The Hebrew word Qartâh, represented by H7177, is a proper noun for a city in Palestine. Based on the root word for "city," its sole appearance in the Bible occurs once in one verse, identifying it as a specific location allocated during the division of the promised land.
The single reference to H7177 is found in the detailed records of the cities assigned to the Levites. In Joshua 21:34, Kartah is listed as one of the cities given by the tribe of Zebulun to the Levite families descended from Merari. It is mentioned alongside the city of Jokneam, with the text specifying that both were given "with her suburbs," indicating the provision of surrounding pasture land for the priestly tribe Joshua 21:34.
Several related words from its biblical context help clarify its significance:
- H2074 Zᵉbûwlûwn (Zebulun): The tribe whose territory included Kartah. The definition is "Zebulon, a son of Jacob; also his territory and tribe." This city was part of the land allotted to the descendants of Zebulun before being designated for the Levites Joshua 21:34.
- H3881 Lêvîyîy (Levite): A descendant of Levi. The Levites were the recipients of Kartah. As the priestly tribe, they did not receive a large territorial inheritance but were given cities within the lands of other tribes Deuteronomy 14:29.
- H4847 Mᵉrârîy (Merari): A son of Levi and ancestor of a major Levite clan. Kartah was specifically given to the "children of Merari" Joshua 21:34, one of the three main family lines of the Levites Genesis 46:11.
- H4054 migrâsh (suburbs): The open land surrounding a city. The allocation of Kartah included its suburbs, providing the Levites with necessary space for pasture and sustenance Joshua 21:34.
The mention of H7177 contributes to the larger theological framework of God's covenant fulfillment with Israel.
- Levitical Provision: The granting of Kartah is a tangible example of God's command to provide for the Levites H3881. Though they had no tribal land portion, cities like Kartah ensured they were integrated throughout Israel and sustained by its people Numbers 35:2.
- Covenantal Order: The specific assignment of this city from the tribe H4294 of Zebulun H2074 to the families H4940 of Merari H4847 demonstrates the meticulous and orderly fulfillment of God's instructions for settling the promised land.
- A Lasting Remnant: Kartah was allocated to "the rest" H3498 of the Levites, referring to the Merarite families. This highlights the theme of a remnant being preserved and provided for according to divine promise Isaiah 1:9.
In summary, H7177 Qartâh is more than just a place name on a map. While appearing only once, its significance is tied to the critical biblical narrative of the land allotment. It serves as a specific proof point of God's faithfulness in providing for the priestly tribe of Levi and in establishing every family of Israel in its designated place according to His divine plan.
TRV