What number verse is Joshua 15:48 in the Bible?

Joshua 15:48 is the 6,251st verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Joshua 15:48 sits at position 6,251.

Translation

King James Version

And in the mountains, Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh,

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KJV (with Strong's)

And in the mountains ^H2022, Shamir ^H8069, and Jattir ^H3492, and Socoh ^H7755,

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Complete Jewish Bible

In the hills: Shamir, Yatir, Sokhoh,

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Berean Standard Bible

These were in the hill country:

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American Standard Version

And in the hill-country, Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh,

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World English Bible Messianic

In the hill country, Shamir, Jattir, Socoh,

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Geneva Bible (1599)

And in the mountaines were Shamir, and Iattir, and Socoh,

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Young's Literal Translation

And in the hill-country: Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh,

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Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Joshua 15:48, a seemingly simple geographical reference, meticulously lists three towns—Shamir, Jattir, and Socoh—located within the rugged central hill country of Judah's tribal inheritance. This verse is an integral part of an extensive and detailed catalog that documents the precise boundaries and allocated settlements for the tribe of Judah, underscoring God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient promises and establishing His people in the land of Canaan with divine order and precision.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Joshua 15 provides a comprehensive and highly detailed account of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah, which was the largest and most influential of the Israelite tribes. Following the general instructions for land division in Joshua 13, this chapter serves as a meticulous "title deed" for Judah's inheritance in Canaan. The chapter systematically lists cities and regions, organizing them into distinct geographical sections: the Negeb (southern desert), the Shephelah (western lowlands), and the hill country or "mountains" (הָהָר - ha-har) of Judah. Verse 48 specifically falls within the enumeration of towns situated in this central highland region, emphasizing the thoroughness, precision, and divine authority behind the land distribution process orchestrated by God and executed by Joshua. These lists are not merely geographical notes but serve as a legal and theological testament to God's covenant faithfulness.
Historical & Cultural Context: The division of land in Joshua reflects ancient Near Eastern practices of territorial allocation, often involving detailed surveys and boundary markers. The "mountains" (הָהָר - ha-har) refer to the rugged central highlands of Judah, a distinct geographical feature characterized by steep slopes, valleys, and limited arable land, yet strategically vital for defense and settlement. Towns like Shamir, Jattir, and Socoh were likely agricultural settlements or small fortified outposts. Socoh, in particular, is a historically significant site, prominently mentioned later in the biblical narrative as a strategic location near the Valley of Elah, where David famously confronted Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1). The meticulous naming of these places underscores the tangible reality of Israel's possession of the land, a critical aspect of their identity and covenant relationship with Yahweh.
Key Themes: The detailed enumeration of towns like Shamir, Jattir, and Socoh in Joshua 15:48 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully demonstrates the Fulfillment of Promise, as God meticulously delivers on His ancient covenant pledge to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan (e.g., Genesis 12:7). Every specific location mentioned signifies the tangible realization of God's word. Secondly, the meticulous nature of these lists, found throughout Joshua chapters 13-19, highlights Divine Order and Precision in God's administration of His plan; no detail is too small in the divine economy. Lastly, the land was central to Israel's Inheritance and Identity, establishing their unique place and purpose as God's covenant people in the promised land.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

mountains (Hebrew, har', H2022): This term literally means "a mountain or range of hills," referring specifically to the central highlands of Judah. This region was the heartland of the tribe of Judah, characterized by its elevated, rugged terrain. Geographically, it provided natural defenses and was distinct from the coastal plain (Shephelah) and the desert (Negeb). The inclusion of "in the mountains" immediately situates these towns within a specific, vital, and often challenging, part of Judah's inheritance, emphasizing the diverse topography within their allotted territory.
Jattir (Hebrew, Yattîyr', H3492): Identified as a place in Palestine, Jattir is significant because it is later enumerated among the cities given to the priests, the sons of Aaron, from the tribe of Judah (Joshua 21:14). This indicates its importance not only as a settlement but also as a designated Levitical city, underscoring the structured and sacred nature of the land distribution.
Socoh (Hebrew, Sôwkôh', H7755): One of the more identifiable towns in this list, Socoh (also spelled Soco or Sokho) was a significant ancient site in the Shephelah, though sometimes associated with the hill country's edge. Its strategic location made it important for controlling access to the Valley of Elah, as evidenced by its mention in the famous account of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1). Its inclusion here confirms its established presence and importance even at the time of the land distribution, highlighting the historical continuity and geographical accuracy of the biblical record.

Verse Breakdown

"And in the mountains": This opening phrase immediately provides the geographical context for the following towns. It specifies that these settlements are located within the highland region of Judah, distinguishing them from towns in the lowlands or the Negeb. This precision reinforces the meticulous nature of the land division and the thoroughness with which the inheritance was documented for each tribe. It also underscores the varied terrain that comprised Judah's extensive territory.
"Shamir, and Jattir, and Socoh": These are three distinct towns or settlements explicitly named as part of Judah's inheritance within the mountainous region. Shamir is less frequently mentioned in other biblical texts, but Jattir is identified as a priestly city (Joshua 21:14), and Socoh, as noted, holds historical significance. The naming of specific places, even seemingly minor ones, serves to concretize the abstract concept of "inheritance" and demonstrates God's detailed faithfulness in fulfilling His promises down to the level of individual towns.

Literary Devices

Joshua 15:48, like much of the chapter, primarily employs the literary device of Catalog or List. This technique is not merely a dry enumeration but serves several crucial functions. Firstly, it acts as a legal and administrative document, meticulously recording the precise boundaries and settlements allocated to the tribe of Judah, thereby solidifying their claim to the land. This Geographical Precision underscores the tangible reality of God's covenant faithfulness, demonstrating that His promises are not vague but are fulfilled with exactitude. Furthermore, the Repetition of place names throughout the chapter, of which verse 48 is a part, reinforces the comprehensive nature of the land distribution and the divine order underlying the entire process. This meticulous listing transforms what might seem like mundane details into a powerful testament to God's detailed provision and the fulfillment of His word.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Joshua 15:48, though a mere list of names, is profoundly theological. It stands as a testament to God's meticulous faithfulness and the tangible fulfillment of His ancient promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land of Canaan. The very act of naming each town, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, underscores that God's covenant promises are not abstract ideals but concrete realities, delivered with divine precision. This verse, therefore, invites us to marvel at the God who orchestrates history and fulfills His word down to the smallest detail, ensuring His people receive their promised inheritance. It speaks to a God who is orderly, sovereign, and utterly dependable in His dealings with humanity.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

The meticulous listing of towns in Joshua 15:48, while initially appearing dry, offers profound spiritual lessons for contemporary believers. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's faithfulness extends to the minutest details of His promises. Just as He precisely fulfilled His word to Israel concerning every town and boundary, we can trust that He is equally faithful in fulfilling His promises to us, even in the seemingly insignificant aspects of our lives. This verse encourages us to cultivate a deep confidence in God's sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His covenant. It challenges us to recognize that every part of His plan, no matter how small, has significance in His grand design, and that our spiritual inheritance in Christ is as real and certain as Judah's physical inheritance in Canaan. We are called to live in the full assurance of His provision and to actively possess the spiritual blessings He has given us.

Questions for Reflection

How does God's meticulous attention to detail in the land distribution challenge or affirm your understanding of His character and faithfulness in your own life?
In what areas of your life are you struggling to trust God with the "small details," and how might the example of Joshua 15:48 encourage you?
Considering that even seemingly minor towns were important enough to be listed, how does this perspective influence your view of your own significance and role within God's larger kingdom plan?

FAQ

Why are these lists of names so important in the Bible, beyond just being geographical records?

Answer: These lists are critically important because they serve multiple theological and historical purposes. Firstly, they are tangible evidence of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient promises to Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan (e.g., Genesis 15:18-21). Each named town represents a concrete piece of that promise realized. Secondly, they function as legal and administrative documents, establishing the tribal boundaries and confirming the Israelites' legitimate ownership of the land. This was vital for their identity as a nation and their covenant relationship with God. Lastly, they underscore God's divine order and precision; even in the vastness of His plan, every detail, every town, every family, is accounted for and has its place within His sovereign design (Deuteronomy 32:8).

Are these places mentioned in Joshua 15:48 still identifiable today?

Answer: Yes, many of the places mentioned in Joshua 15, including some like Socoh, are identifiable with modern archaeological sites in Israel. While the exact locations of Shamir and Jattir might be debated among scholars, Socoh (Khirbet Abbad or Khirbet Shuwaikeh) is well-attested and its strategic importance, particularly in relation to the Valley of Elah, is widely recognized. The ability to identify these ancient sites lends historical credibility to the biblical narrative, demonstrating that these are not mythical places but real locations that played a part in Israel's history and God's unfolding plan.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Joshua 15:48 describes a physical inheritance in a specific land, its deeper theological resonance points toward the ultimate spiritual inheritance found in Jesus Christ. Just as God meticulously fulfilled His promise of land to Israel, He has, with even greater precision and faithfulness, fulfilled all His promises to humanity through His Son. Christ is the "true Joshua" who leads His people not into a temporal land, but into an eternal rest and a spiritual inheritance that far surpasses any earthly territory (Hebrews 4:8-11). In Him, believers receive "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3), becoming "heirs according to the promise" (Galatians 3:29). The detailed mapping of Judah's territory foreshadows the comprehensive and secure nature of the New Covenant, where our citizenship is in heaven, and our inheritance is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us (1 Peter 1:4). Ultimately, the meticulous provision of land in Joshua points to the perfect, complete, and eternal provision of salvation and new creation found in Christ, our promised dwelling place (Revelation 21:1-4).

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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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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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