Joshua 19:31

This [is] the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families, these cities with their villages.

This is the inheritance {H5159} of the tribe {H4294} of the children {H1121} of Asher {H836} according to their families {H4940}, these cities {H5892} with their villages {H2691}.

This is the inheritance of the tribe of the descendants of Asher according to their families, these cities with their villages.

This was the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Asher, including these cities and their villages.

This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families, these cities with their villages.

Commentary

Context of Joshua 19:31

Joshua 19:31 concludes the detailed account of the land allocation for the tribe of Asher. Following the initial conquest of Canaan, the book of Joshua systematically describes how the Promised Land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel by lot, fulfilling the divine command to divide the land. Chapter 19 specifically outlines the territories assigned to Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan. This verse serves as a summary statement, confirming that the described cities and their surrounding villages constituted the complete and rightful inheritance of Asher's families.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Faithfulness: This verse underscores God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises. For generations, the land was promised to Abraham's descendants (Genesis 15:18), and here, through Joshua, that promise is meticulously fulfilled as each tribe receives its specific portion.
  • Order and Specificity: The meticulous detailing of cities and villages for Asher (and other tribes in the preceding verses) highlights the precise and orderly nature of God's provision. It wasn't a haphazard distribution but a divinely ordained allocation tailored "according to their families."
  • Inheritance and Identity: The land was more than just property; it was an inheritance (Hebrew: nachalah, ื ึทื—ึฒืœึธื”), a permanent possession that defined the tribal identity and secured the future for each family within Israel. It signified their place in God's plan and their belonging within the nation.

Linguistic Insights

The term "inheritance" is a key concept throughout the Old Testament, translating the Hebrew word nachalah (ื ึทื—ึฒืœึธื”). It denotes a possession, heritage, or legacy, often received as a gift or by right, emphasizing a secure and enduring portion. In this context, it signifies the divinely granted land that belonged to the tribe of Asher and their descendants in perpetuity.

Practical Application

Joshua 19:31, though a historical detail, offers timeless principles:

  • God's Promises Are Sure: Just as God faithfully provided a specific inheritance for the tribe of Asher, He is faithful to fulfill His promises to us today. We can trust in His provision and His plans for our lives.
  • Security in God's Will: Understanding that God has a specific place and purpose for each of us, like the defined boundaries for Asher, can bring peace and security. Our "inheritance" in Christ is far greater and eternal (Ephesians 1:11).
  • Appreciation for Provision: This verse encourages us to acknowledge and appreciate the specific blessings and provisions God has given us, recognizing them as part of His good and perfect will.
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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 33:24 (2 votes)

    And of Asher he said, [Let] Asher [be] blessed with children; let him be acceptable to his brethren, and let him dip his foot in oil.

  • Deuteronomy 33:25 (2 votes)

    Thy shoes [shall be] iron and brass; and as thy days, [so shall] thy strength [be].

  • Genesis 49:20 (2 votes)

    Out of Asher his bread [shall be] fat, and he shall yield royal dainties.