Joshua 19:35

KJV

And the fenced cities [are] Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth,

KJV (with Strong's)

And the fenced {H4013} cities {H5892} are Ziddim {H6661}, Zer {H6863}, and Hammath {H2575}, Rakkath {H7557}, and Chinnereth {H3672},

Complete Jewish Bible

The fortified cities were Tzidim, Tzer, Hamat, Rakat, Kinneret,

Berean Standard Bible

The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth,

American Standard Version

And the fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 19:35 meticulously lists five fortified settlements—Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth—as integral components of the tribal inheritance granted to Naphtali in the northern region of the Promised Land. This verse, situated within the detailed account of Israel's land distribution, profoundly underscores God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises, the strategic importance of these "fenced cities" for defense and administration in the nascent nation, and the precise, orderly nature of the divine provision extended to each tribe.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 19 continues the detailed account of the division of the land of Canaan among the remaining Israelite tribes, building upon the initial distributions to Judah, Ephraim, and Manasseh in preceding chapters. The book of Joshua, as a whole, chronicles Israel's conquest and settlement, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. Within this broader narrative, [Joshua 19](/joshua/19 "Joshua 19 - Tribal Allotments") specifically delineates the territories for the final seven tribes, commencing with Simeon and concluding with Joshua's personal inheritance. Verses 32-39 are dedicated exclusively to the territory assigned to the tribe of Naphtali, one of Jacob's sons. The enumeration of specific cities, including the "fenced cities" in [Joshua 19:35](/joshua/19-35 "Joshua 19:35 - Fenced Cities of Naphtali"), functions as a precise geographical and administrative anchor, meticulously defining the boundaries and key strongholds within Naphtali's designated inheritance. This detailed listing reinforces the overarching theme of divine order and the complete fulfillment of God's promise to provide a secure homeland for His people, ensuring every tribe received its designated portion as recorded in [Joshua 18:1-10](/joshua/18 "Joshua 18 - Division of the Land").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in the book of Joshua represents a critical transition for Israel from nomadic wanderers to an established nation. While significant military campaigns had secured much of the land, the Israelites still faced the formidable challenge of fully dispossessing the remaining Canaanite inhabitants and solidifying their borders against external threats. "Fenced cities" (עָרֵי מִבְצָר, _'arei mivtzar_) were indispensable in this volatile context. These were not mere settlements but highly fortified urban centers, often strategically positioned on elevated terrain or equipped with substantial defensive walls, designed to protect inhabitants, control vital trade routes, and serve as administrative hubs. The inclusion of such cities within Naphtali's allotment underscores the ongoing need for defense and the strategic significance of this northern region, which bordered other peoples and was historically prone to incursions. Culturally, the precise land division was foundational to the tribal structure of Israel, with inherited land serving as the primary source of identity, livelihood, and the tangible fulfillment of the covenant promises made to their patriarchs, as initially articulated in [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham").

* **Key Themes:** This verse, and the broader context of [Joshua 19](/joshua/19 "Joshua 19 - Tribal Allotments"), contributes profoundly to several overarching theological and narrative themes. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Faithfulness and Fulfillment**, demonstrating God's unwavering commitment to His ancient covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants to grant them the land of Canaan, as recorded in [Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "Genesis 15:18-21 - The Abrahamic Covenant"). Secondly, the meticulous listing of cities underscores God's **Order and Meticulousness** in His divine plan, leaving no ambiguity about each tribe's rightful and secure inheritance. This precision reflects a divine blueprint, not a haphazard distribution, ensuring justice and stability. Thirdly, it specifically defines **Naphtali's Inheritance**, providing concrete geographical markers for their assigned territory, thereby establishing their place within the emerging nation. Finally, the emphasis on "fenced cities" highlights the **Strategic Importance** of these locations for defense, administration, and maintaining control over the newly acquired territories, even as the process of complete conquest continued, as evidenced by later struggles mentioned in [Judges 1](/judges/1 "Judges 1 - Incomplete Conquest").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fenced (Hebrew, _mibtsâr'_):** From H4013 (מִבְצָר), this term denotes "a fortification, castle, or fortified city; figuratively, a defender." It emphasizes the robust defensive capabilities of these urban centers, indicating they were not merely residential areas but strategically constructed strongholds. Their inclusion signifies the importance of security and control in the newly acquired territory, reflecting the practical realities of settlement in a contested land.
* **Cities (Hebrew, _ʻîyr'_):** From H5892 (עִיר), this word refers to "a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense." It suggests a place of habitation that is protected or watched over, implying a degree of organization and communal living. When combined with "fenced," it paints a picture of urban centers designed for both habitation and defense, crucial for establishing Israelite presence and authority.
* **Chinnereth (Hebrew, _Kinnᵉrôwth'_):** From H3672 (כִּנֶּרֶת), this is a significant geographical name, possibly meaning "harp-shaped." It refers to a place in Palestine, specifically the region around the large freshwater lake that would later become known as the Sea of Galilee. Its inclusion in Naphtali's inheritance places this tribe in a region that would become profoundly significant in later biblical history, particularly during the ministry of Jesus.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the fenced cities [are]":** This introductory phrase immediately establishes the focus on strategic, fortified urban centers within the allocated territory. The use of "fenced cities" (עָרֵי מִבְצָר) conveys their defensive nature, indicating they were crucial points for military control and protection. It highlights the practical aspect of God's provision—not just land, but secure strongholds for His people.
* **"Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth":** This precise enumeration lists five specific cities within Naphtali's inheritance. While the exact modern locations of Ziddim (H6661, meaning "sides") and Zer (H6863, meaning "rock") are debated, Hammath (H2575, meaning "hot springs") is often identified with the ancient site near the hot springs of Tiberias, and Rakkath (H7557, meaning "beach" or "expanded shingle") is frequently associated with the ancient city that later became Tiberias itself. Chinnereth (H3672) refers to the region around the Sea of Galilee. This detailed listing underscores the meticulousness of the land distribution, ensuring that Naphtali's inheritance included vital strategic points for defense, trade, and settlement within their designated boundaries, reflecting divine order and precision.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Joshua 19:35 is **Enumeration** or **Listing**. This technique is characteristic of the administrative, legal, and genealogical sections found throughout the Pentateuch and historical books. Its purpose here is to provide a detailed, precise, and authoritative record of the land divisions and tribal inheritances, thereby legitimizing and concretizing the tribal boundaries and leaving no ambiguity about the extent of Naphtali's territory. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Topography/Geography**, as the specific names of these cities function as tangible geographical markers, grounding the narrative in a real, historical landscape. The mention of "Chinnereth" also carries a subtle but profound element of **Foreshadowing**, as this strategically important Old Testament region would later become the primary setting for the earthly ministry of Jesus Christ, transforming its significance from a military stronghold to a spiritual epicenter of the Kingdom of God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 19:35, though appearing as a mere list of names, profoundly reinforces the theological truth of God's covenant faithfulness and His meticulous care for His people. The precise allocation of "fenced cities" within Naphtali's inheritance is a tangible demonstration of God fulfilling His ancient promise to Abraham that his descendants would indeed possess the land. It speaks to the divine order and intentionality in establishing a secure homeland for Israel, providing not just territory but also strategic strongholds necessary for their protection and flourishing. This detailed provision underscores God's unwavering commitment to His word, ensuring that every aspect of His promise, down to the specific cities, was realized. It is a testament to God's reliability and His comprehensive provision for His people.

* [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham")
* [Deuteronomy 1:8](/deuteronomy/1-8 "Deuteronomy 1:8 - The Promised Land")
* [Joshua 21:43-45](/joshua/21-43-45 "Joshua 21:43-45 - God's Fulfillment of Promises")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The meticulous detail of city enumeration in Joshua 19:35, particularly the emphasis on "fenced cities" within Naphtali's inheritance, offers profound insights into the character of God and His dealings with humanity. It serves as a powerful reminder that God is a God of order, precision, and unwavering faithfulness, fulfilling His promises down to the smallest detail. Just as He meticulously planned and distributed the land to each tribe, providing them with secure, fortified places for their protection and flourishing, so too does He orchestrate the details of our lives, providing security, establishing boundaries, and preparing a spiritual inheritance for us. This verse encourages us to trust in His comprehensive provision and to recognize that our spiritual "boundaries" in Christ are divinely established for our ultimate protection and flourishing. It invites us to consider the profound security we find in our spiritual inheritance, which is far more enduring and unshakeable than any earthly city. We are called to live within the parameters God has set for us, finding peace, purpose, and true rest in His perfect plan, knowing that He is intimately involved in every aspect of our journey and that His promises are always "Yes" and "Amen" in Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the meticulous detail of land distribution in Joshua, including the listing of "fenced cities," deepen your understanding of God's character and His unwavering faithfulness?**
* **In what ways do you perceive God providing "fenced cities" or secure boundaries in your own life, offering protection, stability, and a sense of belonging?**
* **How does the concept of an earthly inheritance in Joshua foreshadow or relate to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ, as described in the New Testament?**
* **What does this verse teach us about the importance of order and precision in God's divine plan, and how might this understanding apply to our own lives and our trust in His sovereignty?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "fenced cities" in this particular context of tribal inheritance?**

Answer: The term "fenced cities" (עָרֵי מִבְצָר, _'arei mivtzar_) refers to fortified urban centers, typically equipped with substantial defensive walls, towers, and gates, or naturally situated in highly defensible locations. Their significance in [Joshua 19:35](/joshua/19-35 "Joshua 19:35 - Fenced Cities of Naphtali") is multifaceted and crucial for understanding the post-conquest period. Firstly, they represent strategic strongholds essential for the security and control of the newly acquired tribal territory. In a period of ongoing settlement and potential conflict with remaining Canaanite populations or neighboring peoples, these cities provided vital protection for the inhabitants and served as administrative and military bases. Secondly, their inclusion in the land allotment underscores the practical aspect of God's provision—He gave not just the land, but also the means to secure and sustain it, demonstrating His comprehensive care for His people. Finally, it highlights the reality that even after initial conquest, the Israelites still faced challenges and needed to maintain vigilance and establish firm control, emphasizing the blend of divine provision and human responsibility in establishing their nation and securing their inheritance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 19:35 meticulously details an earthly inheritance of fortified cities for the tribe of Naphtali, it powerfully foreshadows the spiritual inheritance and ultimate security found in Christ. The "Promised Land" itself, with its provisions and protections, serves as a profound type of the heavenly rest and spiritual blessings that believers receive in Christ, as richly expounded in [Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4-1-11 "Hebrews 4:1-11 - The Promise of Rest"). Just as the Israelites received a physical inheritance with "fenced cities" for their temporal protection and flourishing, believers are granted an eternal inheritance in Christ, secured by His finished work on the cross and His resurrection power. Our true "fenced city" is the salvation and eternal life offered through Jesus, a refuge stronger and more enduring than any earthly wall or fortress, as poetically depicted in [Psalm 46:1](/psalms/46-1 "Psalm 46:1 - God Our Refuge and Strength") and confirmed in the unshakeable Kingdom of God (cf. [Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - An Unshakeable Kingdom")). Furthermore, the specific mention of Chinnereth (the Sea of Galilee) in this verse is a direct and poignant prophetic link to the New Testament, where this very region became the primary stage for Jesus' earthly ministry. It was along the shores of this lake that He called His first disciples (e.g., [Matthew 4:18-22](/matthew/4-18-22 "Matthew 4:18-22 - Jesus Calls His First Disciples")), performed numerous miracles of healing and provision (e.g., [Mark 6:30-44](/mark/6-30-44 "Mark 6:30-44 - Feeding the Five Thousand")), and taught the crowds with unparalleled authority (e.g., [Matthew 5:1-12](/matthew/5-1-12 "Matthew 5:1-12 - The Beatitudes")), transforming a strategically fortified Old Testament territory into the very epicenter of the Kingdom of God and the revelation of the Messiah. Thus, the earthly inheritance of Naphtali, including its fortified cities, ultimately points to the superior, eternal, and Christ-centered inheritance and security that believers possess in Jesus, the true King and Shepherd of our souls.

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 11:2

And to the kings that [were] on the north of the mountains, and of the plains south of Chinneroth, and in the valley, and in the borders of Dor on the west,

1 Kings 8:65

And at that time Solomon held a feast, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, seven days and seven days, [even] fourteen days.

Genesis 10:18

And the Arvadite, and the Zemarite, and the Hamathite: and afterward were the families of the Canaanites spread abroad.

Numbers 34:8

From mount Hor ye shall point out [your border] unto the entrance of Hamath; and the goings forth of the border shall be to Zedad:

Numbers 13:21

¶ So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath.

Joshua 13:27

And in the valley, Betharam, and Bethnimrah, and Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, Jordan and [his] border, [even] unto the edge of the sea of Chinnereth on the other side Jordan eastward.

Mark 6:53

And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore.