Joshua 19:16
This was the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Zebulun, including these cities and their villages.
This was the inheritance
The term "inheritance" in the Hebrew context is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which signifies a possession or property passed down through generations. In the biblical narrative, inheritance is not merely a transfer of land but a divine allotment. It underscores God's covenantal promise to the Israelites, where each tribe receives a portion of the Promised Land. This inheritance is a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and a reminder of the spiritual heritage that the Israelites are to uphold.

of the clans
The word "clans" refers to "מִשְׁפָּחוֹת" (mishpachot) in Hebrew, indicating extended family units within the tribe. The division of land among clans highlights the importance of family and community in Israelite society. It reflects the organizational structure ordained by God, ensuring that each family unit has a stake in the land, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility. This distribution also emphasizes the communal aspect of God's blessings, where each clan plays a role in the larger narrative of God's people.

of the tribe of Zebulun
Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, is named after the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe's name, "זְבוּלֻן" (Zebulun), is often associated with the idea of dwelling or honor. Historically, Zebulun's territory was strategically located, providing access to trade routes and the sea, which fulfilled Jacob's blessing in Genesis 49:13 about Zebulun dwelling by the seashore. This positioning not only had economic implications but also symbolized the tribe's role in connecting Israel with the broader world, serving as a testament to God's providence and strategic planning.

including these cities and their villages
The mention of "cities and their villages" indicates the specific settlements within Zebulun's inheritance. In ancient Israel, cities were centers of administration, commerce, and worship, while villages were agricultural hubs. This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the inheritance, encompassing both urban and rural areas, ensuring the tribe's economic and social stability. It reflects God's provision for all aspects of life, from governance to daily sustenance, and highlights the importance of community life in fulfilling God's purposes for His people.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Zebulunites
The descendants of Zebulun, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Zebulun was the sixth son of Jacob and Leah. The tribe of Zebulun was allotted a portion of land in Canaan as part of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel.

2. Inheritance
Refers to the portion of land allocated to the tribe of Zebulun. In the context of the Israelites, inheritance was not just a physical possession but also a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land.

3. Sarid
A location marking the boundary of the Zebulunites' inheritance. The exact location of Sarid is not definitively known today, but it served as a geographical marker in the biblical account.
Teaching Points
God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to the Zebulunites is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. Believers can trust in God's promises and His timing.

The Importance of Inheritance
Inheritance in the biblical sense is not just about land but about identity and purpose. Christians are reminded of their spiritual inheritance in Christ, which includes eternal life and a place in God's kingdom.

Community and Identity
The division of land among the tribes underscores the importance of community and identity within God's people. Believers are encouraged to find their place and purpose within the body of Christ.

Boundaries and Contentment
The specific boundaries given to each tribe teach the value of contentment with what God provides. Christians are called to be content and faithful stewards of their God-given resources and opportunities.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does the allocation of land to the Zebulunites demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life.

2. In what ways does the concept of inheritance in the Old Testament relate to our spiritual inheritance in Christ? How can this understanding impact your daily walk with God?

3. How does the identity and role of the tribe of Zebulun within Israel encourage us to find our place and purpose within the church today?

4. What lessons can we learn from the specific boundaries given to the tribes of Israel about contentment and stewardship in our own lives?

5. How can the account of the Zebulunites inspire us to respond to God's call to action, as they did in the time of Judges? Consider how you can actively participate in God's work in your community.
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 49:13
Jacob's blessing to Zebulun, where he prophesies that Zebulun will dwell by the seashore and be a haven for ships. This connects to the allocation of land in Joshua, showing the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing.

Deuteronomy 33:18-19
Moses' blessing to Zebulun and Issachar, highlighting their joy and prosperity in their allotted land. This passage emphasizes the importance of the land as a source of blessing and sustenance.

Judges 4:10
The tribe of Zebulun is mentioned as one of the tribes that responded to Barak's call to fight against Sisera, demonstrating their role in the collective defense and unity of Israel.
A Too Extensive Earthly PortionW. Seaton.Joshua 19:1-51
Self the Last to be ConsideredW. Seaton, M. A.Joshua 19:1-51
The Leader DisinterestedW. G. Blaikie, D. D.Joshua 19:1-51
People
Allon, Anath, Asher, Dagon, Dan, Danites, Eleazar, Elon, Heleb, Hepher, Hosah, Israelites, Issachar, Japhia, Jezreel, Joshua, Naphtali, Nun, Rehob, Serah, Shema, Shimron, Shual, Simeon, Simeonites, Timnah, Zebulun, Zidon
Places
Achshaph, Achzib, Adami-nekeb, Aijalon, Ain, Allammelech, Amad, Anaharath, Aphek, Ashan, Aznoth-tabor, Baalath, Baalath-beer, Balah, Beersheba, Bene-berak, Beten, Beth-anath, Beth-dagan, Beth-emek, Beth-lebaoth, Bethlehem, Beth-marcaboth, Beth-pazzez, Beth-shemesh, Bethul, Cabul, Carmel, Chesulloth, Chinnereth, Chisloth-tabor, Dabbesheth, Daberath, Dan, Ebez, Ebron, Edrei, Ekron, Elon, Eltekeh, Eltolad, En-gannim, En-haddah, Eshtaol, Ether, Ezem, Gath-hepher, Gath-rimmon, Gibbethon, Gibeah, Hali, Hammath, Hammon, Hannathon, Hapharaim, Hazar-shual, Hazar-susah, Hazor, Heleph, Helkath, Horem, Hormah, Hosah, Hukkok, Idalah, Ir-shemesh, Ithlah, Jabneel, Japhia, Jehud, Jezreel, Jokneam, Joppa, Jordan River, Kanah, Kattath, Kedesh, Kishion, Lakkum, Leshem, Mahalab, Me-jarkon, Migdal-el, Mishal, Moladah, Nahalal, Neah, Negeb, Neiel, Rabbith, Rakkath, Rakkon, Ramah, Rehob, Remeth, Rimmon, Sarid, Shaalabbin, Shahazumah, Sharuhen, Sheba, Shiloh, Shimron, Shion, Shunem, Sidon the Great, Tabor, Timnah, Timnath-serah, Tyre, Ummah, Valley of Iphtahel, Yiron, Zaanannim, Zer, Ziddim, Ziklag, Zorah
Topics
Cities, Clan, Families, Hamlets, Heritage, Inheritance, Places, Sons, Towns, Tribe, Unwalled, Villages, Zebulun, Zeb'ulun
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Joshua 19:1-47

     7266   tribes of Israel

Joshua 19:1-48

     5235   boundary

Library
Tiberias.
All the Jews declare, almost with one consent, that this was a fortified city from ancient times, even from the days of Joshua, and was the same with Rakkath, of which mention is made, Joshua 19:35. "Rakkath is Tiberias," say the Jerusalem Gemarists. And those of Babylon say the same, and that more largely: "It is clear to us that Rakkath is Tiberias." And when, after a few lines, this of Rabbi Jochanan was objected, "When I was a boy, I said a certain thing, concerning which I asked the elders,
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Chammath. Ammaus. The Warm Baths of Tiberias.
Chammath and Rakkath are joined together, Joshua 19:35. For they were very neighbouring cities; Rakkath is Tiberias,--and Chammath, the town Ammaus, in Josephus. Of their neighbourhood, the Jerusalem Talmudists write thus: "The men of a great city may walk" (on the sabbath) "through a whole small city" (which was within a sabbath-day's journey); "but the inhabitants of a small city walk not through a whole great city." And then follows, "Formerly the men of Tiberias walked through all Chammath; but
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Some Other Towns Near Tiberias. Beth-Meon. Caphar Chittaia. Paltathah.
Among the towns, neighbouring upon Tiberias, Tarichee is especially commemorated in Josephus, a city thirty furlongs distant from Tiberias: you will find in him the history and mention of it very frequent. In the Talmudists we meet with other names also. I. Beth-Meon. "The men of Tiberias, who went up to Beth-Meon to be hired for workmen, were hired according to the custom of Beth-Meon: the men of Beth-Meon, who went down to Tiberias to be hired, were hired according to the custom of Tiberias." This
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

Eastern Wise-Men, or Magi, visit Jesus, the New-Born King.
(Jerusalem and Bethlehem, b.c. 4.) ^A Matt. II. 1-12. ^a 1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem [It lies five miles south by west of Jerusalem, a little to the east of the road to Hebron. It occupies part of the summit and sides of a narrow limestone ridge which shoots out eastward from the central chains of the Judæan mountains, and breaks down abruptly into deep valleys on the north, south, and east. Its old name, Ephrath, meant "the fruitful." Bethlehem means "house of bread." Its modern
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Within what Tribe the Lake of Gennesaret Was.
By comparing the maps with the Talmudic writers, this question ariseth: for there is not one among them, as far as I know, which does not altogether define the sea of Gennesaret to be without the tribe of Naphthali; but the Talmudists do most plainly place it within. "The Rabbins deliver: The sea of Tiberias is in the portion of Naphtali; yea, it takes a full line for the nets on the south side of it: as it is said, 'Possess the sea and the south,' Deuteronomy 33:23." The Gloss is; "(Naphtali) had
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

The First Sign --The Marriage in Cana.
"And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: and Jesus also was bidden, and His disciples, to the marriage. And when the wine failed, the mother of Jesus saith unto Him, They have no wine. And Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? Mine hour is not yet come. His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever He saith unto you, do it. Now there were six waterpots of stone set there after the Jews' manner of purifying, containing two
Marcus Dods—The Expositor's Bible: The Gospel of St. John, Vol. I

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

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

Jesus Calls Four Fishermen to Follow Him.
(Sea of Galilee, Near Capernaum.) ^A Matt. IV. 18-22; ^B Mark I. 16-20; ^C Luke V. 1-11. ^a 18 And walking ^b 16 And passing along by the sea of Galilee [This lake is a pear-shaped body of water, about twelve and a half miles long and about seven miles across at its widest place. It is 682 feet below sea level; its waters are fresh, clear and abounding in fish, and it is surrounded by hills and mountains, which rise from 600 to 1,000 feet above it. Its greatest depth is about 165 feet], he [Jesus]
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

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

Third Withdrawal from Herod's Territory.
Subdivision D. The Transfiguration. Concerning Elijah. (a Spur of Hermon, Near Cæsarea Philippi.) ^A Matt. XVII. 1-13; ^B Mark IX. 2-13; ^C Luke IX. 28-36. ^c 28 And it came to pass about eight days { ^a six days} ^c after these sayings [Mark agrees with Matthew in saying six days. Luke qualifies his estimate by saying "about." But if we regard him as including the day of the "sayings" and also the day of the transfiguration, and the other two as excluding these days, then the three statements
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

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 19:16 NIV
Joshua 19:16 NLT
Joshua 19:16 ESV
Joshua 19:16 NASB
Joshua 19:16 KJV

Joshua 19:16 Commentaries

Bible Hub
Joshua 19:15
Top of Page
Top of Page