Joshua 18:4

KJV

Give out from among you three men for [each] tribe: and I will send them, and they shall rise, and go through the land, and describe it according to the inheritance of them; and they shall come [again] to me.

KJV (with Strong's)

Give out {H3051} from among you three {H7969} men {H582} for each tribe {H7626}: and I will send {H7971} them, and they shall rise {H6965}, and go {H1980} through the land {H776}, and describe {H3789} it according {H6310} to the inheritance {H5159} of them; and they shall come {H935} again to me.

Complete Jewish Bible

Appoint three men for each tribe; I will commission them; and they are to set out, go through the land and describe it according to their inheritance; then they are to come back to me.

Berean Standard Bible

Appoint three men from each tribe, and I will send them out to survey the land and map it out, according to the inheritance of each. Then they will return to me

American Standard Version

Appoint for you three men of each tribe: and I will send them, and they shall arise, and walk through the land, and describe it according to their inheritance; and they shall come unto me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 18:4 records Joshua's decisive command to the seven remaining Israelite tribes who had not yet received their territorial inheritance in Canaan. This instruction mandates the selection of three men from each tribe to systematically survey and meticulously describe the unallotted land. The purpose was to create a precise written record that would serve as the basis for the equitable distribution of the Promised Land, ensuring that God's covenant promises regarding Israel's full possession were realized through diligent human action.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a pivotal moment in the book of Joshua, following the major military campaigns ([Joshua 1-12](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1-12 - Conquest of Canaan")) and the initial distribution of land to Judah, Ephraim, and Manasseh ([Joshua 13-17](/joshua/13-17 "Joshua 13-17 - Initial Land Allotments")). The tabernacle had recently been relocated to Shiloh ([Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - Tabernacle at Shiloh")), establishing a central place of worship and national identity. However, a significant portion of the land remained undistributed, and the remaining seven tribes were exhibiting a degree of complacency or apathy ([Joshua 18:3](/joshua/18-3 "Joshua 18:3 - Joshua's Rebuke of the Tribes")). Joshua's command in [Joshua 18:4](/joshua/18-4 "Joshua's Command to Survey the Land") serves as a direct response to this stagnation, initiating the practical steps required to complete the division of the land. It sets the stage for the detailed geographical descriptions and tribal allotments that follow in [Joshua 18:5-19:51](/joshua/18-5-19-51 "Joshua 18:5-19:51 - Further Land Allotments").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The division of the land was not merely a logistical exercise but a foundational act for the nascent nation of Israel. Land ownership was intrinsically linked to identity, security, and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. In ancient Near Eastern societies, precise land boundaries were crucial to prevent disputes and maintain social order. The concept of "inheritance" (Hebrew: _nachalah_) was deeply significant, representing a permanent, divinely-granted possession passed down through generations. Joshua, as Moses' successor, was responsible for ensuring the complete and orderly settlement of the tribes, thereby solidifying their place in the land God had given them, distinguishing them from nomadic peoples and establishing their national identity. This act cemented their transition from a wandering people to a settled nation.
* **Key Themes:** [Joshua 18:4](/joshua/18-4 "Joshua 18:4 - Joshua's Command to Survey the Land") powerfully underscores several key themes woven throughout the book and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Divine Provision and Human Responsibility**. While God had promised the land (e.g., [Deuteronomy 1:8](/deuteronomy/1-8 "Deuteronomy 1:8 - The Promise of the Land")), the Israelites were required to actively "go through the land, and describe it" – demonstrating that divine promise often necessitates human diligence and obedience for its full realization. Secondly, it emphasizes **Order and Organization**, showcasing Joshua's leadership in implementing a systematic approach to land distribution, vital for establishing a stable society and preventing future conflicts. This methodical process contrasts with any potential for chaotic or arbitrary division. Thirdly, the verse reinforces the **Significance of Inheritance**, not just as territory, but as a tangible manifestation of God's faithfulness to His covenant people, securing their future and identity as a nation dwelling in the land promised to their forefathers.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **go through (Hebrew, _hâlak'_):** This common Hebrew verb (H1980) means "to walk," "to go," or "to proceed." In this context, it implies an active, thorough, and purposeful exploration of the land. It was not enough to merely observe from a distance; the men were required to physically traverse the territory, gaining firsthand knowledge of its terrain, resources, and features. This active engagement highlights the human responsibility in claiming God's promises, moving beyond passive expectation to diligent action.
* **describe it (Hebrew, _kâthab'_):** This Hebrew verb (H3789) means "to grave," "to write," "to inscribe," or "to register." It implies much more than a casual observation or verbal report. The command to "describe it" required a formal, detailed, and written survey of the land, likely including geographical features, boundaries, and perhaps even resource assessments. This written record would serve as the authoritative document for the subsequent division by lot, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and the prevention of future disputes over tribal boundaries. It underscores the meticulous nature of the task.
* **inheritance (Hebrew, _nachălâh'_):** This noun (H5159) refers to an "inheritance," "possession," or "heritage," often specifically a landed inheritance. In the context of Israel, _nachălâh_ is a profound theological term, signifying the land that God Himself bequeathed to His people as a perpetual possession, a fulfillment of His covenant promises to Abraham. The men were to describe the land "according to the inheritance of them," meaning the survey was to be conducted with the understanding that this land was already divinely designated for Israel, and their task was to delineate its portions for each tribe's specific, God-given share.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Give out from among you three men for [each] tribe:"** Joshua, exercising his divinely appointed authority, commands the remaining seven tribes to select representatives. The number "three men" suggests a small, manageable, and perhaps legally significant delegation, ensuring a level of consensus and accountability from each tribal unit. This emphasizes the communal responsibility in the land's distribution, involving the tribes directly in the process.
* **"and I will send them, and they shall rise, and go through the land,"** Joshua asserts his leadership by declaring his intention to dispatch these men. The phrase "they shall rise" (Hebrew: _qum_) implies an immediate and decisive action, moving from a state of complacency (as noted in [Joshua 18:3](/joshua/18-3 "Joshua 18:3 - Joshua's Rebuke of the Tribes")) to active engagement. Their mission is to physically "go through" or traverse the entire unallotted territory, indicating a comprehensive and diligent survey, leaving no stone unturned.
* **"and describe it according to the inheritance of them;"** This is the core task. The men are to create a written record or map of the land. The phrase "according to the inheritance of them" is crucial, meaning the description must be done with an understanding of the tribal claims and the ultimate purpose of equitable distribution. It's not just a general survey, but one tailored to the specific needs of the tribal allotments, ensuring fairness and adherence to divine intention.
* **"and they shall come [again] to me."** This final clause emphasizes accountability and completion. The men are to return to Joshua, their mission leader, to report their findings. This ensures that the information is centralized, verified, and ready for the final act of casting lots for the land's division, maintaining order and Joshua's authority in the process. Their return signifies the successful conclusion of their assigned mission.

#### Literary Devices
[Joshua 18:4](/joshua/18-4 "Joshua 18:4 - Joshua's Command to Survey the Land") effectively employs several literary devices to convey its message. The primary device is **Imperative Mood**, as Joshua issues a direct and authoritative command ("Give out," "I will send," "they shall rise," "go through," "describe," "come again"). This highlights his decisive leadership and the urgency of the task. There is also an element of **Repetition** of the core action, as the idea of "going through the land" and "describing it" is central to the command, reinforcing the diligence required. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Symbolism**; the physical land itself symbolizes God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His covenant promises, while the act of surveying and describing it symbolizes the human responsibility to actively appropriate and steward divine blessings. The process also subtly employs **Metonymy**, where "describe it" stands for the entire meticulous process of surveying, mapping, and recording.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Joshua 18:4](/joshua/18-4 "Joshua 18:4 - Joshua's Command to Survey the Land") serves as a powerful reminder that while God's promises are sovereign and sure, their realization often requires diligent human participation and obedience. The Israelites were not to passively wait for the land to be divided for them; they had to actively "go through" and "describe" it. This principle resonates throughout Scripture, illustrating the dynamic interplay between divine grace and human responsibility. It teaches us that faith is not merely intellectual assent but an active trust that compels us to engage with God's will and promises. Just as the physical land was their inheritance, believers today have a spiritual inheritance in Christ, which we are called to understand, explore, and live out. This verse underscores that God's plan often involves human partnership and effort.

* [Deuteronomy 1:8](/deuteronomy/1-8 "The Promise of the Land")
* [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Our Spiritual Inheritance in Christ")
* [Hebrews 4:11](/hebrews/4-11 "Striving to Enter God's Rest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Joshua 18:4](/joshua/18-4 "Joshua 18:4 - Joshua's Command to Survey the Land") offers profound insights for contemporary believers. It challenges any tendency towards spiritual complacency, reminding us that God's abundant provision often requires our active engagement and diligent pursuit. Just as the Israelites had to systematically survey their physical inheritance, we are called to explore and appropriate the spiritual inheritance we have in Christ—the riches of His grace, the power of His Spirit, and the fullness of His promises. This involves intentional study of His Word, prayerful discernment, and active obedience. We are to "go through the land" of our spiritual blessings, understanding their breadth and depth, and "describe" them in our lives through faithful living. This verse encourages us to move beyond a passive reception of salvation to a vibrant, active discipleship that seeks to fully possess and live out the life God intends for us, demonstrating our faith through tangible action and commitment.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where might I be experiencing spiritual complacency in my own life, similar to the tribes in [Joshua 18:3](/joshua/18-3 "Joshua 18:3 - Joshua's Rebuke of the Tribes")?**
* **What "land" or spiritual inheritance has God promised me that I need to actively "go through" and "describe" (i.e., understand and apply) in my daily life?**
* **How can I cultivate a more diligent and organized approach to my spiritual growth and pursuit of God's promises, moving from passive reception to active appropriation?**
* **In what areas of my life am I waiting for God to act, when He might be calling me to "rise" and take a step of faith and action, trusting in His provision?**

### FAQ
**Why did Joshua need to send men to "describe" the land if God had already promised it?**

Answer: God's promise of the land to Israel was absolute, but its practical realization required human cooperation and diligence. Sending men to "describe" (Hebrew: _kâthab_, to write/register) the land was a crucial step in translating a divine promise into a tangible reality. It ensured an orderly, equitable, and documented distribution of territory among the tribes, preventing disputes and establishing clear boundaries. This process demonstrated the Israelites' active faith and obedience, moving from passive expectation to diligent appropriation of their inheritance. It highlights the biblical principle that while God provides, He often calls His people to participate actively in the fulfillment of His plans, ensuring human responsibility in the covenant relationship, as seen throughout the narrative of the conquest and settlement of [Canaan](/joshua/1 "Joshua 1 - God's Charge to Joshua").

**What was the significance of "three men for each tribe"?**

Answer: The selection of "three men for each tribe" was likely a practical measure to ensure comprehensive coverage of the unallotted territory and to provide a measure of tribal representation and accountability. In ancient legal and administrative contexts, the number two or three often signified a reliable and verifiable witness or delegation, lending credibility and authority to their findings. Having three men from each of the seven remaining tribes (a total of 21 men) ensured that the survey was thorough, fair, and had the backing of the respective tribal leadership. This methodical approach underscored the seriousness and importance of the task, aimed at preventing future conflicts over land ownership and ensuring a just distribution, reflecting the divine order that was to characterize the nation of [Israel](/deuteronomy/4 "Deuteronomy 4 - Israel's Call to Obedience").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Joshua 18:4](/joshua/18-4 "Joshua 18:4 - Joshua's Command to Survey the Land"), with its emphasis on surveying and claiming a physical inheritance, powerfully foreshadows the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ. Just as the Israelites were called to actively possess the Promised Land, we are called to appropriate the vast spiritual blessings and "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" that are ours in Christ Jesus ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). The diligent work of the surveyors in Canaan points to the diligent faith required to understand and walk in the fullness of our new covenant realities. However, unlike the Israelites who had to conquer and divide, our ultimate inheritance is not earned but freely given through the finished work of Christ. He is the true "land" and "rest" into which we enter, having accomplished all that was needed for our redemption and full possession of eternal life ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The True Sabbath Rest")). The "describing" of the land can be seen as a type of understanding and articulating the breadth, length, height, and depth of the love of Christ ([Ephesians 3:18-19](/ephesians/3-18 "Ephesians 3:18-19 - The Love of Christ")), which is our true and eternal inheritance, secured not by our surveying, but by His perfect sacrifice and resurrection. He is the ultimate fulfillment of all God's promises, the one in whom we find our complete and everlasting portion ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")), making us "heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ" ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")).

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

Joshua 18:9

And the men went and passed through the land, and described it by cities into seven parts in a book, and came [again] to Joshua to the host at Shiloh.

Joshua 4:2

Take you twelve men out of the people, out of every tribe a man,

Joshua 18:6

Ye shall therefore describe the land [into] seven parts, and bring [the description] hither to me, that I may cast lots for you here before the LORD our God.

Joshua 18:3

And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, How long [are] ye slack to go to possess the land, which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you?

Numbers 13:2

Send thou men, that they may search the land of Canaan, which I give unto the children of Israel: of every tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one a ruler among them.

Joshua 3:12

Now therefore take you twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, out of every tribe a man.

Numbers 1:4

And with you there shall be a man of every tribe; every one head of the house of his fathers.