Joshua 18:16

KJV

And the border came down to the end of the mountain that [lieth] before the valley of the son of Hinnom, [and] which [is] in the valley of the giants on the north, and descended to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of Jebusi on the south, and descended to Enrogel,

KJV (with Strong's)

And the border {H1366} came down {H3381} to the end {H7097} of the mountain {H2022} that lieth before {H6440} the valley {H1516} of the son {H1121} of Hinnom {H2011}, and which is in the valley {H6010} of the giants {H7497} on the north {H6828}, and descended {H3381} to the valley {H1516} of Hinnom {H2011}, to the side {H3802} of Jebusi {H2983} on the south {H5045}, and descended {H3381} to Enrogel {H5883},

Complete Jewish Bible

Then the border went down to the farthest part of the hill located in front of the Ben-Hinnom Valley, north of the Refa'im Valley, south of the Y'vusi; and continued down to 'Ein-Rogel,

Berean Standard Bible

Then it went down to the foot of the hill that faces the Valley of Hinnom at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim and ran down the Valley of Hinnom toward the southern slope of the Jebusites and downward to En-rogel.

American Standard Version

and the border went down to the uttermost part of the mountain that lieth before the valley of the son of Hinnom, which is in the vale of Rephaim northward; and it went down to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of the Jebusite southward, and went down to En-rogel;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 18:16 meticulously delineates a crucial segment of the southern boundary for the tribe of Benjamin, specifically tracing its course through significant geographical landmarks in the vicinity of what would later become Jerusalem. This verse is part of a larger, detailed account (Joshua 18:11-28) that describes the precise allocation of land to Benjamin, following the establishment of the Tabernacle at Shiloh. It underscores the profound fulfillment of God's covenant promises regarding the land of Canaan, emphasizing the divine order, meticulousness, and tangible reality in the distribution of the tribal inheritances.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 18:16 is situated within the broader narrative of the division of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes, specifically focusing on the second phase of land distribution (Joshua 18:1-19:51). After the initial campaigns and the setting up of the Tabernacle in Shiloh, Joshua commissions a survey of the remaining land to ensure a fair and divinely guided allocation for the seven tribes that had not yet received their inheritance. Chapters 18 and 19 detail these precise boundaries, with Benjamin's inheritance being the first described due to its strategic central location. This particular verse, Joshua 18:16, describes the southern border of Benjamin, which simultaneously forms part of the northern border of Judah, highlighting the intricate and often shared nature of these tribal lines. The meticulous geographical detail in this section reinforces the literal fulfillment of God's promises and the tangible reality of Israel's inheritance, demonstrating the divine precision in every aspect of their new life in the land.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The division of the land was a monumental undertaking, signifying the culmination of generations of divine promise, beginning with God's covenant with Abraham (e.g., [God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham")). In ancient Near Eastern cultures, land ownership was intrinsically linked to identity, security, and divine favor. The precise demarcation of tribal territories, often relying on natural landmarks like mountains, valleys, and water sources, was crucial for maintaining order, preventing disputes, and affirming tribal distinctiveness. The locations mentioned in Joshua 18:16—the Valley of Hinnom, the Valley of the Giants, Jebusi (Jerusalem), and Enrogel—were all strategically important areas near the future capital city. Their inclusion in Benjamin's border highlights the tribe's proximity to a vital region, even though Jebusi itself remained unconquered by the Israelites at this time, as noted in [Joshua 15:63](/joshua/15-63 "Joshua 15:63 - The Jebusites in Jerusalem"). This ongoing presence of the Jebusites in Jerusalem presented a significant challenge and a point of future conflict for the Israelites.

* **Key Themes:** This verse, along with the surrounding chapters, powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes **God's Faithfulness and Covenant Fulfillment**, demonstrating how the Lord meticulously delivers on His promises to grant Israel the land He swore to their ancestors, as seen in [Numbers 34:1-12](/numbers/34-1 "Numbers 34:1-12 - Detailed Instructions for Land Division"). Secondly, it highlights **Divine Order and Meticulousness**, as the land is not randomly assigned but carefully surveyed and divided according to specific, detailed boundaries. This reflects God's precise and intentional design for His people's inheritance and communal life, ensuring justice and preventing chaos. Thirdly, the verse contributes to the theme of **Tribal Identity and Inheritance**, as the land allocation solidifies each tribe's unique place within the Israelite confederation, providing them with a secure home and a basis for their future. This inheritance was a tangible expression of God's blessing and their identity as His chosen people. Finally, the mention of geographically significant locations, particularly Jebusi (Jerusalem), subtly introduces the theme of **Future Significance**, foreshadowing the pivotal role these places would play in Israel's history and salvation narrative, even as the details of their future importance (like the Valley of Hinnom's later notoriety as Gehenna) were yet to unfold.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Border (Hebrew, _gᵉbûwl_ H1366):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to twist" or "a cord," refers to a boundary or the territory enclosed by it. In Joshua 18:16, it signifies the precisely defined line of demarcation for the tribe of Benjamin's inheritance. The use of _gᵉbûwl_ emphasizes the concrete, tangible nature of the land division, indicating that these were not vague regions but clearly marked territories, reflecting God's orderly and exact fulfillment of His promises to Israel.
* **Valley (Hebrew, _gayʼ_ H1516):** This word denotes a gorge or a narrow depression, often characterized by its lofty sides. In this verse, it specifically refers to the "Valley of the Son of Hinnom" and the "Valley of the Giants." The term _gayʼ_ highlights the topographical features that served as natural boundaries, emphasizing the rugged and distinct landscape of the region. The Valley of Hinnom (Hinnôm H2011, likely a Jebusite name) would later become infamous for pagan child sacrifice and a symbol of divine judgment (Gehenna), adding a layer of poignant foreshadowing to its otherwise descriptive use here.
* **Jebusi (Hebrew, _Yᵉbûwçîy_ H2983):** This is the ancient name for the city that would later become Jerusalem, inhabited by the Jebusites. The term is a patrial, indicating an inhabitant of Jebus. Its mention here as a landmark for Benjamin's southern border is highly significant, as it places the tribe directly adjacent to a strategically vital city that remained unconquered by Israel at this time. This geographical reference underscores the ongoing challenge of fully possessing the land and foreshadows Jerusalem's immense future importance as the capital of the united monarchy and the spiritual center of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the border came down to the end of the mountain that [lieth] before the valley of the son of Hinnom,"**: This clause initiates the description of Benjamin's southern boundary, indicating its descent from a mountain ridge towards the northern edge of the Valley of Hinnom. This establishes the initial geographical reference point, signaling a transition from higher ground to a significant valley system. The phrase "lieth before" suggests a prominent position, directly facing or overlooking the valley.
* **"[and] which [is] in the valley of the giants on the north,"**: This clarifies the location of the aforementioned mountain or the border's trajectory, placing it within or adjacent to the Valley of the Giants (Rephaim Valley), specifically on its northern side. This valley, known for its fertility and strategic importance, further anchors the border within a recognizable and significant topographical feature, indicating that the border ran along the northern edge of this notable valley.
* **"and descended to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of Jebusi on the south,"**: The border continues its downward path, explicitly entering the Valley of Hinnom itself. The phrase "to the side of Jebusi on the south" precisely positions this segment of the border along the southern flank of the Jebusite city, indicating Benjamin's territory extended right up to the unconquered city's southern limits. This detail highlights the close proximity of Benjamin to this vital, yet still foreign-controlled, stronghold.
* **"and descended to Enrogel,"**: The final clause in this verse specifies the terminus of this particular segment of the border. The descent culminates at Enrogel, a crucial spring located southeast of Jerusalem, at the junction of the Kidron and Hinnom valleys. This vital water source provides a clear and identifiable landmark that marks the end of this portion of Benjamin's southern boundary, ensuring no ambiguity regarding the tribal land allocation.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Joshua 18:16 is **Topographical Description**, characterized by its precise and meticulous enumeration of geographical markers. The text systematically traces the border's path, utilizing specific landmarks such as "the mountain," "the valley of the son of Hinnom," "the valley of the giants," "Jebusi," and "Enrogel." This detailed mapping serves to establish the tangible reality of the land inheritance and the concrete fulfillment of God's promises. The repetition of the verb "descended" (Hebrew: יָרַד, _yarad_) emphasizes the downward trajectory of the border through the terrain, creating a sense of dynamic movement and continuity in the description. While not a direct literary device, the mention of locations like the Valley of Hinnom and Jebusi can be seen as a subtle form of **Foreshadowing**, as these places would acquire profound theological and historical significance far beyond their function as mere border markers in later biblical narratives. The overall effect is one of **Precision** and **Meticulousness**, underscoring the divine order and intentionality in the allocation of the promised land.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 18:16, though a seemingly dry geographical description, is deeply embedded in the theological framework of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. The meticulous delineation of boundaries underscores the divine order and precision in the fulfillment of God's word, demonstrating that the land promised to Abraham and his descendants was indeed being given to them with exactitude. This process of land allocation was not arbitrary but a tangible manifestation of God's care for His people, providing them with a secure inheritance and a place to establish their identity as a nation under His rule. The specific mention of places like the Valley of Hinnom and Jebusi, which would later gain immense historical and symbolic weight, highlights God's unfolding plan through specific times and places, revealing layers of meaning that would become apparent only in retrospect within the broader biblical narrative. This divine meticulousness in land distribution also serves as a testament to God's justice and His commitment to providing for His people's physical and communal well-being.

* [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham Regarding Land")
* [Numbers 34:1-12](/numbers/34-1 "Numbers 34:1-12 - Instructions for Dividing the Land")
* [Psalm 16:6](/psalms/16-6 "Psalm 16:6 - The Pleasant Lines of Inheritance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed geographical descriptions in Joshua, including Joshua 18:16, remind us that God's promises are not vague or abstract but are rooted in tangible reality. Just as God meticulously divided the land for each tribe, providing them with a secure and defined inheritance, He also has a precise and intentional plan for our lives. This verse encourages us to trust in God's faithfulness to fulfill His word, even when the details seem mundane or complex. It prompts us to consider the "boundaries" God has set for us—whether in our relationships, responsibilities, or spiritual walk—recognizing that these are not limitations but rather frameworks for security, identity, and flourishing. Living within God's divinely appointed boundaries, whether physical or spiritual, allows us to experience His provision and protection. Furthermore, the future significance of these geographical markers (like the Valley of Hinnom's later association with judgment or Jebusi's transformation into Jerusalem) serves as a powerful reminder that God's plan often unfolds in ways we cannot fully grasp in the present, with deeper meanings revealed over time. We are called to live faithfully within the inheritance and calling He has given us, trusting that His purposes are always unfolding for our good and His glory, leading us towards a destiny far grander than we can currently perceive.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of the land division in Joshua 18:16 speak to God's character and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises?**
* **In what ways can understanding the "boundaries" God sets in our lives (physical, spiritual, relational) provide a sense of security and identity, rather than limitation?**
* **How does the future significance of places like the Valley of Hinnom and Jebusi encourage us to look for God's deeper purposes in seemingly ordinary or difficult circumstances in our own lives?**

### FAQ
**Why is there so much detail about land boundaries in Joshua?**

Answer: The extensive detail regarding land boundaries in the book of Joshua, as seen in Joshua 18:16, is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates the **fulfillment of God's covenant promises** to Abraham and his descendants that they would inherit the land of Canaan (e.g., [God's covenant with Abraham in Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "God's Covenant with Abraham")). The meticulous descriptions prove that God is faithful to His word and delivers precisely what He promises. Secondly, it establishes **tribal identity and inheritance**, giving each tribe a defined territory, which was vital for their social, economic, and political stability. This prevented disputes over land and ensured each family had a place to call home, fostering a sense of belonging and security within the larger Israelite confederation. Thirdly, it underscores **divine order and justice**, as the land was apportioned by lot under God's guidance, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution among the tribes, reflecting His character of impartiality. Finally, these detailed descriptions serve as a **historical record** for future generations, affirming their rightful claim to the land and reminding them of God's powerful acts in their history, providing a tangible testament to His intervention on their behalf.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 18:16 describes a physical border in the Promised Land, it points forward to the ultimate spiritual inheritance found in Christ. The meticulous division of land, ensuring each tribe received its portion, foreshadows God's precise and perfect plan for humanity's salvation, culminating in the person and work of Jesus. The physical land of Canaan, with its boundaries, served as a temporary rest and inheritance for Israel, but Christ offers an eternal and spiritual inheritance, a "better country," a heavenly one, for all who believe (e.g., [Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - A Better Country")). The city of Jebusi, mentioned as a border marker, would later become Jerusalem, the very city where the [Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), would be crucified and resurrected, establishing the new covenant through His shed blood. Furthermore, the Valley of Hinnom, a mere geographical feature here, later became a symbol of judgment (Gehenna) in the New Testament. Christ, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, delivers believers from the eternal judgment symbolized by Gehenna, offering eternal life and a secure inheritance in the heavenly Jerusalem (e.g., [Revelation 21:2](/revelation/21-2 "Revelation 21:2 - The New Jerusalem Descends")). Thus, the earthly boundaries and inheritances of Joshua ultimately lead us to Christ, in whom all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen" (e.g., [2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")), providing a spiritual inheritance far surpassing any earthly possession.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Kings 23:10

And he defiled Topheth, which [is] in the valley of the children of Hinnom, that no man might make his son or his daughter to pass through the fire to Molech.

Joshua 15:7

And the border went up toward Debir from the valley of Achor, and so northward, looking toward Gilgal, that [is] before the going up to Adummim, which [is] on the south side of the river: and the border passed toward the waters of Enshemesh, and the goings out thereof were at Enrogel:

Joshua 15:8

And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same [is] Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that [lieth] before the valley of Hinnom westward, which [is] at the end of the valley of the giants northward:

Isaiah 30:33

For Tophet [is] ordained of old; yea, for the king it is prepared; he hath made [it] deep [and] large: the pile thereof [is] fire and much wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it.

2 Samuel 17:17

Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by Enrogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and told king David.

Joshua 18:28

And Zelah, Eleph, and Jebusi, which [is] Jerusalem, Gibeath, [and] Kirjath; fourteen cities with their villages. This [is] the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families.

2 Chronicles 33:6

And he caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he observed times, and used enchantments, and used witchcraft, and dealt with a familiar spirit, and with wizards: he wrought much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.