Joshua 18:20

On the east side the border was the Jordan. These were the borders around the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin.

Study Bible

The Jordan
The Jordan River is a significant geographical and spiritual landmark in the Bible. In Hebrew, "Jordan" means "descender," reflecting the river's descent from the mountains of Lebanon to the Dead Sea. The Jordan River symbolizes transition and transformation, as it was the site where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land (Joshua 3:14-17) and where Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:13-17). It represents a boundary between the wilderness and the fulfillment of God's promises, marking a new beginning for the Israelites.

bordered it on the east
The phrase indicates the eastern boundary of the land allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. In biblical times, borders were crucial for defining tribal territories and maintaining peace among the tribes of Israel. The eastward border along the Jordan River provided a natural defense and a source of water, essential for agriculture and sustaining life. This boundary also signifies God's provision and order, as He meticulously allocated the land among the tribes, ensuring each had its rightful inheritance.

This was the inheritance
The concept of "inheritance" in the Bible goes beyond mere possession of land; it signifies a divine gift and a fulfillment of God's covenant promises. The Hebrew word for inheritance, "nachalah," implies a heritage or legacy passed down through generations. For the Israelites, receiving their inheritance was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and a reminder of their identity as His chosen people. It underscores the importance of stewardship and the responsibility to honor God's gift by living according to His commandments.

of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin
The tribe of Benjamin, named after Jacob's youngest son, holds a unique place in Israel's history. Despite being the smallest tribe (1 Samuel 9:21), Benjamin produced significant leaders, including King Saul and the Apostle Paul. The allocation of land to Benjamin's clans reflects God's sovereign plan and the diversity within His people. Each clan received a portion of the inheritance, emphasizing the communal aspect of God's blessings and the unity among the tribes.

according to its borders
The phrase highlights the precision and orderliness of God's distribution of the land. Each tribe's inheritance was defined by specific borders, ensuring clarity and preventing disputes. This meticulous division underscores God's attention to detail and His desire for harmony among His people. It also serves as a reminder that God's promises are not vague or arbitrary but are fulfilled with exactness and purpose. The borders symbolize the boundaries within which the tribes were to flourish, cultivate the land, and worship God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel who succeeded Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land. He is responsible for dividing the land among the tribes.

2. Tribe of Benjamin
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel. This tribe's inheritance is being described in this passage.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical landmark in Israel, serving as the eastern border for the tribe of Benjamin's inheritance.

4. Inheritance
The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel as promised by God. This was a fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham. The division of this land among the tribes is a key event in the book of Joshua.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
The division of the land among the tribes is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Believers can trust in God's promises for their lives.

Importance of Boundaries
The specific mention of borders underscores the importance of boundaries in our lives, both physically and spiritually. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial for maintaining order and peace.

Inheritance in Christ
Just as the tribes received a physical inheritance, believers have a spiritual inheritance in Christ. Reflect on what it means to be co-heirs with Christ.

Community and Identity
The allocation of land to the tribe of Benjamin highlights the importance of community and identity within the body of Christ. Each member has a unique role and place.

Obedience and Stewardship
Receiving the land was not just a gift but a responsibility. Believers are called to be good stewards of what God has entrusted to them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to the tribe of Benjamin demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can setting boundaries in our personal lives reflect the order and structure seen in the division of the Promised Land?

3. How does understanding our spiritual inheritance in Christ impact the way we live our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the tribe of Benjamin about community and identity within the church?

5. How can we apply the principles of obedience and stewardship seen in the Israelites' inheritance to our own lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15
God's covenant with Abraham, promising the land to his descendants, is foundational to understanding the significance of the land inheritance in Joshua.

Numbers 34
Provides details on the boundaries of the Promised Land, which helps contextualize the specific borders mentioned in Joshua.

Deuteronomy 34
Describes Moses viewing the Promised Land, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises through Joshua's leadership.

Judges 1
Chronicles the challenges the tribes faced in fully possessing their allotted territories, including the tribe of Benjamin.