◄ Joshua 18 ►
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The Remainder Divided 1Then the whole congregation of Israel assembled at Shiloh and set up the Tent of Meeting there. And though the land was subdued before them, 2there were still seven tribes of Israel who had not yet received their inheritance. 3So Joshua said to the Israelites, “How long will you put off entering and possessing the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you? 4Appoint three men from each tribe, and I will send them out to survey the land and map it out, according to the inheritance of each. Then they will return to me 5and divide the land into seven portions. Judah shall remain in their territory in the south, and the house of Joseph shall remain in their territory in the north. 6When you have mapped out the seven portions of land and brought it to me, I will cast lots for you here in the presence of the LORD our God. 7The Levites, however, have no portion among you, because their inheritance is the priesthood of the LORD. And Gad, Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh have already received the inheritance that Moses the servant of the LORD gave them beyond the Jordan to the east.” 8As the men got up to go out, Joshua commanded them to map out the land, saying, “Go and survey the land, map it out, and return to me. Then I will cast lots for you here in Shiloh in the presence of the LORD.” 9So the men departed and went throughout the land, mapping it city by city into seven portions. Then they returned with the document to Joshua at the camp in Shiloh. 10And Joshua cast lots for them in the presence of the LORD at Shiloh, where he distributed the land to the Israelites according to their divisions. Benjamin’s Inheritance 11The first lot came up for the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. Their allotted territory lay between the tribes of Judah and Joseph: 12On the north side their border began at the Jordan, went up past the northern slope of Jericho, headed west through the hill country, and came out at the wilderness of Beth-aven. 13From there the border crossed over to the southern slope of Luz (that is, Bethel) and went down to Ataroth-addar on the hill south of Lower Beth-horon. 14On the west side the border curved southward from the hill facing Beth-horon on the south and came out at Kiriath-baal (that is, Kiriath-jearim), a city of the sons of Judah. This was the western side. 15On the south side the border began at the outskirts of Kiriath-jearim and extended westward to the spring at the Waters of Nephtoah. 16Then it went down to the foot of the hill that faces the Valley of Ben-hinnom at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim and ran down the Valley of Hinnom toward the southern slope of the Jebusites and downward to En-rogel. 17From there it curved northward and proceeded to En-shemesh and on to Geliloth facing the Ascent of Adummim, and continued down to the Stone of Bohan son of Reuben. 18Then it went on to the northern slope of Beth-arabaha and went down into the valley. 19The border continued to the northern slope of Beth-hoglah and came out at the northern bay of the Salt Sea,b at the mouth of the Jordan. This was the southern border. 20On the east side the border was the Jordan. These were the borders around the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. 21These were the cities of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin: Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz, 22Beth-arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel, 23Avvim, Parah, Ophrah, 24Chephar-ammoni, Ophni, and Geba—twelve cities, along with their villages. 25Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth, 26Mizpeh, Chephirah, Mozah, 27Rekem, Irpeel, Taralah, 28Zelah, Haeleph, Jebusc (that is, Jerusalem), Gibeah,d and Kiriath-jearime—fourteen cities, along with their villages. This was the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Benjamin. Footnotes: 18 a LXX; Hebrew slope facing the Arabah 19 b That is, the Dead Sea 28 c LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate; Hebrew the Jebusite 28 d Hebrew Gibeath 28 e LXX; Hebrew Kiriath Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 18 Summary Benjamin's Inheritance Verses 1–2 – The Tent of Meeting at Shiloh and the Seven Remaining Tribes Israel gathers at Shiloh, sets up the Tent of Meeting, and the land lies subdued before them. Yet seven tribes have not taken possession of their inheritance. Verses 3–7 – Joshua’s Charge to Survey the Land Joshua challenges the tribes for delaying and sends three men from each to walk the land, describe it in seven portions, and write the report. Judah will stay in the south, Joseph in the north, while the Levites remain without territorial allotment. Verses 8–10 – Survey Completed and Lots Cast before the LORD The men go, record the land on a scroll, return, and Joshua casts lots for the seven tribes “before the LORD at Shiloh” (v. 10). Verses 11–20 – The Boundaries of Benjamin The first lot falls to Benjamin, whose territory lies between Judah and Joseph, with the Jordan on the east, the Desert of Beth-aven on the north, and the Valley of Hinnom on the south near Jebus (Jerusalem). Verses 21–28 – The Cities of Benjamin Twenty-six cities are listed, including Jericho, Bethel, Gibeon, Mizpah, Gibeah, and Kiriath. This becomes the homeland of future leaders such as King Saul and the apostle Paul. In this biblical chapter, the Israelites assemble in Shiloh under the leadership of Joshua, setting up the Tent of Meeting, and strategizing on the distribution of the remaining lands among the seven tribes that have not yet received their inheritance. Historical Setting Joshua 18 follows the major battles recorded earlier in the book. Most large Canaanite coalitions are defeated (chapters 10–11), yet not every stronghold is occupied. The gathered assembly at Shiloh marks a transition from warfare to settling the promise first spoken to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). Shiloh – Israel’s First National Worship Center Placing the Tent of Meeting at Shiloh makes this hill country town the worship hub for nearly three centuries (Joshua 18:1; 1 Samuel 1:3). Archaeologists at Tel Shiloh have uncovered massive storage rooms, pottery from the Late Bronze and Iron Ages, and an east-west terrace some identify as the tabernacle’s platform, fitting the biblical timeframe. Why Seven Tribes Lag Behind 1. Satisfaction with temporary accommodations after years of war 2. Possible concern about the remaining fortified pockets of Canaanites 3. Dependence on the leadership of Joshua to press them forward The passage reminds readers that victory won must still be personally possessed (compare Deuteronomy 1:21; Hebrews 4:1). The Survey and Ancient Land Division Three men from each tribe map the land—likely using boundary markers, town names, and natural landmarks. Writing “in a book” (v. 9) shows early record-keeping, anticipating later genealogies (1 Chronicles 4–9). • Judah in the south (already settled) • Ephraim and Manasseh in the north (chapter 16–17 holdings) • Seven new portions awaiting lot casting Casting Lots before the LORD “Joshua cast lots for them before the LORD” (v. 10). The practice appears in: • Proverbs 16:33 – “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.” • 1 Samuel 14:41 and Acts 1:26, underscoring divine oversight in random outcomes. Because the lot is drawn at the Tent, the tribes accept the results as God’s will, preventing rivalry. Benjamin’s Strategic Territory • Sits between the two largest tribes, Judah and Ephraim, functioning as a buffer. • Controls critical north-south routes and east-west passage from Jericho to the coastal plain. • Includes parts of the Central Benjamin Plateau, one of the most defensible areas of the land. • Cities like Mizpah and Gibeon later host assemblies (1 Samuel 7; 2 Samuel 2). Future Biblical Connections • Judges 19–21: Civil conflict centers on Gibeah of Benjamin. • 1 Samuel 9: Saul, Israel’s first king, hails from Benjamin. • 2 Samuel 16: The ridge road through Benjamin sees David’s flight from Absalom. • Ezra 2 and Nehemiah 7: Exiles from Benjamin return to rebuild Jerusalem. • Philippians 3:5: Paul proudly declares he is “of the tribe of Benjamin.” Archaeological Notes on Benjaminite Cities • Jericho’s Late Bronze destruction layer aligns with Joshua 6. • Gibeon (El-Jib) has winepresses and jar handles inscribed “GB‘N,” matching Joshua 18:25. • Mizpah (Tell en-Nasbeh) yields fortification walls and Persian-period seal impressions, affirming continual occupation. Themes of Rest and Responsibility Joshua admonishes, “How long will you put off entering to possess the land…?” (v. 3). Rest is promised (Joshua 11:23), yet the people must act. Hebrews 4 draws on this era: believers enter God’s rest through faith yet are urged, “Let us be diligent” (Hebrews 4:11). Practical Takeaways • God fulfills His promises, but people must step forward to enjoy them. • Worship (Shiloh) precedes work (survey and settlement). • Clear records and fair processes guard unity among God’s people. • Seemingly small tribes (Benjamin) can wield large influence when faithful. Connections to Additional Scriptures Unity and Worship Hebrews 10:25 - Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Proactive Faith James 2:17 - So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead. God's Sovereignty Proverbs 16:33 - The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD. Teaching Points The Assembly at Shiloh The whole congregation of the Israelites assembled at Shiloh and set up the Tent of Meeting there. And the land was subdued before them. (Joshua 18:1) This marks a centralization of worship and governance, emphasizing the importance of unity and divine guidance. Seven Tribes Without an Inheritance But there were still seven tribes of Israel who had not yet received their inheritance. (Joshua 18:2) This highlights a delay in claiming God's promises, prompting reflection on spiritual complacency. Joshua's Leadership Joshua challenges the tribes, How long will you put off entering and taking possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you? (Joshua 18:3) His leadership encourages proactive faith and obedience. Surveying the Land Joshua instructs the people to survey the land, Go and survey the land and write a description of it, then return to me, and I will cast lots for you here before the LORD in Shiloh. (Joshua 18:8) This process underscores the importance of preparation and diligence in receiving God's blessings. Casting Lots The casting of lots before the Lord (Joshua 18:10) demonstrates reliance on God's sovereignty in decision-making. Practical Applications Seek Unity in Worship and Purpose Just as the Israelites gathered at Shiloh, prioritize communal worship and shared goals in your faith community. Avoid Spiritual Complacency Reflect on areas where you may be delaying in claiming God's promises and take steps to move forward in faith. Embrace Godly Leadership Be open to guidance and challenges from spiritual leaders who encourage you to pursue God's plans. Prepare Diligently Like the Israelites surveying the land, invest time in understanding and preparing for the tasks God has set before you. Trust in God's Sovereignty In decisions and uncertainties, rely on God's wisdom and timing, trusting that He will guide your path. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the central figure in this chapter, serving as the leader of the Israelites. He is responsible for overseeing the distribution of the land among the tribes. The name "Joshua" (Hebrew: יְהוֹשֻׁעַ, Yehoshua) means "The LORD is salvation." 2. Eleazar the priest Eleazar, the son of Aaron, is the high priest at this time. He assists Joshua in the process of casting lots for the land distribution. The name "Eleazar" (Hebrew: אֶלְעָזָר, Elʿazar) means "God has helped." 3. The heads of the fathers of the tribes of Israel These are the leaders or chiefs of the various tribes who are involved in the decision-making process for the allocation of the land. They represent their respective tribes in the assembly. The chapter does not mention any other specific individuals by name, focusing instead on the collective actions of the tribes and their leaders. Places 1. Gilgal This is where the Israelites set up camp after crossing the Jordan River. It served as a base for their operations in Canaan (Joshua 18:1). 2. Shiloh The place where the whole congregation of Israel assembled and where the Tent of Meeting was set up (Joshua 18:1). It became a central place of worship. 3. Jericho A city near the Jordan River, known for its walls that fell after the Israelites marched around them (Joshua 18:12). 4. Bethel A significant city in the history of Israel, associated with Jacob's dream of a ladder reaching to heaven (Joshua 18:13). 5. Beth-aven A location near Bethel, often mentioned in the context of idolatry (Joshua 18:12). 6. Beth-hoglah A town on the border of the territory of Benjamin, near the Jordan River (Joshua 18:19). 7. Beth-arabah A town in the wilderness, part of the southern border of Benjamin's territory (Joshua 18:18). 8. Zemaraim A location mentioned as part of the border description, possibly a hill or town (Joshua 18:22). 9. Ramah A town in the territory of Benjamin, later known as the home of the prophet Samuel (Joshua 18:25). 10. Gibeon A significant city that made a treaty with Israel and became a city of the Levites (Joshua 18:25). 11. Mizpah A place of gathering and judgment, often associated with significant events in Israel's history (Joshua 18:26). 12. Chephirah A city that, along with Gibeon, made a treaty with Israel (Joshua 18:26). 13. Mozah A town within the territory of Benjamin (Joshua 18:26). 14. Rekem Another town within Benjamin's territory (Joshua 18:27). 15. Irpeel A location mentioned in the boundary description (Joshua 18:27). 16. Taralah A town within the territory of Benjamin (Joshua 18:27). 17. Zelah A town in Benjamin's territory, known as the burial place of King Saul and his family (Joshua 18:28). 18. Haeleph A location mentioned in the boundary description (Joshua 18:28). 19. Jebus (Jerusalem) The city that would later become the capital of Israel under King David (Joshua 18:28). 20. Gibeath A town within the territory of Benjamin (Joshua 18:28). 21. Kiriath Another name for Kiriath-jearim, a city on the border of Benjamin and Judah (Joshua 18:28). Events 1. Assembly at Shiloh The entire congregation of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the Tent of Meeting there. This marked a significant moment as the land was now under their control. The Hebrew word for "congregation" (עֵדָה, edah) emphasizes the unity of the people in this sacred assembly. 2. Seven Tribes Without Inheritance It was noted that seven tribes had not yet received their inheritance. This highlights the incomplete distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. 3. Joshua's Exhortation Joshua challenged the Israelites, asking, "How long will you put off entering to take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you?" This call to action underscores the urgency and responsibility to claim God's promises. 4. Appointment of Surveyors Joshua instructed the Israelites to appoint three men from each tribe to survey the land and write a description of it. This task was to ensure a fair and organized distribution of the land. 5. Survey and Description of the Land The men were to go through the land, survey it, and write a description of it according to the inheritance of each tribe. This systematic approach was crucial for the equitable division of the land. 6. Return to Joshua After completing the survey, the men were to return to Joshua at Shiloh. This central location served as the administrative and spiritual hub for the Israelites. 7. Casting Lots for the Land Joshua cast lots for the tribes in the presence of the LORD at Shiloh. The casting of lots (גּוֹרָל, goral) was a divinely guided process to determine the distribution of the land. 8. Inheritance of Benjamin The lot for the tribe of Benjamin came up, and their territory was described in detail. This included the boundaries and specific cities within their inheritance, emphasizing the precision and care in the allocation process. Lessons from Joshua 18 1. Embrace the Inheritance God Has Given You In Joshua 18, we see the Israelites gathering at Shiloh to divide the remaining land among the seven tribes. This reminds us to embrace the unique inheritance God has given us. Just as the Israelites were called to possess their land, we are called to step into the life God has planned for us. "The land is subdued before you," (Joshua 18:1) signifies that God has already prepared the way; we just need to walk in faith and claim His promises. 2. Seek God's Guidance in Decision-Making Joshua instructed the Israelites to send out men to survey the land and bring back a report. This teaches us the importance of seeking God's guidance in our decisions. Before making a move, take time to pray and seek wisdom. "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it," (Psalm 37:5) is a reminder that God is faithful to guide us when we seek Him first. 3. Be Diligent in Your Responsibilities The Israelites were tasked with surveying the land, a job that required diligence and attention to detail. This is a call for us to be diligent in our responsibilities, whether at work, home, or in ministry. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters," (Colossians 3:23) encourages us to give our best in all we do, knowing it honors God. 4. Unity in Community The gathering at Shiloh was a communal event, highlighting the importance of unity among God's people. We are reminded that we are stronger together, supporting and encouraging one another in our faith journey. "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" (Psalm 133:1) emphasizes the beauty of unity in the body of Christ. 5. Trust in God's Timing The division of the land was a process that required patience and trust in God's timing. We often want things to happen on our schedule, but God's timing is perfect. "Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD," (Psalm 27:14) reassures us that waiting on God is always worth it. 6. Faith Over Fear The Israelites had to overcome fear to claim their inheritance. Similarly, we must choose faith over fear in our lives. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline," (2 Timothy 1:7) reminds us that with God, we can face any challenge with courage and confidence. 7. The Importance of Obedience Joshua's leadership and the people's obedience to God's commands were crucial in the successful division of the land. Obedience to God is key in our lives as well. "Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it," (Luke 11:28) highlights the blessings that come from living in obedience to His Word. 8. God's Faithfulness to His Promises The division of the land was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. This chapter is a testament to God's faithfulness. "Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations," (Deuteronomy 7:9) assures us that God is always faithful to His promises. 9. The Role of Leadership Joshua's role in guiding the Israelites shows the importance of godly leadership. Whether in the church, home, or workplace, leaders are called to lead with integrity and wisdom. "The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty," (Proverbs 21:5) encourages leaders to be thoughtful and wise in their decisions. 10. Celebrate God's Provision Finally, the division of the land was a time of celebration for the Israelites, recognizing God's provision. We too should celebrate and give thanks for God's blessings in our lives. "Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever," (Psalm 107:1) reminds us to continually praise God for His goodness and provision. Topics 1. The Assembly at Shiloh Joshua 18:1 describes the gathering of the entire congregation of the Israelites at Shiloh, where they set up the Tent of Meeting. This marks a significant moment as the land is now subdued before them. The Hebrew root for "congregation" (עֵדָה, edah) emphasizes the collective unity of the Israelites in this sacred assembly. 2. The Remaining Land to be Divided In Joshua 18:2-3, it is noted that seven tribes had not yet received their inheritance. Joshua challenges the Israelites, asking, "How long will you put off entering to take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you?" This highlights the need for action and faith in God's promises. 3. Surveying the Land Joshua 18:4-6 details the process of selecting three men from each tribe to survey the land and describe it according to their inheritance. The Hebrew word for "describe" (כָּתַב, kathab) implies a written record, underscoring the importance of careful documentation in dividing the land. 4. Casting Lots for the Land In Joshua 18:7-10, Joshua casts lots for the tribes at Shiloh before the LORD. The casting of lots (גּוֹרָל, goral) is a method of seeking divine guidance, ensuring that the division of the land is according to God's will. 5. The Inheritance of Benjamin Joshua 18:11-28 outlines the specific inheritance of the tribe of Benjamin. The passage provides detailed boundaries and cities within Benjamin's territory, emphasizing the precision and order in God's provision for His people. The Hebrew term for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) signifies a divinely allotted portion, reflecting God's sovereignty and care. Themes 1. Distribution of the Land Joshua 18 describes the allocation of the remaining land among the seven tribes of Israel that had not yet received their inheritance. This theme emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan. The Hebrew word for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) signifies a divinely ordained possession, highlighting the covenant relationship between God and Israel. 2. Unity and Community The gathering of the entire congregation at Shiloh to set up the Tent of Meeting (Joshua 18:1) underscores the importance of unity and communal worship. The Hebrew term for "congregation" (עֵדָה, edah) reflects the collective identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people. 3. Divine Guidance and Leadership Joshua's leadership in directing the survey of the land and casting lots for its division (Joshua 18:6-10) illustrates reliance on divine guidance. The casting of lots (גּוֹרָל, goral) was a method used to discern God's will, emphasizing the belief that God actively directed the distribution process. 4. Obedience and Faithfulness The command to survey the land and the subsequent obedience of the Israelites (Joshua 18:4-9) highlight the theme of obedience to God's instructions. The Hebrew root שָׁמַע (shama), meaning "to hear" or "to obey," is central to understanding the Israelites' response to divine commands. 5. Inheritance and Identity The specific delineation of territories for each tribe (Joshua 18:11-28) reinforces the theme of inheritance as a key aspect of tribal identity and continuity. The land served as a tangible expression of God's promises and the unique role of each tribe within the nation of Israel. 6. Centrality of Worship The establishment of the Tent of Meeting at Shiloh (Joshua 18:1) signifies the centrality of worship in the life of the Israelite community. Shiloh becomes a focal point for religious and communal life, reflecting the Hebrew concept of שָׁלוֹם (shalom), meaning peace and wholeness, which is achieved through right relationship with God. 7. Faith and Trust in God's Promises The process of land allocation serves as a testament to the Israelites' faith in God's promises. The narrative demonstrates that despite the challenges and delays, God's word remains steadfast and trustworthy, encouraging the Israelites to trust in His provision and timing. Prayer Points Pray for unity and a shared vision within your church or community. Ask God to reveal areas of spiritual complacency and for the courage to act on His promises. Seek wisdom and guidance for leaders who are tasked with directing others in faith. Pray for diligence and thoroughness in preparing for the tasks God has given you. Trust in God's sovereignty and seek His will in all decisions and uncertainties. As we study Joshua 18, may we be inspired to actively pursue the inheritance God has promised us, both in this life and the next, with faith, diligence, and unity. Answering Tough Questions 1. Joshua 18:1 – Is there historical or archaeological evidence confirming that “all the congregation of the children of Israel” actually gathered at Shiloh? 2. Joshua 18:4 – How likely is it that ancient Israelites had the means and literacy to survey and record the land so precisely? 3. Joshua 18:7 – Why does the text claim the Levites received no land allotment here, yet other passages (e.g., Numbers 35) suggest they inhabited specific cities? 4. Joshua 18:8–9 – Could a small team realistically map and document an entire region with accuracy given the era’s limited resources? 5. Joshua 18:10 – Does relying on casting lots for land distribution conflict with claims of divine guidance in other parts of the Bible? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Joshua's leadership in this chapter reflect his obedience to God's commands? 2. Discuss the significance of the phrase "how long will you put off entering and possessing the land..." What lessons can we learn from this in taking initiative and responsibility in our own lives? 3. Why do you think the Levites' inheritance was the priesthood and not a portion of the land? 4. How does the task of mapping out the land embody faith in action? 5. What can we learn from the meticulous planning and execution of the land distribution? 6. Why do you think the tribe of Benjamin's inheritance was detailed so extensively? What does this say about God’s precision and attention to detail? 7. How can the mapping and division of land be seen as an act of trust in God’s providence? 8. What do you think the tribes might have felt during this process of waiting for their inheritance? Can you relate this to a situation in your own life? 9. In our modern world, how can we apply the principle of casting lots to make decisions? Is there a place for such practices in today's Christian life? 10. Discuss the significance of the Tent of Meeting being set up in Shiloh. What does this say about the importance of communal worship and decision making? 11. Consider the role of the tribes who had already received their inheritance. How can we apply this to the concept of privilege in our society today? 12. How does Joshua’s questioning of the Israelites' delay to possess the land speak to us about taking hold of God's promises in our lives? 13. How does the process of land division, a seemingly secular task, become a spiritual one in this context? 14. How does the inheritance of the Levites, focusing on a spiritual role rather than a material possession, challenge our values and priorities today? 15. How might the individual tribes have felt about the fairness of the allocation process? 16. What can we learn about patience and God’s timing from the tribes waiting for their inheritance? 17. How can the unity and order displayed in this allocation process inform our actions in our own communities and churches? 18. What is the significance of land and place in this chapter, and how does this speak to our own attachment to physical spaces in our lives? 19. How can we understand the concept of inheritance in a spiritual sense, in light of this passage? 20. What does this chapter teach us about stewardship, and how can we apply these lessons to our own lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions