Judges 1:9

¶ And afterward the children of Judah went down to fight against the Canaanites, that dwelt in the mountain, and in the south, and in the valley.

And afterward {H310} the children {H1121} of Judah {H3063} went down {H3381} to fight {H3898} against the Canaanites {H3669}, that dwelt {H3427} in the mountain {H2022}, and in the south {H5045}, and in the valley {H8219}.

Afterwards, the people of Y'hudah went down to fight against the Kena'ani who lived in the hill-country, in the Negev, and in the Sh'felah.

Afterward, the men of Judah marched down to fight against the Canaanites living in the hill country, in the Negev, and in the foothills.

And afterward the children of Judah went down to fight against the Canaanites that dwelt in the hill-country, and in the South, and in the lowland.

Commentary

Context

Judges chapter 1 serves as an introduction to the period of the Judges, detailing the initial efforts of the Israelite tribes to conquer and settle the land of Canaan after the death of Joshua. Verse 9 follows the account of the tribe of Judah and Simeon taking the lead, seeking direction from God (Judges 1:1-2). Having achieved some initial victories, this verse describes Judah's continued campaign against the native Canaanite inhabitants in specific geographical areas within their allotted territory.

Verse Meaning and Significance

This verse highlights the ongoing nature of the conquest. Even after initial successes, the children of Judah had to continue fighting to take possession of the land promised to them. The mention of fighting in the "mountain," "south," and "valley" indicates the diverse and challenging terrain they encountered. The "south" (often referring to the Negeb) was a semi-arid region, while the "mountain" area of Judah was rocky and difficult. The "valley" (likely referring to the Shephelah or lowlands between the mountain range and the coast) also presented its own challenges. This verse shows Judah's active participation in the task assigned to Israel, battling the Canaanites who still occupied these areas.

Key Themes

  • Continued Conquest: The process of taking the land was not a single event but required persistent effort.
  • Tribal Responsibility: Judah, having been designated to go first, actively pursued its role in the conquest.
  • Geographic Challenges: The diverse landscape of Canaan (mountains, south, valleys) presented different obstacles requiring varied military approaches.
  • Ongoing Conflict: The presence of Canaanites in these areas necessitated continued warfare to secure the territory.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV terms "mountain," "south," and "valley" correspond to distinct Hebrew geographical terms: har (mountain region), negeb (the southern arid region), and shephelah (the lowlands or foothills). Understanding these terms emphasizes that the fight was not confined to one type of terrain but involved securing control over varied landscapes within Judah's inheritance.

Reflection and Application

Judges 1:9 reminds us that possessing what God has promised often requires persistent effort and navigating diverse challenges. Just as Judah had to fight in mountains, valleys, and the south, believers today face spiritual battles in various aspects of life (Ephesians 6:12). The work of faith involves ongoing commitment and perseverance, not just initial steps. We are called to trust in God's strength while actively engaging in the tasks set before us, understanding that securing spiritual ground is an ongoing process.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 15:13 (2 votes)

    ¶ And unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh he gave a part among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the LORD to Joshua, [even] the city of Arba the father of Anak, which [city is] Hebron.

  • Joshua 15:20 (2 votes)

    ¶ This [is] the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families.

  • Joshua 11:21 (2 votes)

    And at that time came Joshua, and cut off the Anakims from the mountains, from Hebron, from Debir, from Anab, and from all the mountains of Judah, and from all the mountains of Israel: Joshua destroyed them utterly with their cities.

  • Joshua 10:36 (2 votes)

    And Joshua went up from Eglon, and all Israel with him, unto Hebron; and they fought against it: