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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 15:39 is a concise enumeration of three cities—Lachish, Bozkath, and Eglon—within the extensive and meticulously detailed tribal inheritance allocated to Judah in the Promised Land. This verse, part of a lengthy geographical survey, underscores the precise fulfillment of God's ancient covenant promises to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan, demonstrating His faithfulness in providing a tangible inheritance for His people and establishing the foundational framework for the nascent nation of Israel.
Context
Literary Context
Joshua 15 details the tribal allotment for Judah, the largest and most prominent of the Israelite tribes. The chapter begins by outlining Judah's extensive boundaries, stretching from the Dead Sea in the east to the Mediterranean in the west, and southward into the Negev. Following this boundary description, the bulk of the chapter (verses 21-62) provides an exhaustive list of cities grouped by geographical regions within Judah's territory. Joshua 15:39 falls within a cluster of cities located in the Shephelah, the low hills and plains situated between the coastal plain and the central highlands of Judah. This meticulous cataloging serves to document the fulfillment of God's promise and the orderly establishment of Israel's presence in the land, emphasizing the divine precision in the distribution of the inheritance.
Historical & Cultural Context
The period of Joshua marks a pivotal transition for Israel from nomadic wanderers to a settled nation. After forty years in the wilderness, the conquest of Canaan was underway, and the division of the land was the crucial next step in establishing their national identity and securing their future. Land ownership was the primary basis of wealth, social status, and tribal identity in ancient Near Eastern societies. The detailed listing of cities, often including their surrounding villages, reflects the administrative practices of the time, akin to a legal deed or land registry. The specific cities mentioned, like Lachish, were often fortified strongholds, reflecting the ongoing need for defense and the strategic importance of these locations in controlling trade routes and agricultural lands in the fertile Shephelah region.
Key Themes
Joshua 15:39, as part of this comprehensive land distribution, contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Joshua and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully testifies to Divine Faithfulness and Fulfillment, showcasing God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land of Canaan, as seen in God's promise to Abraham and the Abrahamic Covenant. The tangible possession of specific cities demonstrates the reality of this promise. Secondly, the meticulous detail highlights Order and Administration, emphasizing that the settlement of Israel was not chaotic but a divinely guided and meticulously organized process under Joshua's leadership, ensuring each tribe received its rightful and clearly defined inheritance. Finally, the geographical specificity underscores the Strategic Importance of the Land, as these cities were vital for defense, trade, and agriculture, reflecting God's provision for the physical well-being and security of His people within their promised inheritance.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From an unused root of uncertain meaning, Lachish was a major fortified city in the Shephelah, southwest of Jerusalem. It was strategically vital, controlling access routes between the coastal plain and the Judean highlands. Lachish is mentioned frequently in biblical and extra-biblical texts, notably in the Assyrian annals of Sennacherib and in the Lachish Letters, underscoring its significant role in ancient Israelite history, particularly during periods of conflict and siege. Its inclusion here signifies the possession of a key strategic point within Judah's inheritance.
Derived from a root meaning "to swell," suggesting a "swell of ground," Bozkath was a place in Palestine, likely a town or village in the Shephelah region near Lachish. While less prominent in biblical history than Lachish, its inclusion underscores the comprehensive nature of the land distribution, encompassing not only major centers but also smaller settlements within the designated tribal territory.
Meaning "vituline" or "calf-like," Eglon was the name of a place in Palestine and also of a Moabitish king. As a city, Eglon was located in the Shephelah, often associated geographically with Lachish. It is notably mentioned in the context of the Amorite kings who fought against Gibeon and were defeated by Joshua. Its listing here confirms its eventual capture and integration into the tribal territory of Judah, further demonstrating the complete fulfillment of the conquest and distribution.
Verse Breakdown
"Lachish"
This city was one of the most significant fortifications in the Shephelah, serving as a crucial administrative and military center. Its inclusion in Judah's inheritance signifies the tribe's control over a vital strategic point, essential for both defense and economic activity in the region. The possession of Lachish was a major step in securing Judah's western frontier.
"and Bozkath"
Bozkath was another town in the Shephelah, less prominent in biblical history than Lachish, but still part of the same cluster of cities allocated to Judah. Its exact location is debated, but it is generally placed near Lachish. The inclusion of such towns, even if not major centers, emphasizes the comprehensive and granular nature of the land distribution, down to every settlement within the designated territory.
"and Eglon"
Eglon, like Bozkath, was a city in the Shephelah, often associated geographically with Lachish. It is mentioned in the context of the Amorite kings who fought against Gibeon and were defeated by Joshua. Its listing here confirms its eventual capture and integration into the tribal territory of Judah, further demonstrating the complete fulfillment of the conquest and distribution.
Literary Devices
Joshua 15:39, as part of a lengthy chapter-long inventory, primarily employs the literary device of Catalog or List. This technique is used to convey a sense of completeness, order, and meticulous detail, emphasizing the thoroughness of the land distribution. The sheer volume of names, including less prominent ones like Bozkath and Eglon alongside major cities like Lachish, lends Verisimilitude to the narrative, making the account feel historically grounded and authentic. The repetitive use of the conjunction "and" (Polysyndeton) between each city name creates a rhythmic, almost exhaustive, cadence that underscores the comprehensive nature of the inheritance and the divine precision involved in its allocation. This detailed listing serves not merely as a geographical record but as a powerful literary affirmation of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises down to the very last detail.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Joshua 15:39, though a seemingly mundane list of names, is profoundly significant in its theological implications. It stands as a tangible testament to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises. After centuries of waiting, the descendants of Abraham were finally possessing the land God had sworn to give them, down to the specific cities and villages. This meticulous detail underscores that God's promises are not vague generalities but precise, divinely executed realities. Furthermore, the orderly distribution of these territories, even amidst conquest, reflects God's character as a God of order and intention, establishing a structured foundation for His people. This inheritance was a gift, a demonstration of divine provision, and a secure place for Israel to dwell and flourish under God's covenant.
Reflection and Application
The detailed enumeration of cities in Joshua 15:39 invites us to reflect on the nature of God's faithfulness in our own lives. Just as God meticulously fulfilled His promise to Israel by dividing the land, down to each city and village, so too does He work out the intricate details of His plans for us. His promises are not vague but are precisely and perfectly executed, even when we cannot see the full scope. This reminds us that God is attentive to the specifics of our lives and His grand redemptive plan, ensuring that every promise He makes will come to pass. Furthermore, the concept of inheritance, so central to this chapter, prompts us to consider our spiritual inheritance in Christ—a gift of eternal life, peace, and the Holy Spirit, which calls for gratitude and responsible stewardship. The order and precision in land distribution also highlight God's character as a God of order, not confusion, teaching us that divine blessing often flows through diligent effort and structured living, even amidst life's challenges.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is such a detailed list of cities included in the Bible?
The detailed list of cities in Joshua 15, including Lachish, Bozkath, and Eglon, serves multiple crucial purposes. First, it provides a legal and historical record of the land distribution, confirming the fulfillment of God's ancient covenant promises to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan. This meticulous inventory underscores God's faithfulness and the tangible reality of the inheritance. Second, it established the clear boundaries and identities of the twelve tribes, preventing future disputes and laying the administrative foundation for the nation of Israel. Third, it demonstrates the thoroughness of the conquest and the divine orderliness of the settlement process. Finally, for the original audience, it would have been a vital document for understanding their tribal heritage, land rights, and the extent of their national territory.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While Joshua 15:39 is a geographical listing, it finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment through the overarching themes it represents. The secure possession of the Promised Land by Judah, symbolized by cities like Lachish, foreshadows the ultimate spiritual inheritance and secure rest that believers receive in Christ. Just as the land was a gift from God, so too is salvation and eternal life a gracious gift received through faith in Jesus, the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. The meticulous fulfillment of God's promise to provide a physical dwelling place for Israel points to the greater promise of a spiritual dwelling place and eternal communion with God through Christ, who is our true Sabbath rest. The establishment of the earthly kingdom of Israel, with its defined territories and ordered administration, serves as a type for the spiritual kingdom of God, which is inaugurated by Christ and will find its ultimate consummation in the new heavens and new earth, where God's people will dwell securely with Him forever. Thus, this seemingly mundane verse ultimately points to God's faithfulness in providing an eternal, secure, and ordered inheritance for all who are in Christ.