TRV
Translation
KJV (with Strong's)
Berean Standard Bible
Their inheritance lay within the territory of Judah and included Beersheba (or Sheba), Moladah,
Young's Literal Translation
and they have in their inheritance Beer-Sheba, and Sheba, and Moladah,
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In the KJVVerse 6,324 of 31,102
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Commentary on Joshua 19 verses 1–9
1 ¶ And the second lot came forth to Simeon, even for the tribe of the children of Simeon according to their families: and their inheritance was within the inheritance of the children of Judah.
2 And they had in their inheritance Beersheba, or Sheba, and Moladah,
3 And Hazarshual, and Balah, and Azem,
4 And Eltolad, and Bethul, and Hormah,
5 And Ziklag, and Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusah,
6 And Bethlebaoth, and Sharuhen; thirteen cities and their villages:
7 Ain, Remmon, and Ether, and Ashan; four cities and their villages:
8 And all the villages that were round about these cities to Baalathbeer, Ramath of the south. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Simeon according to their families.
9 Out of the portion of the children of Judah was the inheritance of the children of Simeon: for the part of the children of Judah was too much for them: therefore the children of Simeon had their inheritance within the inheritance of them.
Simeon's lot was drawn after Judah's, Joseph's, and Benjamin's, because Jacob had put that tribe under disgrace; yet it is put before the two younger sons of Leah and the three sons of the handmaids. Not one person of note, neither judge nor prophet, was of this tribe, that we know of.
I. The situation of their lot was within that of Judah (Jos 19:1) and was taken from it, Jos 19:9. It seems, those that first surveyed the land thought it larger than it was, and that it would have held out to give every tribe in proportion as large a share as they had carved out for Judah; but, upon a more strict enquiry, it was found that it would not reach (Jos 19:9): The part of the children of Judah was too much for them, more than they needed, and more, as it proved, than fell to their share. Yet God did not by the lot lessen it, but left it to their prudence and care afterwards to discover and rectify the mistake, which when they did, 1. The men of Judah did not oppose the taking away of the cities again, which by the first distribution fell within their border, when they were convinced that they had more than their proportion. In all such cases errors must be excepted and a review admitted if there be occasion. Though, in strictness, what fell to their lot was their right against all the world, yet they would not insist upon it when it appeared that another tribe would want what they had to spare. Note, We must look on the things of others, and not on our own only. The abundance of some must supply the wants of others, that there may be somewhat of an equality, for which there may be equity where there is not law. 2. That which was thus taken off from Judah to be put into a new lot Providence directed to the tribe of Simeon, that Jacob's prophecy concerning this tribe might be fulfilled, I will divide them in Jacob. The cities of Simeon were scattered in Judah, with which tribe they were surrounded, except on that side towards the sea. This brought them into a confederacy with the tribe of Judah (Jdg 1:3), and afterwards was a happy occasion of the adherence of many of this tribe to the house of David, at the time of the revolt of the ten tribes to Jeroboam. Ch2 15:9, out of Simeon they fell to Asa in abundance. It is good being in a good neighbourhood.
II. The cities within their lot are here named. Beersheba, or Sheba, for these names seem to refer to the same place, is put first. Ziklag, which we read of in David's story, is one of them. What course they took to enlarge their borders and make room for themselves we find Ch1 4:39, etc.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–9. 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 19:2 meticulously delineates a specific segment of the tribal inheritance allotted to Simeon within the Promised Land, identifying the cities of Beersheba, Sheba, and Moladah. This verse, embedded within the broader account of land distribution, powerfully underscores God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Israel, demonstrating His sovereign provision and meticulous care in establishing His chosen people securely within the territory He had sworn to bestow upon them.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Joshua 19:2, and indeed throughout the land distribution chapters, is Cataloging or Enumeration. The detailed listing of cities and boundaries serves to underscore the tangible and precise fulfillment of God's promises. This meticulous inventory provides a sense of authenticity and historical accuracy, demonstrating that the inheritance was not vague but concretely defined, leaving no doubt as to the divine execution of the covenant. Another significant device is Geographical Specificity, which grounds the theological narrative in real-world locations, making God's faithfulness observable and verifiable. The mention of Beersheba also employs Allusion, referencing the rich patriarchal history associated with that location, thereby connecting the present fulfillment of the land promise directly to the foundational covenant narratives of Abraham and Isaac. The consistent pattern of listing cities and boundaries across the various tribal allotments also creates a sense of Repetition, reinforcing the overarching themes of divine order, comprehensive provision, and the undeniable reality of God's covenant-keeping character.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 19:2, though a seemingly mundane listing of cities, is profoundly theological. It stands as a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, particularly the Abrahamic covenant to give the land of Canaan to Abraham's descendants. The meticulous detail in the land distribution, even for a tribe like Simeon whose inheritance was uniquely situated within Judah's larger territory, reveals God's sovereign hand in orchestrating every aspect of His people's lives and destiny. It demonstrates that God's promises are not vague generalities but specific, tangible realities that He brings to pass with precision and care. This verse also implicitly highlights the theme of divine provision, showing how God ensures that each part of His people receives its due portion, confirming His commitment to their well-being, security, and identity within the land.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The detailed account of Simeon's inheritance, including the specific cities listed in Joshua 19:2, offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God is a God of meticulous detail and unfailing faithfulness. Just as He precisely fulfilled His promise to provide an inheritance for each tribe, He also cares for the intricate details of our lives, orchestrating circumstances and providing for our needs according to His perfect plan. Even when our "inheritance" or path seems unconventional, or intertwined with others, like Simeon's within Judah, we can trust in God's sovereign design. This passage encourages us to look for and appreciate the specific provisions and blessings God has given us, recognizing them as part of His divine blueprint for our lives. It invites us to rest in the assurance that the God who meticulously divided a land is the same God who orders our steps, provides for our daily bread, and ensures our ultimate good, working all things together for those who love Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Simeon's inheritance within the territory of Judah?
Answer: Simeon's unique inheritance within Judah's territory is generally understood as a fulfillment of Jacob's prophetic words concerning Simeon and Levi in Genesis 49:7. Jacob declared that they would be "divided in Jacob, and scattered in Israel." While Levi was scattered through the Levitical cities, Simeon's inheritance within Judah's larger territory, rather than a distinct, contiguous region, effectively dispersed them among a larger tribe. This arrangement may also reflect Simeon's relatively smaller population size compared to other tribes, making a separate large territory impractical, or it could have been a strategic integration for mutual defense and support, highlighting God's sovereign plan even in seemingly disadvantageous situations.
What is the significance of "Beersheba, or Sheba" in this verse?
Answer: The phrase "Beersheba, or Sheba" highlights the importance of this region to Simeon's inheritance. The Hebrew word או ('o), translated as "or," can indicate either an alternative name for the same place (i.e., Beersheba was also known as Sheba) or that Sheba was a distinct, but very closely associated, satellite settlement or suburb of Beersheba. In either case, Beersheba itself was a historically vital city, deeply connected to the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac, and often marked the southern boundary of Israel. Its inclusion underscores the deep roots of Simeon's inheritance in the land's sacred history and its strategic importance.
Does this detailed listing of ancient cities have any relevance for believers today?
Answer: Absolutely. While the specific geographical details might seem remote, the underlying theological principles are timeless and profoundly relevant. This meticulous cataloging underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His promises. Just as He precisely fulfilled His word to Israel concerning the land, He is faithful to His promises to us in Christ. It also demonstrates God's meticulous care and sovereign order; He is a God who pays attention to the details, ensuring that His plans are perfectly executed. This should inspire confidence and trust in His provision and guidance in our own lives, reminding us that He works out all things according to His perfect will, even the seemingly small or mundane details, for the good of those who love Him.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The earthly inheritance of land described in Joshua 19:2, meticulously divided among the tribes of Israel, serves as a profound foreshadowing of the spiritual inheritance believers receive in Christ. Just as the physical land was a tangible fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham's descendants, so too is the spiritual inheritance in Christ the ultimate and eternal fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity. Our true "place" and "portion" are not found in geographical boundaries or tribal allotments, but in being "in Christ" and part of His spiritual kingdom, which transcends earthly limitations. Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, Jesus has secured for us an "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you" (1 Peter 1:4). This eternal inheritance, which includes "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places" (Ephesians 1:3), is not earned by human effort but is a gracious gift, guaranteed by the indwelling Holy Spirit as our "guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it" (Ephesians 1:14). Thus, the precise detail of Joshua 19:2, far from being merely historical, points us to the infinitely more glorious and secure inheritance that is ours through the finished work of Jesus Christ, the ultimate fulfillment of all God's promises and the true "Promised Land" for all who believe.