possession we have in our Lord Jesus Christ, the true "gain of God" for all who believe.