Joshua 14:15

(Hebron used to be called Kiriath-arba, after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim.) Then the land had rest from war.

Study Bible

Hebron used to be called Kiriath-arba
The name "Hebron" is significant in biblical history, often associated with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The city is one of the oldest in the world, with archaeological evidence supporting its ancient origins. "Kiriath-arba" means "City of Arba," named after Arba, a notable figure among the Anakim, a race of giants mentioned in the Bible. This renaming signifies a transformation from a place associated with giants to a city of inheritance for God's people, symbolizing the triumph of faith over fear.

after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim
Arba is described as the greatest among the Anakim, a group of formidable people known for their size and strength. The Anakim were often seen as obstacles to the Israelites, representing challenges and fears that needed to be overcome. The mention of Arba highlights the significance of Hebron's conquest, as it was a victory over one of the most daunting adversaries. This victory serves as a testament to God's power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel.

Then the land had rest from war
This phrase marks a period of peace following the conquest of Canaan. The "rest from war" is not just a cessation of physical battles but also a spiritual rest, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His people in the land. It reflects the biblical theme of rest as a divine gift, echoing the Sabbath rest and pointing forward to the ultimate rest found in Christ. This rest is a reminder of God's sovereignty and the peace that comes from trusting in His provision and timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hebron
A significant city in the biblical account, Hebron is located in the hill country of Judah. It is historically important as the place where Abraham settled and later became a city of refuge.

2. Kiriath-arba
The former name of Hebron, meaning "City of Arba." Arba was considered the greatest among the Anakim, a race of giants in the land.

3. Arba
Known as the greatest man among the Anakim, Arba was a notable figure whose legacy was significant enough to have a city named after him.

4. Anakim
A race of giants mentioned in the Old Testament, known for their formidable size and strength. They were inhabitants of Canaan before the Israelites took possession of the land.

5. Rest from War
This phrase signifies a period of peace and stability in the land after the conquest, highlighting God's fulfillment of His promise to give Israel rest.

Teaching Points

Significance of Hebron
Hebron's transformation from Kiriath-arba to a city of refuge symbolizes God's redemptive work in transforming places and people for His purposes.

Overcoming Giants
The mention of the Anakim serves as a reminder that God empowers His people to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges through faith and obedience.

Peace as a Divine Gift
The rest from war illustrates the peace that comes from trusting in God's promises and His timing. It encourages believers to seek God's peace in their lives.

Legacy and Influence
Arba's legacy as the greatest among the Anakim contrasts with the legacy of faith left by Caleb, who inherited Hebron. This challenges us to consider the legacy we are building.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the transformation of Hebron from Kiriath-arba signify about God's work in our lives today?

2. How can the account of the Anakim and their defeat encourage us in facing our own "giants"?

3. In what ways can we experience God's rest in our daily lives, as the Israelites did after their conquest?

4. How does the legacy of Arba compare to the legacy of Caleb, and what can we learn from this about the impact of our faith?

5. How does the concept of rest in Joshua 14:15 connect to the spiritual rest described in Hebrews 4, and how can we apply this to our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 23
Connects to Hebron as the place where Abraham purchased a burial site for Sarah, establishing its significance in the patriarchal accounts.

Numbers 13
The Anakim are mentioned as part of the report by the spies sent by Moses, emphasizing the fear they instilled in the Israelites.

Judges 1
Describes the continued conquest and settlement of the land, including Hebron, by the tribes of Israel.

Hebrews 4
Discusses the concept of rest, drawing a parallel between the physical rest from war in Joshua and the spiritual rest offered through faith in Christ.