Joshua 21:11

KJV

And they gave them the city of Arba the father of Anak, which [city is] Hebron, in the hill [country] of Judah, with the suburbs thereof round about it.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they gave {H5414} them the city {H7151} of Arba {H704}{H7153} the father {H1} of Anak {H6061}, which city is Hebron {H2275}, in the hill {H2022} country of Judah {H3063}, with the suburbs {H4054} thereof round about {H5439} it.

Complete Jewish Bible

They gave them: Kiryat-Arba - this Arba was the father of 'Anak - (that is, Hevron), in the hills of Y'hudah, with the surrounding open land;

Berean Standard Bible

They gave them Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), with its surrounding pasturelands, in the hill country of Judah. (Arba was the father of Anak.)

American Standard Version

And they gave them Kiriath-arba, which Arba was the father of Anak (the same is Hebron), in the hill-country of Judah, with the suburbs thereof round about it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 21:11 meticulously records the precise allocation of Hebron, also identified by its ancient name "the city of Arba the father of Anak," to the priestly family of Aaron. This significant city, strategically located in the hill country of Judah, along with its surrounding pasturelands, was designated as one of the forty-eight Levitical cities. This specific assignment underscores God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel and His meticulous establishment of a divinely ordered society with dedicated spiritual leadership.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 21 serves as the culmination of the land distribution narrative in the book of Joshua, detailing the meticulous allocation of cities to the Levites as commanded by God in [Numbers 35](/numbers/35 "Numbers 35 - Cities for the Levites"). This chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness in providing an inheritance for all twelve tribes, including the unique provision for the Levites, whose inheritance was their service to the Lord. Specifically, [Joshua 21:10-19](/joshua/21-10-19 "Joshua 21:10-19 - Cities for the Kohathite Priests") focuses on the cities assigned to the Kohathite priests, the direct descendants of Aaron. Hebron's particular mention here is significant because it had previously been granted to [Caleb as his personal inheritance](/joshua/14-13 "Joshua 14:13 - Caleb's Inheritance of Hebron") for his unwavering faithfulness. The distinction lies in the fact that while Caleb possessed the city proper and its fields for his tribal use, the "suburbs" (pasturelands) and the city's function as a [city of refuge](/joshua/20-7 "Joshua 20:7 - Hebron as a City of Refuge") were designated for the priests, ensuring both their livelihood and accessibility for their sacred duties.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The allocation of Hebron takes place in the post-conquest period, following Israel's initial military campaigns to secure the promised land. Unlike the other tribes who received contiguous territorial inheritances, the Levites, whose inheritance was the Lord Himself and their service to Him ([Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Inheritance")), were given forty-eight scattered cities throughout the nation. This strategic scattering ensured that spiritual leadership, teaching of the Law, and sacrificial service were accessible to all parts of Israel. Hebron itself was an ancient and highly significant city, originally known as Kirjath-arba, named after Arba, a prominent figure among the Anakim, a formidable race of giants who inhabited Canaan. Its conquest by Caleb, and subsequent allocation, powerfully symbolized God's power over the land's previous inhabitants. Furthermore, Hebron held deep historical and spiritual significance for Israel, serving as the burial place for Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah ([Genesis 23:2](/genesis/23-2 "Genesis 23:2 - Sarah's Death in Hebron"), [Genesis 49:31](/genesis/49-31 "Genesis 49:31 - Burial of Leah in Hebron")). Its designation as a priestly city and a city of refuge further cemented its sacred status within the newly established nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes found throughout the book of Joshua and the Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Faithfulness and Provision**, demonstrating God's meticulous care in fulfilling His promises to Israel regarding the land and His specific provision for the Levites, who were set apart for His service. Secondly, the mention of "Arba the father of Anak" underscores the theme of **Conquest and Divine Empowerment**, showcasing how God enabled Israel to overcome formidable enemies and possess the land, even against those of great stature like the Anakim ([Numbers 13:33](/numbers/13-33 "Numbers 13:33 - The Giants in Canaan")). Thirdly, the allocation of Hebron to the priests emphasizes the **Importance of Spiritual Leadership and Order** within the newly established nation. The strategic placement of priestly cities ensured that the Levites could effectively serve as spiritual guides, judges, and teachers, maintaining the nation's covenant relationship with God. Finally, the dual allocation of Hebron (to Caleb and the priests) illustrates the theme of **Distinction of Roles and Shared Stewardship**, where different members of God's people have unique callings and responsibilities within the larger divine plan, all contributing to the nation's well-being and covenant fidelity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Arba (Hebrew, _ʼArbaʿ_):** This name refers to the progenitor or most significant figure of the Anakim, a formidable race inhabiting Hebron before the Israelite conquest. The Anakim were a people of great stature, and their presence in Hebron (originally Kirjath-arba) underscored the strength of the pre-Israelite inhabitants. The Israelites' successful conquest of Hebron, particularly by Caleb, demonstrated God's power to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles and fulfill His promise to give them the land, regardless of the strength of its current occupants.
* **Hebron (Hebrew, _Ḥeḇrōn_):** Derived from a root meaning "association" or "confederacy," this ancient city held immense historical and spiritual significance for Israel. It was a primary dwelling place for Abraham and the burial site of the patriarchs and matriarchs. Its name, possibly reflecting a place of alliance or fellowship, aligns with its later function as a city of refuge, where those accused of unintentional homicide could find sanctuary and protection, emphasizing a place of communal justice and reconciliation.
* **Suburbs (Hebrew, _migrāš_):** This term refers specifically to the pasturelands surrounding the Levitical cities, designated for their livestock and agricultural needs. It highlights the unique nature of the Levitical inheritance: while the other tribes received land for cultivation and settlement, the Levites received cities with their adjacent common lands. This distinction allowed them to focus on their spiritual duties without being tied to extensive agricultural labor, while still providing for their sustenance and reinforcing their unique role as servants of the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they gave them the city of Arba the father of Anak":** This clause indicates the collective action of the Israelite tribes, led by Joshua, in distributing the land and cities as commanded by God. "Them" refers specifically to the sons of Aaron, who were the priestly branch of the Kohathite Levites, as detailed in the preceding verses of [Joshua 21](/joshua/21 "Joshua 21 - The Levitical Cities"). This action signifies the fulfillment of God's promise and the establishment of the Levitical system within the land. The identification of the city by its ancient name, "Arba the father of Anak," serves as a historical marker, reminding the reader of the formidable Anakim who once inhabited the region and whose defeat by Caleb was a testament to God's power and faithfulness in enabling Israel to conquer the land.
* **"which [city is] Hebron":** This clarifies the identity of the city, transitioning from its ancient, pre-Israelite name (Kirjath-arba) to its more commonly known Israelite name, Hebron. It emphasizes the continuity of the location's significance, now under Israelite control and designated for sacred purposes, demonstrating the transformation of the land under God's sovereignty.
* **"in the hill [country] of Judah":** This specifies the geographical and tribal location of Hebron. Its placement in the mountainous region of Judah was strategically important, providing a central location for the priests within one of the most prominent tribes. This ensured their accessibility and influence across the southern part of the land, facilitating their role as spiritual guides and teachers.
* **"with the suburbs thereof round about it":** This crucial detail defines the precise nature of the priests' inheritance in Hebron. While Caleb received the city itself and its fields for his tribal portion, the priests were specifically allocated the surrounding pasturelands. This distinction was vital for their sustenance and allowed them to carry out their sacred duties without needing to engage in extensive farming, reinforcing their unique role as servants of the Lord and highlighting the meticulous provision for their needs.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs **Geographical Specificity** by precisely locating Hebron "in the hill [country] of Judah," grounding the narrative in a tangible, historical setting and emphasizing the meticulous nature of the land distribution. **Naming and Renaming** is evident in the dual identification of the city as "the city of Arba the father of Anak" and "Hebron," highlighting both its ancient, pre-Israelite past and its new identity under Israelite possession. This also subtly employs **Contrast** between the formidable, giant-filled past and the divinely ordered, priestly present. Furthermore, the inclusion of "with the suburbs thereof round about it" demonstrates **Precision and Detail**, underscoring the legal and theological exactness of God's covenant fulfillment and the distinct nature of the Levitical inheritance, ensuring their provision while maintaining their unique calling.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 21:11 powerfully illustrates God's meticulous faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel, particularly concerning the land and the establishment of a divinely ordered society. The allocation of Hebron to the priests, even with its complex history and prior association with Caleb, demonstrates God's sovereign hand in orchestrating every detail for the good of His people and the advancement of His kingdom. It underscores the principle that God provides for those dedicated to His service, ensuring their sustenance and strategic placement for maximum spiritual impact. The presence of priests in key cities like Hebron across the land was vital for maintaining Israel's spiritual health, providing access to instruction in the Law, and facilitating the sacrificial system, thus emphasizing the importance of accessible spiritual leadership and the centrality of worship in the nation's life.

* [Numbers 35:6](/numbers/35-6 "Numbers 35:6 - Cities for the Levites and Cities of Refuge")
* [Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Inheritance")
* [1 Chronicles 6:55](/1_chronicles/6-55 "1 Chronicles 6:55 - Allocation of Hebron to Aaron's Sons")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 21:11 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us of God's unwavering faithfulness and His meticulous provision for those called to serve Him. Just as the Levites were strategically placed throughout Israel to be spiritual guides and teachers, so too are believers today called to be salt and light in their respective spheres of influence. This verse encourages us to trust in God's divine order and provision, recognizing that He knows our needs and will equip us for the tasks He has set before us. It challenges us to consider our own "inheritance" in Christ—not merely material possessions, but spiritual blessings and a calling to participate in His redemptive work. The dual nature of Hebron's allocation also highlights the importance of stewardship and discerning how our gifts and resources can be used to further God's kingdom, whether through direct service or supporting those who are. We are all part of God's intricate plan, and each role, no matter how seemingly small, contributes to the larger tapestry of His redemptive purposes, reflecting His wisdom and care for His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's meticulous provision for the Levites in Joshua 21:11 encourage your trust in His provision for your own life and calling?**
* **In what ways can you, like the Levites, be a spiritual influence and guide in your community or sphere of work?**
* **What does the dual allocation of Hebron (to Caleb and the priests) teach us about shared responsibility and diverse roles within God's kingdom?**
* **How does the historical significance of Hebron, as a place of patriarchs and Anakim, underscore the power and faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises?**

### FAQ
**Why was Hebron given to the priests when Caleb already received it as his inheritance?**

Answer: This is a common point of inquiry that highlights God's meticulous and multi-layered plan for the land's distribution. While [Joshua 14:13-14](/joshua/14-13-14 "Joshua 14:13-14 - Caleb's Inheritance") explicitly states that Caleb received Hebron as his personal inheritance due to his faithfulness, [Joshua 21:11](/joshua/21-11 "Joshua 21:11 - Hebron for the Priests") clarifies that the city of Hebron, specifically its "suburbs" (pasturelands), was given to the sons of Aaron, the priestly family. This indicates a distinction: Caleb received the city proper and its fields for his tribal and family use, while the priests received the city's function as a Levitical city and a [city of refuge](/joshua/20-7 "Joshua 20:7 - Hebron as a City of Refuge"), along with the surrounding common lands necessary for their livelihood and the pasturing of their flocks. This arrangement ensured that the priests, whose inheritance was the Lord Himself and their service ([Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Inheritance")), had a dwelling place and means of sustenance while being strategically placed throughout Israel to fulfill their spiritual duties. It reflects a divine economy where land could serve multiple purposes and be shared for the greater good of the nation and the fulfillment of God's commands.

**What was the significance of Hebron being called "the city of Arba the father of Anak"?**

Answer: The designation "the city of Arba the father of Anak" for Hebron (originally Kirjath-arba) carries significant historical and theological weight. Arba was a prominent figure, likely the founder or a revered ancestor, of the Anakim, a race of formidable giants who inhabited Canaan before the Israelite conquest. Their presence represented a significant obstacle to Israel's possession of the land, as reported by the fearful spies in [Numbers 13:33](/numbers/13-33 "Numbers 13:33 - The Giants in Canaan"). By referring to Hebron by its ancient name, the text emphasizes the magnitude of the conquest God enabled Israel to achieve. Caleb's successful taking of Hebron from the Anakim ([Joshua 14:12](/joshua/14-12 "Joshua 14:12 - Caleb's Request for Hebron")) was a powerful demonstration of God's faithfulness to His promises and His ability to empower His people to overcome even the most daunting adversaries. It served as a constant reminder that the land was not taken by Israel's might, but by God's miraculous intervention, fulfilling His covenant to Abraham ([Genesis 15:18-21](/genesis/15-18-21 "Genesis 15:18-21 - God's Covenant with Abraham")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 21:11, detailing the allocation of Hebron to the Levitical priests, richly foreshadows the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Levites' unique inheritance, being the Lord Himself rather than a tribal land portion ([Deuteronomy 10:9](/deuteronomy/10-9 "Deuteronomy 10:9 - The Levites' Inheritance")), points to Christ as the ultimate inheritance for all believers. In Him, we find our true dwelling place, our sustenance, and the fulfillment of all our needs, far surpassing any earthly possession or geographical allocation ([Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ")). Hebron's designation as a city of refuge, where those accused of unintentional homicide could find sanctuary, powerfully prefigures Christ as our ultimate refuge and safe haven from the condemnation of sin. Just as the gates of Hebron offered protection, so Jesus, through His atoning sacrifice, offers eternal security and forgiveness to all who flee to Him for salvation ([Hebrews 6:18](/hebrews/6-18 "Hebrews 6:18 - Refuge in Christ")). Furthermore, the priestly role of the sons of Aaron, to whom Hebron was given, finds its perfect and eternal fulfillment in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest. Unlike the Levitical priests who offered sacrifices repeatedly and were subject to death, Christ offered Himself once for all time, making perfect atonement for our sins and interceding for us eternally before God ([Hebrews 7:23-27](/hebrews/7-23-27 "Hebrews 7:23-27 - Christ's Superior Priesthood")). The strategic scattering of the Levitical cities, including Hebron, throughout Israel to provide spiritual guidance and teaching, can be seen as a type of the Church's mission, empowered by Christ, to be His witnesses and agents of His truth throughout the world, bringing the message of salvation and fellowship to all nations ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")).

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

1 Chronicles 6:55

And they gave them Hebron in the land of Judah, and the suburbs thereof round about it.

Luke 1:39

¶ And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

Genesis 35:27

And Jacob came unto Isaac his father unto Mamre, unto the city of Arbah, which [is] Hebron, where Abraham and Isaac sojourned.

2 Samuel 5:1

¶ Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we [are] thy bone and thy flesh.

2 Samuel 5:5

In Hebron he reigned over Judah seven years and six months: and in Jerusalem he reigned thirty and three years over all Israel and Judah.

Joshua 15:54

And Humtah, and Kirjatharba, which [is] Hebron, and Zior; nine cities with their villages:

Judges 1:10

And Judah went against the Canaanites that dwelt in Hebron: (now the name of Hebron before [was] Kirjatharba:) and they slew Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai.