TRV
Translation
King James Version
And Humtah, and Kirjatharba, which is Hebron, and Zior; nine cities with their villages:
Complete Jewish Bible
Humtah, Kiryat-Arba (that is, Hevron) and Tzi'or - nine cities, together with their villages.
Berean Standard Bible
Humtah, Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), and Zior—nine cities, along with their villages.
American Standard Version
and Humtah, and Kiriath-arba (the same is Hebron), and Zior; nine cities with their villages.
World English Bible Messianic
Humtah, Kiriath Arba (the same is Hebron), and Zior; nine cities with their villages.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And Humtah, and Kiriath-arba, (which is Hebron) and Zior: nine cities with their villages.
Young's Literal Translation
and Humtah, and Kirjath-Arba (it is Hebron), and Zior; nine cities and their villages.
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In the KJVVerse 6,257 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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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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SUMMARY
Joshua 15:54 is a concise yet profoundly significant verse, meticulously embedded within the detailed record of Judah's tribal inheritance in the Promised Land. It specifically names three cities—Humtah, Kirjatharba (explicitly identified as Hebron), and Zior—culminating a subsection of the hill country cities with the summary statement, "nine cities with their villages." This precise enumeration serves as a tangible and irrefutable testament to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Israel, demonstrating divine order and the secure establishment of His people in their designated heritage.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Joshua 15 provides an exhaustive and meticulous account of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah, the largest and most prominent of the Israelite tribes. The chapter systematically delineates Judah's boundaries—southern, eastern, northern, and western—before proceeding to a comprehensive list of cities organized by geographical regions: the Negeb, the Shephelah, the hill country, and the wilderness. Verse 54 is situated within the enumeration of cities belonging to the "hill country" (specifically Joshua 15:48-60), serving as the concluding statement for a cluster of nine cities that includes Humtah, Kirjatharba (Hebron), and Zior. This detailed cataloging is a hallmark of the book of Joshua, which consistently emphasizes the precise and verifiable fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land inheritance, underscoring the legal and historical reality of Israel's possession.
Historical & Cultural Context: The distribution of land to the Israelite tribes was a foundational and pivotal act following the conquest of Canaan, essential for establishing their identity, governance, and future as a divinely ordained nation. This process was not arbitrary but meticulously executed according to divine instruction (as outlined in Numbers 26:52-56) and rooted in the ancient, unconditional promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob concerning their countless descendants inhabiting the land (e.g., Genesis 12:7). The specific naming of cities, particularly the explicit identification of Kirjatharba as Hebron, directly connects this new era of Israelite settlement to their patriarchal past. Hebron was an exceptionally ancient and strategically vital city, formerly a formidable stronghold of the Anakim (giants whom Caleb, a prominent figure in Judah, dispossessed, as detailed in Joshua 14:12-15). Furthermore, it was a sacred burial site for the patriarchs and matriarchs—Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, Leah, and Jacob—as recorded in Genesis 23:19).
Key Themes: The meticulous listing in Joshua 15:54, and indeed throughout the entire chapter, powerfully underscores several key theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it highlights Divine Faithfulness in fulfilling the covenant promises, demonstrating unequivocally that God's word is reliable, trustworthy, and brought to tangible fruition. The land, promised centuries earlier, is now verifiably possessed. Secondly, it emphasizes Order and Precision in God's dealings; the detailed enumeration reflects a divine blueprint, ensuring each tribe received its designated portion without confusion or dispute. This meticulousness speaks to God's sovereign control over every minute detail of His redemptive plan. Thirdly, the explicit mention of Hebron's Enduring Significance ties the present inheritance directly to Israel's sacred patriarchal past, affirming the profound continuity of God's work from the patriarchs through the conquest and settlement. Hebron's future roles as a city of refuge (as seen in Joshua 20:7) and David's first capital (recorded in 2 Samuel 5:5) further solidify its lasting importance. Finally, the entire chapter reinforces the theme of Tribal Identity and Inheritance, illustrating how the land was integral to the distinct identity, security, and prosperity of each tribe, establishing their physical and spiritual heritage within the Promised Land.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Joshua 15:54, and indeed throughout much of Joshua 15, is Cataloging or Listing. This meticulous enumeration of cities and boundaries serves a crucial purpose: it provides a detailed, legalistic, and irrefutable record of the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to Israel. It acts as a divine deed, demonstrating the tangible reality and comprehensive extent of the inheritance. The specific phrase "which [is] Hebron" is an excellent example of Identification or Clarification, ensuring the audience understands the contemporary, Israelite name of an ancient, pre-Israelite site, thereby bridging historical nomenclature with current usage and reinforcing Hebron's enduring significance. Furthermore, the recurring phrase "with their villages" (also seen in Joshua 15:32, 36, 41, 44, 45, 47, 57, 59, 62) is a powerful form of Formulaic Language or Repetition. This repetition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the land assignment, indicating that not only the main cities but also their surrounding dependent communities were fully included in the tribal inheritance, leaving no ambiguity about the extent of God's fulfilled promise.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 15:54, though seemingly a dry list of names, is profoundly theological, serving as a powerful testament to God's absolute faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the Abrahamic covenant concerning the land. The meticulous detail of the land distribution underscores God's sovereignty and His precise execution of His divine plan, demonstrating that His word is not vague or arbitrary but meticulously fulfilled down to every city and village. This tangible inheritance was not merely a geographical allocation but the very foundation of Israel's identity as God's chosen people, providing security, sustenance, and a divinely appointed place for the establishment of His worship and the administration of His law. The inclusion of Hebron, a city steeped in patriarchal history and future significance, further emphasizes the continuity of God's redemptive plan across generations, linking the ancient promises to their present, tangible fulfillment.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous record of land distribution in Joshua 15:54 offers profound and enduring lessons for contemporary believers. Just as God precisely and comprehensively fulfilled His ancient promises to Israel concerning their physical inheritance, we can trust in His unwavering faithfulness to fulfill His promises to us, particularly our spiritual inheritance in Christ. This verse reminds us that God's plans are not vague, chaotic, or subject to chance, but are characterized by divine order, precision, and sovereign control. This assurance empowers us to believe that every aspect of our lives, even the seemingly small or overlooked details, is known to Him and part of His overarching, perfect design. Reflecting on the significance of places like Hebron, which bridges ancient history with immense future importance, encourages us to appreciate the rich tapestry of God's work throughout salvation history and to understand our own place within His unfolding redemptive narrative. Our spiritual heritage is deeply rooted in God's steadfast character, providing a secure and unshakeable foundation for our faith, hope, and future.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of "Kirjatharba, which is Hebron"?
Answer: This phrase is a crucial clarification, identifying the ancient, pre-Israelite name "Kirjatharba" (meaning "City of Arba," referring to an Anakite giant) with its more familiar and enduring Israelite name "Hebron." Hebron holds immense significance in biblical history. It was where Abraham purchased the Cave of Machpelah as a burial site for Sarah and himself, becoming the resting place for the patriarchs and matriarchs (see Genesis 23:19). It was also one of the cities of refuge (see Joshua 21:13) and later served as David's first capital before Jerusalem (see 2 Samuel 5:5). Its inclusion in Judah's inheritance underscores its strategic, historical, and spiritual importance, powerfully connecting the present fulfillment of the land promise to the foundational narratives of Israel's covenant history.
Why does the Bible list cities and boundaries in such detail?
Answer: The detailed listing of cities and boundaries throughout Joshua 15 and other chapters serves several critical purposes. Firstly, it functions as a legal and historical document, providing tangible, irrefutable proof of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel concerning the land. It verifies that the inheritance was indeed given as promised, leaving no room for doubt. Secondly, it established clear tribal identities and territorial rights, preventing disputes and ensuring order and stability among the tribes. This meticulousness reflects God's character of order, precision, and justice. Thirdly, it underscores the comprehensive nature of the conquest and possession—not just general regions, but specific cities and their dependent "villages" were claimed, demonstrating complete dominion over the land God had given them. This level of detail reinforces the divine authority behind the distribution, as outlined in passages like Numbers 34.
Are Humtah and Zior significant elsewhere in the Bible?
Answer: Humtah and Zior are relatively obscure cities, mentioned primarily in this detailed land allocation list within Joshua 15. Unlike Hebron, they do not feature prominently in other major biblical narratives or historical accounts. Their inclusion, however, is significant not for their individual historical prominence but for reinforcing the overall theme of the chapter: the exhaustive and precise fulfillment of God's promise to provide every designated portion of the land to the tribe of Judah. They serve as further evidence of the meticulous nature of the divine survey and the comprehensive extent of Judah's inheritance, demonstrating that God's promises are fulfilled in their entirety, down to the seemingly smallest detail.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 15:54, with its meticulous record of a physical inheritance, powerfully foreshadows the far greater and eternal spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ. Just as God precisely fulfilled His ancient promise of land to Israel, He has, with even greater precision and unwavering faithfulness, brought about His ultimate redemptive plan through His Son, Jesus. The secure possession of land by Judah points to the unshakable security of our salvation and eternal inheritance in Christ, which is "imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (see 1 Peter 1:4). The identification of Kirjatharba as Hebron, a city of covenant, kingship, and refuge, subtly points to Jesus Christ as the true King of Kings and the mediator of a new and better covenant (see Hebrews 9:15). Our inheritance is no longer a geographical plot of land but rather the immeasurable riches of God's grace and the fullness of life found in union with Christ (see Ephesians 1:11 and Colossians 1:12). Through faith in Him, we become "heirs according to the promise" (see Galatians 3:29), inheriting not just a place, but a relationship with God Himself, secured by the ultimate sacrifice of the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!.