Joshua 13:20

And Bethpeor, and Ashdothpisgah, and Bethjeshimoth,

And Bethpeor {H1047}, and Ashdothpisgah {H798}{H794}, and Bethjeshimoth {H1020},

Beit-P'or, the slopes of Pisgah, Beit-Yeshimot,

Beth-peor, the slopes of Pisgah, and Beth-jeshimoth—

and Beth-peor, and the slopes of Pisgah, and Beth-jeshimoth,

Commentary

Context

Joshua 13 begins with God instructing Joshua to divide the remaining land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel, even though much territory was yet to be conquered. This chapter focuses on the inheritance given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, whose portions were east of the Jordan River. This distribution was initiated by Moses before his death, as recorded in Deuteronomy 3:16-17 and reiterated in Joshua 13:8. Verse 20 specifically lists three towns – Bethpeor, Ashdothpisgah, and Bethjeshimoth – as part of the territory allocated to the tribe of Reuben, detailing the precise boundaries and cities within their inheritance.

Key Themes

  • Fulfillment of God's Promises: The meticulous listing of towns and boundaries underscores the faithful fulfillment of God's ancient promise to Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land (Genesis 12:7).
  • Divine Order and Specificity: The detailed geographical descriptions highlight God's precise and orderly nature in orchestrating the division of the land, ensuring each tribe received its designated portion.
  • Tribal Inheritance: This verse, like others in Joshua 13, emphasizes the distinct and divinely appointed inheritance for each of Israel's tribes, establishing their territorial identity within the Promised Land.

Linguistic Insights

The names of these locations carry historical and geographical significance:

  • Bethpeor: Meaning "house of Peor," this place is infamous in Israel's history. It was near here that Israel committed idolatry and sexual immorality with the Moabite women, worshipping Baal-peor, leading to a plague that killed 24,000 (Numbers 25:3). Its inclusion in Reuben's territory serves as a historical marker.
  • Ashdothpisgah: Translates to "slopes of Pisgah." Mount Pisgah was a prominent peak in the Abarim mountain range from which Moses was permitted to view the entire Promised Land before his death (Deuteronomy 34:1). This name links Reuben's inheritance to a site of profound significance in Israel's journey.
  • Bethjeshimoth: Meaning "house of deserts" or "house of desolations," suggesting its location in a more arid or desolate region, likely near the wilderness.

Significance and Application

While a list of ancient place names, Joshua 13:20 offers several points of reflection:

  • God's Faithfulness in Detail: It reminds us that God's promises are not vague but are fulfilled with precise and tangible details. Just as He provided a physical inheritance for Israel, He provides for His people today, often in ways that are specific and tailored to their needs.
  • Remembering History: The inclusion of places like Bethpeor serves as a subtle reminder of past failures and triumphs, urging future generations to learn from history. This applies to our own spiritual journeys, where remembering God's faithfulness and our past struggles can guide us.
  • Understanding Our Inheritance: For the believer, our inheritance is not a physical plot of land but a spiritual one in Christ. Just as the tribes received their allotted portions, believers are given spiritual blessings and a place in God's kingdom (Ephesians 1:3). This verse encourages us to appreciate the specific and rich inheritance we have in Him.
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Cross-References

  • Joshua 12:3 (3 votes)

    And from the plain to the sea of Chinneroth on the east, and unto the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea on the east, the way to Bethjeshimoth; and from the south, under Ashdothpisgah:

  • Deuteronomy 4:46 (3 votes)

    On this side Jordan, in the valley over against Bethpeor, in the land of Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt at Heshbon, whom Moses and the children of Israel smote, after they were come forth out of Egypt:

  • Ezekiel 25:9 (2 votes)

    Therefore, behold, I will open the side of Moab from the cities, from his cities [which are] on his frontiers, the glory of the country, Bethjeshimoth, Baalmeon, and Kiriathaim,

  • Numbers 25:3 (2 votes)

    And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.

  • Deuteronomy 3:17 (2 votes)

    The plain also, and Jordan, and the coast [thereof], from Chinnereth even unto the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward.

  • Numbers 33:49 (2 votes)

    And they pitched by Jordan, from Bethjesimoth [even] unto Abelshittim in the plains of Moab.