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Joshua 15:3

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And it went out to the south side to Maalehacrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and ascended up on the south side unto Kadeshbarnea, and passed along to Hezron, and went up to Adar, and fetched a compass to Karkaa:

And it went out {H3318} to the south side {H5045} to Maalehacrabbim {H4610}, and passed {H5674} along to Zin {H6790}, and ascended up {H5927} on the south side {H5045} unto Kadeshbarnea {H6947}, and passed {H5674} along to Hezron {H2696}, and went up {H5927} to Adar {H146}, and fetched a compass {H5437} to Karkaa {H7173}:

and went out south of the Scorpion Ascent, passed toward Tzin, went up south of Kadesh-Barnea, passed Hetzron, went up toward Adar, turned toward Karka,

proceeded south of the Ascent of Akrabbim, continued on to Zin, went over to the south of Kadesh-barnea, ran past Hezron up to Addar, and curved toward Karka.

and it went out southward of the ascent of Akrabbim, and passed along to Zin, and went up by the south of Kadesh-barnea, and passed along by Hezron, and went up to Addar, and turned about to Karka;

Commentary

Joshua 15:3 details a segment of the southern boundary of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah, outlining the precise geographical markers that defined their inheritance in the land of Canaan. This verse, along with others in the chapter, emphasizes the meticulous fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land distribution among the Israelite tribes after their conquest under Joshua.

Context

Chapter 15 of Joshua is dedicated entirely to describing the boundaries and cities belonging to the tribe of Judah, the largest and most prominent of the tribes. Following the initial conquest of Canaan, the land was divided by lot among the tribes, as commanded by God. These detailed geographical descriptions served as legal documents, defining each tribe's specific inheritance and preventing future disputes. This particular verse traces the southern border from west to east, moving through significant historical and topographical points.

Key Themes

  • Divine Precision and Fulfillment: The meticulous listing of geographical points underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants concerning the land. Every detail of the inheritance was divinely appointed and precisely marked.
  • The Importance of Boundaries: In ancient societies, clear land boundaries were crucial for identity, security, and economic stability. For Israel, these boundaries also represented the extent of their God-given possession and responsibility.
  • Judah's Inheritance: This verse highlights the vastness and specific nature of the territory assigned to Judah, a tribe destined for leadership (see Genesis 49:10).

Linguistic Insights

  • Maalehacrabbim: This name literally means "the Ascent of Akrabbim" or "the Ascent of Scorpions." It refers to a steep, rugged pass, likely named for its serpentine path or the presence of scorpions, marking a natural geographical feature on the border.
  • Zin: This refers to the Wilderness of Zin, a desolate desert region south of Canaan and east of the Wilderness of Paran. It was a significant area during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings.
  • Kadeshbarnea: A profoundly important site in Israelite history, where the Israelites spent a significant portion of their forty years of wandering due to their unbelief and rebellion against God (Numbers 13-14). Its inclusion in the boundary line confirms its location as a southern extremity of Israelite territory.

Related Scriptures

This verse is part of the broader narrative of the division of the land by lot among the tribes, fulfilling God's promise to Israel. The mention of Kadeshbarnea connects to the earlier history of the Exodus generation, particularly their rebellion and the subsequent judgment, as detailed in the book of Numbers.

Practical Application

While a geographical description, Joshua 15:3 carries spiritual weight. It reminds us of God's meticulous care and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Just as God precisely delineated the physical inheritance for Judah, He also provides a spiritual inheritance for believers today. This inheritance is clearly defined in His Word, offering security, purpose, and blessing. It encourages us to understand and appreciate the boundaries and blessings God has established in our lives, trusting in His perfect plan and provision.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Numbers 34:4 (5 votes)

    And your border shall turn from the south to the ascent of Akrabbim, and pass on to Zin: and the going forth thereof shall be from the south to Kadeshbarnea, and shall go on to Hazaraddar, and pass on to Azmon:

  • Judges 1:36 (3 votes)

    And the coast of the Amorites [was] from the going up to Akrabbim, from the rock, and upward.

  • Numbers 32:8 (2 votes)

    Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadeshbarnea to see the land.

  • Numbers 20:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then came the children of Israel, [even] the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there.

  • Genesis 14:7 (2 votes)

    And they returned, and came to Enmishpat, which [is] Kadesh, and smote all the country of the Amalekites, and also the Amorites, that dwelt in Hazezontamar.