Gederoth, Beth-dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah--sixteen cities, along with their villages. GederothThe name "Gederoth" is derived from the Hebrew root "gadar," meaning "to wall" or "to enclose." This suggests a fortified city, indicative of the need for protection and defense in ancient times. Archaeologically, such cities were often surrounded by walls to safeguard against invaders. Spiritually, this can symbolize the protective nature of God’s presence in the lives of believers, serving as a reminder of the divine fortification available to those who trust in Him. Beth-dagon
"Beth-dagon" translates to "house of Dagon," referring to a place dedicated to the Philistine god Dagon. This highlights the religious diversity and the presence of pagan worship in the region. Historically, the Israelites were often in conflict with the Philistines, and the mention of Beth-dagon underscores the spiritual battles faced by the Israelites. For Christians, this serves as a reminder of the call to remain steadfast in faith amidst a world of competing ideologies and beliefs. Naamah
The name "Naamah" means "pleasant" or "beautiful" in Hebrew. This city’s name reflects the beauty and goodness that can be found in God’s creation. It serves as a reminder of the blessings and the aesthetic richness that God provides. In a spiritual sense, believers are encouraged to seek and appreciate the beauty in God’s world, recognizing His handiwork in all things. Makkedah
"Makkedah" is known historically as a site of significant biblical events, particularly in Joshua 10, where the five Amorite kings hid in a cave. The name itself may mean "place of shepherds" or "herding place," indicating a pastoral setting. This city’s history is a testament to God’s deliverance and justice, as the Israelites achieved victory over their enemies. It serves as an inspiration for believers to trust in God’s power to overcome obstacles and adversaries. sixteen cities, along with their villages
The phrase "sixteen cities, along with their villages" emphasizes the extent of the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. It reflects the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding the land for his descendants. Historically, this allocation of land was crucial for the establishment of the Israelite nation. Spiritually, it signifies God’s faithfulness in providing for His people and the importance of community and shared heritage among believers. The mention of both cities and villages highlights the diversity and richness of life within God’s provision, encouraging Christians to value both urban and rural expressions of community and faith. Persons / Places / Events 1. GederothA town in the territory of Judah, mentioned in the context of the allotment of land to the tribe. Its name means "walls" or "enclosures," indicating a fortified place. 2. Beth-dagonA town named after the Philistine god Dagon, indicating the cultural and religious influences in the region. It highlights the presence of pagan worship in the land that Israel was to conquer and purify. 3. NaamahA town in the lowlands of Judah. The name means "pleasant" or "beautiful," suggesting a desirable location. 4. MakkedahKnown for the cave where the five Amorite kings hid and were later executed by Joshua (Joshua 10). It signifies a place of victory and divine intervention. 5. Sixteen CitiesThe verse mentions a total of sixteen cities, emphasizing the extent of the land allotted to Judah and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness in FulfillmentThe detailed listing of cities in Joshua 15:41 is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. Believers can trust in God's promises for their lives. Cultural and Spiritual ChallengesThe presence of places like Beth-dagon reminds us of the cultural and spiritual challenges the Israelites faced. Christians today must be vigilant against cultural influences that contradict biblical values. Victory through ObedienceMakkedah serves as a reminder that victory comes through obedience to God's commands. Believers are called to trust and obey God, even when facing formidable challenges. Inheritance and StewardshipThe allocation of land to Judah underscores the concept of inheritance and stewardship. Christians are called to be good stewards of the spiritual and material blessings God has entrusted to them. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the mention of specific cities in Joshua 15:41 demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life. 2. What cultural or spiritual challenges do you face today that are similar to the presence of pagan influences in the land of Judah? How can you address these challenges biblically? 3. In what ways does the account of Makkedah in Joshua 10 inspire you to trust in God's power and provision in your own battles? 4. How can the concept of inheritance and stewardship in the allocation of land to Judah be applied to your life as a believer today? 5. Reflect on the connection between Joshua 15:41 and Genesis 15. How does understanding God's covenant with Abraham enhance your understanding of His promises to you? Connections to Other Scriptures Joshua 10Makkedah is significant in the account of Joshua's military campaigns, where God delivered the Amorite kings into Israel's hands, demonstrating His power and faithfulness. Judges 1The ongoing struggle to fully possess the land and drive out the remaining Canaanites, highlighting the need for obedience and reliance on God. Genesis 15The promise to Abraham about the land, showing the fulfillment of God's covenant through the allotment of territories to the tribes of Israel. People Achsah, Addar, Ahiman, Anak, Anakites, Arba, Ben, Bohan, Cain, Caleb, Dagon, Debir, Dumah, Eder, Eglon, Ephron, Gad, Gedor, Hezron, Hoglah, Jebusites, Jephunneh, Jezreel, Joshua, Kenaz, Maon, Naamah, Othniel, Pelet, Reuben, Seir, Shamir, Shema, Sheshai, Shual, Talmai, Tappuah, Telem, Timnah, ZurPlaces Achzib, Adadah, Addar, Adullam, Adummim, Ain, Akrabbim, Amam, Anab, Anim, Aphekah, Arab, Ashan, Ashdod, Ashnah, Azekah, Baalah, Bealoth, Beersheba, Beth-anoth, Beth-arabah, Beth-dagan, Beth-hoglah, Beth-pelet, Beth-shemesh, Beth-tappuah, Beth-zur, Biziothiah, Bozkath, Brook of Egypt, Cabbon, Carmel, Chesalon, Chesil, Chitlish, City of Salt, Dannah, Debir, Dilean, Dimonah, Dumah, Eder, Edom, Eglon, Ekron, Eltekon, Eltolad, Enam, En-gannim, Engedi, En-rogel, En-shemesh, Eshan, Eshtaol, Eshtemoh, Ether, Ezem, Gaza, Gederah, Gederoth, Gederothaim, Gedor, Gibeah, Gilgal, Giloh, Great Sea, Hadashah, Halhul, Hazar-gaddah, Hazar-shual, Hazor, Hazor-hadattah, Hebron, Heshmon, Hezron, Holon, Hormah, Humtah, Iim, Iphtah, Ithnan, Jabneel, Jagur, Janim, Jarmuth, Jattir, Jebus, Jerusalem, Jokdeam, Joktheel, Jordan River, Juttah, Kabzeel, Kadesh-barnea, Kain, Keilah, Kerioth-hezron, Kinah, Kiriath-arba, Kiriath-baal, Kiriath-jearim, Kiriath-sannah, Kiriath-sepher, Lachish, Lahmam, Lebaoth, Libnah, Maarath, Madmannah, Makkedah, Maon, Mareshah, Middin, Migdal-gad, Mizpeh, Moladah, Mount Baalah, Mount Ephron, Mount Jearim, Mount Seir, Negeb, Nephtoah, Nezib, Nibshan, Rabbah, Rimmon, Salt Sea, Sansannah, Secacah, Shaaraim, Shamir, Shema, Shikkeron, Shilhim, Socoh, Tappuah, Telem, Timnah, Valley of Achor, Valley of Hinnom, Valley of Rephaim, Zanoah, Zenan, Ziklag, Zin, Zior, Ziph, ZorahTopics Beth, Bethdagon, Beth-dagon, Beth-da'gon, Cities, Dagon, Gederoth, Gede'roth, Hamlets, Makkedah, Makke'dah, Naamah, Na'amah, Places, Sixteen, Towns, Unwalled, VillagesDictionary of Bible Themes Joshua 15:1-63 5235 boundary
7266 tribes of Israel Library The Sea of Sodom
The bounds of Judea, on both sides, are the sea; the western bound is the Mediterranean,--the eastern, the Dead sea, or the sea of Sodom. This the Jewish writers every where call, which you may not so properly interpret here, "the salt sea," as "the bituminous sea." In which sense word for word, "Sodom's salt," but properly "Sodom's bitumen," doth very frequently occur among them. The use of it was in the holy incense. They mingled 'bitumen,' 'the amber of Jordan,' and [an herb known to few], with …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and HebraicaTiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire from 745 to 722 B. C.
TIGLATH-PILESER III. AND THE ORGANISATION OF THE ASSYRIAN EMPIRE FROM 745 to 722 B.C. FAILURE OF URARTU AND RE-CONQUEST Of SYRIA--EGYPT AGAIN UNITED UNDER ETHIOPIAN AUSPICES--PIONKHI--THE DOWNFALL OF DAMASCUS, OF BABYLON, AND OF ISRAEL. Assyria and its neighbours at the accession of Tiglath-pileser III.: progress of the Aramaeans in the basin of the Middle Tigris--Urartu and its expansion into the north of Syria--Damascus and Israel--Vengeance of Israel on Damascus--Jeroboam II.--Civilisation …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7 John the Baptist --visit of Jesus to John, and his Abode in the Desert of Judea --Adoption of the Baptism of John.
An extraordinary man, whose position, from the absence of documentary evidence, remains to us in some degree enigmatical, appeared about this time, and was unquestionably to some extent connected with Jesus. This connection tended rather to make the young prophet of Nazareth deviate from his path; but it suggested many important accessories to his religious institution, and, at all events, furnished a very strong authority to his disciples in recommending their Master in the eyes of a certain class …
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus Divers Matters.
I. Beth-cerem, Nehemiah 3:14. "The stones, as well of the altar, as of the ascent to the altar, were from the valley of Beth-cerem, which they digged out beneath the barren land. And thence they are wont to bring whole stones, upon which the working iron came not." The fathers of the traditions, treating concerning the blood of women's terms, reckon up five colours of it; among which that, "which is like the water of the earth, out of the valley of Beth-cerem."--Where the Gloss writes thus, "Beth-cerem …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Epistle xxvi. To Theoctista, Patrician
To Theoctista, Patrician [1704] Gregory to Theoctista, &c. That your Excellency, though placed in so great a tumult of affairs, is full of the fruitfulness of the sacred word, and incessantly pants after eternal joys, for this I give great thanks to Almighty God, in that in you I see fulfilled what is written of the elect fathers, But the children of Israel walked on dry land through the midst of the sea (Exod. xv. 19). But on the other hand, I am come into the depth of the sea, and the storm hath …
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great Emmaus. Kiriath-Jearim.
"From Beth-horon to Emmaus it was hilly."--It was sixty furlongs distant from Jerusalem.--"To eight hundred only, dismissed the army, (Vespasian) gave a place, called Ammaus, for them to inhabit: it is sixty furlongs distant from Jerusalem." I inquire, whether this word hath the same etymology with Emmaus near Tiberias, which, from the 'warm baths,' was called Chammath. The Jews certainly do write this otherwise... "The family (say they) of Beth-Pegarim, and Beth Zipperia was out of Emmaus."--The …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica The Coast of the Asphaltites, the Essenes. En-Gedi.
"On the western shore" (of the Asphaltites) "dwell the Essenes; whom persons, guilty of any crimes, fly from on every side. A nation it is that lives alone, and of all other nations in the whole world, most to be admired; they are without any woman; all lust banished, &c. Below these, was the town Engadda, the next to Jerusalem for fruitfulness, and groves of palm-trees, now another burying-place. From thence stands Massada, a castle in a rock, and this castle not far from the Asphaltites." Solinus, …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah
"And thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, too little to be among the thousands of Judah, out of thee shall come forth unto Me (one) [Pg 480] to be Ruler in Israel; and His goings forth are the times of old, the days of eternity." The close connection of this verse with what immediately precedes (Caspari is wrong in considering iv. 9-14 as an episode) is evident, not only from the [Hebrew: v] copulative, and from the analogy of the near relation of the announcement of salvation to the prophecy of disaster …
Ernst Wilhelm Hengstenberg—Christology of the Old Testament Moses and his Writings
[Illustration: (drop cap W) Clay letter tablet of Moses' time.] We now begin to understand a little of the very beginning of God's Book--of the times in which it was written, the materials used by its first author, and the different kinds of writing from which he had to choose; but we must go a step farther. How much did Moses know about the history of his forefathers, Abraham and Jacob, and of all the old nations and kings mentioned in Genesis, before God called him to the great work of writing …
Mildred Duff—The Bible in its Making The Power of Assyria at Its Zenith; Esarhaddon and Assur-Bani-Pal
The Medes and Cimmerians: Lydia--The conquest of Egypt, of Arabia, and of Elam. As we have already seen, Sennacherib reigned for eight years after his triumph; eight years of tranquillity at home, and of peace with all his neighbours abroad. If we examine the contemporary monuments or the documents of a later period, and attempt to glean from them some details concerning the close of his career, we find that there is a complete absence of any record of national movement on the part of either Elam, …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8 Some Helps to Mourning
Having removed the obstructions, let me in the last place propound some helps to holy mourning. 1 Set David's prospect continually before you. My sin is ever before me' (Psalm 51:3). David, that he might be a mourner, kept his eye full upon sin. See what sin is, and then tell me if there be not enough in it to draw forth tears. I know not what name to give it bad enough. One calls it the devil's excrement. Sin is a complication of all evils. It is the spirits of mischief distilled. Sin dishonours …
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12 Sennacherib (705-681 B. C. )
The struggle of Sennacherib with Judaea and Egypt--Destruction of Babylon. Sennacherib either failed to inherit his father's good fortune, or lacked his ability.* He was not deficient in military genius, nor in the energy necessary to withstand the various enemies who rose against him at widely removed points of his frontier, but he had neither the adaptability of character nor the delicate tact required to manage successfully the heterogeneous elements combined under his sway. * The two principal …
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 8 Kadesh. Rekam, and that Double. Inquiry is Made, Whether the Doubling it in the Maps is Well Done.
The readers of the eastern interpreters will observe, that Kadesh is rendered by all Rekam, or in a sound very near it. In the Chaldee, it is 'Rekam': in the Syriac, 'Rekem': in the Arabic, 'Rakim'... There are two places noted by the name Rekam in the very bounds of the land,--to wit, the southern and eastern: that is, a double Kadesh. I. Of Kadesh, or Rekam, in the south part, there is no doubt. II. Of it, in the eastern part, there is this mention: "From Rekam to the east, and Rekam is as the …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Joshua
The book of Joshua is the natural complement of the Pentateuch. Moses is dead, but the people are on the verge of the promised land, and the story of early Israel would be incomplete, did it not record the conquest of that land and her establishment upon it. The divine purpose moves restlessly on, until it is accomplished; so "after the death of Moses, Jehovah spake to Joshua," i. 1. The book falls naturally into three divisions: (a) the conquest of Canaan (i.-xii.), (b) the settlement of the …
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament Links Joshua 15:41 NIVJoshua 15:41 NLTJoshua 15:41 ESVJoshua 15:41 NASBJoshua 15:41 KJV
Joshua 15:41 Commentaries
Bible Hub |
