◄ Joshua 14 ►
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Land Division West of the Jordan 1Now these are the portions that the Israelites inherited in the land of Canaan, as distributed by Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the heads of the families of the tribes of Israel. 2Their inheritance was assigned by lot for the nine and a half tribes, as the LORD had commanded through Moses. 3For Moses had given the inheritance east of the Jordan to the other two and a half tribes. But he granted no inheritance among them to the Levites. 4The descendants of Joseph became two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim. And no portion of the land was given to the Levites, except for cities in which to live, along with pasturelands for their flocks and herds. 5So the Israelites did as the LORD had commanded Moses, and they divided the land. Caleb Requests Hebron 6Then the sons of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal, and Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, “You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh-barnea about you and me. 7I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out the land, and I brought back to him an honest report. 8Although my brothers who went with me made the hearts of the people melt with fear, I remained loyal to the LORD my God. 9On that day Moses swore to me, saying, ‘Surely the land on which you have set foot will be an inheritance to you and your children forever, because you have wholly followed the LORD my God.’ 10Now behold, as the LORD promised, He has kept me alive these forty-five years since He spoke this word to Moses, while Israel wandered in the wilderness. So here I am today, eighty-five years old, 11still as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me out. As my strength was then, so it is now for war, for going out, and for coming in. 12Now therefore give me this hill country that the LORD promised me on that day, for you yourself heard then that the Anakim were there, with great and fortified cities. Perhaps with the LORD’s help I will drive them out, as the LORD has spoken.” 13Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. 14Therefore Hebron belongs to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite as an inheritance to this day, because he wholly followed the LORD, the God of Israel. 15(Hebron used to be called Kiriath-arba, after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim.) Then the land had rest from war. 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 14 Summary Land Division West of the Jordan Verses 1–5 – The Remaining Inheritances Divided Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and the chiefs of the tribes gather at Shiloh to finish distributing Canaan. Lots are cast before the LORD. Levi receives no territorial share; instead, the Levites will live in towns among the tribes. Joseph’s descendants are counted as two tribes—Manasseh and Ephraim—so the total remains twelve. Verses 6–12 – Caleb’s Petition for Hebron At Gilgal, Caleb of the tribe of Judah reminds Joshua of the promise Moses made forty-five years earlier: “Surely the land on which your foot has walked will be your inheritance” (BSB, v. 9). Now eighty-five, Caleb declares, “I am still as strong today as I was on the day Moses sent me” (v. 11). He asks for the hill country of Hebron, where the Anakim giants live, confident that “the LORD will be with me” (v. 12). Verses 13–15 – Caleb Receives Hebron Joshua blesses Caleb and grants Hebron to him. The text notes Hebron was formerly Kiriath-arba, named after the greatest man among the Anakim. After Caleb’s claim, “the land had rest from war” (v. 15). This chapter unfolds the allocation of the promised lands among the Israelite tribes, under the leadership of Eleazar the priest and Joshua. It notably highlights the loyalty of Caleb and how his unwavering faith resulted in a personal reward from God. Historical Context • Timing: Joshua 14 sits in the broader period just after Israel’s major military campaigns (around 1400 BC). With the backbone of resistance broken, Israel transitions from conquest to settlement. • Leadership: The pairing of Joshua (military leader) and Eleazar (spiritual leader) shows civil and priestly authority working side by side. This mirrors the earlier partnership of Moses and Aaron. • Method: Casting lots was seen as letting God decide (cf. Proverbs 16:33). The people trusted that His hand guided even the dice. Geography and Archaeology • Hebron lies about 19 miles south-southwest of Jerusalem at roughly 3,000 feet elevation—true “hill country.” • Excavations at Tell Rumeida (ancient Hebron) have uncovered fortifications and Middle Bronze Age pottery, marking it as a significant urban center long before Israel arrived. • Nearby caves include the traditional site of Machpelah, purchased by Abraham (Genesis 23), linking Caleb’s inheritance to the patriarchs. • Kiriath-arba (“City of Arba”) alludes to a leader of the Anakim. Large stone structures found in the region hint at a culture that impressed later arrivals as giant-like. Character Study: Caleb • Lineage: Called “the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite” (v. 6), he likely descends from an Edomite clan grafted into Judah (Genesis 15:19, Numbers 32:12). His acceptance shows Israel’s doors were open to any who clung to the LORD. • Faith: As one of the two faithful spies (Numbers 13–14), Caleb kept confidence when others melted in fear. His faith is now rewarded openly. • Longevity: At 85 he remains vigorous, echoing Moses’ undimmed eye at 120 (Deuteronomy 34:7). The writer subtly credits obedience with vitality. Faith and Obedience in Focus Caleb’s request is bold. Rather than choose an easier plain, he asks for the toughest territory still crawling with fortified cities and Anakim. His words, “Perhaps the LORD will be with me” (v. 12), are not doubt but humble reliance. He models the principle voiced later in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Age, Strength, and Divine Promise • The chapter reminds readers that God’s promises do not fade with time. Forty-five years have passed since Kadesh-barnea, yet the promise stands. • Strength in old age is described as equal to youth (v. 11). Psalm 92:14 later echoes this: “They will still bear fruit in old age.” • The narrative encourages every generation—none are shelved if they trust God. Tribe of Judah: Leadership and Responsibility Judah receives its first allotment through Caleb, setting the tone for Judah’s leadership role. From Judah will arise King David (2 Samuel 2:1-4) and, ultimately, the Messiah (Matthew 1:2-3, 16). Caleb shows how Judah’s spirit is meant to be—courageous, tenacious, God-centered. Hebron: Past, Present, and Prophetic Importance • Patriarchal roots: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all lived here. Sarah, Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah are buried in its cave. • Davidic capital: Centuries later, David rules from Hebron for seven years before moving to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 5:1-5). • Levitical city and refuge: Joshua 20:7 and 21:11 designate Hebron for priests and as a city of refuge, extending Caleb’s legacy to future generations. • Future hope: Ezekiel 37’s vision of united Israel standing in its land resonates with the settled tranquility achieved here—“the land had rest from war.” Divine Allocation versus Human Lot • God’s hand: While men cast lots, the LORD controls the outcome. Every boundary in Canaan reflects divine choice. • Personal faith: Caleb’s personal request shows God allows faithful individuals to ask and receive within His broader plan, balancing community order with personal promise. Cross-References in Scripture • Numbers 13–14: Initial spying mission; promise to Caleb and Joshua. • Deuteronomy 1:34-36: Moses repeats the promise to Caleb. • 1 Chronicles 4:13-16: Caleb’s descendants and influence in Judah. • Psalm 60:7: “Judah is My scepter,” connecting tribal leadership. • Hebrews 3:16-19: Warning against the unbelief that earlier spies displayed; Caleb stands as a counterexample of faith. • 2 Timothy 4:7: Paul’s “I have fought the good fight” parallels Caleb’s lifelong endurance. Connections to Additional Scriptures Numbers 14:24 But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and has followed Me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he has entered, and his descendants will inherit it. Deuteronomy 1:36 Except Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him and his children I will give the land on which he has set foot, because he has followed the LORD wholeheartedly. Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. Teaching Points Caleb's Faithfulness Caleb is described as having wholly followed the LORD (Joshua 14:8). His faithfulness is a central theme, demonstrating the importance of unwavering trust in God's promises. God's Promise Fulfilled Caleb reminds Joshua of the promise God made through Moses, that he would inherit the land he had explored (Joshua 14:9). This underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Caleb's Strength and Courage At 85 years old, Caleb declares that he is as strong as he was 45 years earlier, ready to take possession of the land (Joshua 14:11). His strength and courage are a testament to God's sustaining power. Inheritance by Faith Caleb's inheritance of Hebron is a result of his faith and obedience (Joshua 14:13-14). This illustrates the principle that faith and obedience lead to receiving God's promises. Practical Applications Wholehearted Commitment Like Caleb, we are called to wholly follow the Lord, trusting in His promises regardless of circumstances. Claiming God's Promises We should actively claim and stand on the promises God has given us, believing that He is faithful to fulfill them. Strength in God Our strength and courage come from God, enabling us to face challenges and claim our spiritual inheritance. Faith and Obedience Living a life of faith and obedience positions us to receive the blessings God has prepared for us. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the leader of the Israelites, who succeeded Moses. He is responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and overseeing the distribution of the land among the tribes. His name in Hebrew, יְהוֹשֻׁעַ (Yehoshua), means "The LORD is salvation." 2. Caleb Caleb, the son of Jephunneh, is one of the two faithful spies (along with Joshua) who originally scouted the Promised Land and trusted in God's promise to give it to the Israelites. In Joshua 14, Caleb approaches Joshua to claim the inheritance promised to him by Moses. His name in Hebrew, כָּלֵב (Kalev), is often associated with the meaning "dog" or "faithful." 3. Jephunneh Jephunneh is mentioned as the father of Caleb. He is identified as a Kenizzite, which indicates his non-Israelite origin, yet his family is fully integrated into the tribe of Judah. Places 1. Gilgal This is the place where the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River. It served as a base for their operations in the conquest of Canaan. In Joshua 14:6, the narrative begins with the Israelites gathered at Gilgal. 2. Kadesh-barnea Mentioned in Joshua 14:6, Kadesh-barnea is the location from which Moses sent the twelve spies, including Caleb, to scout the land of Canaan. It is a significant site in the wilderness wanderings of the Israelites. 3. Hebron In Joshua 14:13-15, Hebron is the city given to Caleb as his inheritance. It is located in the hill country of Judah and is historically significant as the place where Abraham settled and where the patriarchs are buried. The Hebrew root of Hebron (חֶבְרוֹן, "Chevron") suggests association or alliance, reflecting its historical and spiritual importance. Events 1. Division of the Land The chapter begins with the description of the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. "Now these are the portions that the Israelites inherited in the land of Canaan, which Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the heads of the families of the tribes of Israel allotted to them" (Joshua 14:1). The Hebrew word for "portions" is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), meaning inheritance or possession. 2. Inheritance by Lot The land was distributed by casting lots, as commanded by the LORD through Moses. "Their inheritance was by lot, as the LORD had commanded through Moses for the nine and a half tribes" (Joshua 14:2). The concept of casting lots, "גּוֹרָל" (goral), was a common biblical method for making decisions, believed to reflect God's will. 3. Exclusion of Levi The Levites were not given a portion of the land as their inheritance. "But to the Levites he gave no inheritance among them" (Joshua 14:3). Instead, their inheritance was the offerings made by fire to the LORD, as described in other parts of the Torah. 4. Caleb’s Request Caleb, from the tribe of Judah, approaches Joshua to remind him of the promise made by Moses. "You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh-barnea about you and me" (Joshua 14:6). Caleb refers to the promise of land for his faithfulness. 5. Caleb’s Faithfulness Caleb recounts his faithfulness and the promise given to him. "I was forty years old when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadesh-barnea to spy out the land, and I brought back an honest report" (Joshua 14:7). The Hebrew word for "honest" is "אֱמֶת" (emet), meaning truth or faithfulness. 6. Caleb’s Strength Caleb declares his strength and readiness to take possession of the land. "Now behold, the LORD has kept me alive these forty-five years... I am still as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me out" (Joshua 14:10-11). This emphasizes his unwavering faith and physical readiness. 7. Caleb’s Inheritance Joshua blesses Caleb and grants him Hebron as his inheritance. "So Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance" (Joshua 14:13). The Hebrew root for "blessed" is "בָּרַךְ" (barak), indicating a formal bestowal of favor. 8. Hebron’s Legacy The chapter concludes with a note on Hebron's legacy. "Therefore Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly" (Joshua 14:14). The term "wholeheartedly" is derived from the Hebrew "מִלֵּא אַחֲרֵי" (mille' acharei), meaning to follow fully or completely. Lessons from Joshua 14 1. Faithfulness is Rewarded In Joshua 14, we see Caleb's unwavering faithfulness to God rewarded. Despite the years that have passed since he first spied out the land, Caleb remains steadfast in his trust in God's promises. As he declares, "I wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God" (Joshua 14:8). This teaches us that God honors those who remain faithful to Him, even when the journey is long and challenging. 2. Age is Just a Number Caleb was 85 years old when he claimed his inheritance, yet he was as vigorous as he was at 40. He confidently states, "I am still as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me out" (Joshua 14:11). This reminds us that with God, our age does not limit our ability to serve and achieve great things. Our strength and purpose come from Him. 3. Claim Your Promised Land Caleb boldly asks for the hill country that the LORD promised him, saying, "Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day" (Joshua 14:12). This encourages us to actively claim the promises God has given us. We should not be passive but step forward in faith to receive what God has set aside for us. 4. Overcoming Giants The land Caleb desired was inhabited by the Anakim, giants who intimidated others. Yet Caleb was undeterred, trusting that "the LORD will be with me to drive them out" (Joshua 14:12). This teaches us that no obstacle is too great when God is on our side. With His help, we can overcome any "giants" in our lives. 5. Wholehearted Devotion Caleb's life exemplifies wholehearted devotion to God. He is described as having "wholly followed the LORD" (Joshua 14:14). This challenges us to examine our own lives and ensure that we are fully committed to following God in every aspect, not just when it is convenient. 6. The Power of a Good Report Caleb and Joshua were the only two spies who brought back a positive report about the Promised Land. Caleb's faith-filled perspective was crucial in securing his inheritance. This shows us the power of a good report and a positive attitude. Our words and outlook can shape our future and influence those around us. 7. Patience in God's Timing Caleb waited 45 years to receive the land promised to him. His patience and trust in God's timing are remarkable. As he waited, he did not waver in his faith. This teaches us the importance of patience and trusting that God's timing is perfect, even when it requires waiting longer than we expect. 8. Courage to Stand Alone Caleb stood firm in his faith, even when the majority were against him. His courage to stand alone for what is right is inspiring. This reminds us that following God may sometimes require us to stand against the crowd, but with His strength, we can remain steadfast. 9. The Legacy of Faith Caleb's faithfulness left a legacy for his descendants. The land he claimed became an inheritance for his family. This encourages us to consider the legacy of faith we are building for future generations. Our faithfulness today can impact our children and grandchildren. 10. God's Promises are Sure The story of Caleb in Joshua 14 is a testament to the certainty of God's promises. What God promised Caleb, He fulfilled. As it is written, "So Hebron has belonged to Caleb... because he wholly followed the LORD, the God of Israel" (Joshua 14:14). This reassures us that God's promises are reliable and will come to pass, encouraging us to trust Him fully. Topics 1. The Inheritance of the Land Joshua 14 begins with the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. The chapter highlights the process by which the land of Canaan was divided as an inheritance among the Israelites, as commanded by the LORD through Moses. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The Hebrew word for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, ^nachalah^) signifies a possession or heritage, emphasizing the divine allocation of the land. 2. Caleb’s Request for Hebron Caleb, the son of Jephunneh, approaches Joshua to remind him of the promise made by Moses concerning his inheritance. Caleb recounts his faithfulness and the LORD's promise that he would receive the land he had explored. The Hebrew root for "wholeheartedly" (מִלֵּא, ^malei^) underscores Caleb's complete devotion to following the LORD. 3. Caleb’s Faithfulness and Strength Caleb testifies to his unwavering faith and strength, even at the age of eighty-five. He declares, "I am still as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me out" (Joshua 14:11). This statement highlights the sustaining power of God in Caleb's life, as the Hebrew word for "strength" (כֹּחַ, ^koach^) conveys vigor and capability. 4. The Blessing and Granting of Hebron Joshua blesses Caleb and grants him Hebron as his inheritance. This act is a fulfillment of God's promise and a testament to Caleb's faith. The name "Hebron" (חֶבְרוֹן, ^Chevron^) is significant, as it means "association" or "alliance," symbolizing the covenant relationship between God and His people. 5. The Legacy of Caleb’s Inheritance The chapter concludes by noting that Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb because he "followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly" (Joshua 14:14). This legacy serves as a model of faith and obedience for future generations. The Hebrew term for "wholeheartedly" (מִלֵּא, ^malei^) is reiterated, emphasizing the completeness of Caleb's dedication to God. Themes 1. Faithfulness of God Joshua 14 highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Caleb reminds Joshua of the promise made by God through Moses: "You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh-barnea about you and me" (Joshua 14:6). The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) emphasizes the certainty and authority of God's word. 2. Inheritance by Faith Caleb's inheritance of Hebron is a testament to his unwavering faith. He declares, "So here I am today, eighty-five years old, still as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me out" (Joshua 14:10-11). The theme underscores the idea that faith in God's promises leads to receiving one's inheritance. 3. Wholehearted Devotion Caleb is described as having "followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly" (Joshua 14:8). The Hebrew word for "wholeheartedly" (מָלֵא, male') conveys a sense of completeness and full commitment, highlighting the importance of total devotion to God. 4. Courage and Perseverance Caleb's request for the hill country of Hebron, despite the presence of the Anakim, demonstrates courage and perseverance. He states, "Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day" (Joshua 14:12). This theme emphasizes the need for courage in the face of challenges, trusting in God's strength. 5. Divine Reward Caleb's faithfulness is rewarded by God, as seen in the granting of Hebron as his inheritance: "Therefore Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly" (Joshua 14:14). This theme illustrates the principle that God rewards those who are faithful to Him. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that wholly follows the Lord, like Caleb, with unwavering faith and commitment. Ask God to help you recognize and claim His promises in your life, trusting in His faithfulness. Seek God's strength and courage to face challenges and to pursue the spiritual inheritance He has for you. Pray for a spirit of obedience and faith, that you may walk in the blessings God has prepared for you. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Joshua 14:10–11, how can an 85-year-old Caleb realistically maintain the same physical strength he had at 40? 2. In Joshua 14:1–5, why does the text assert distinct tribal territories when historical and archaeological evidence suggests overlapping regions? 3. In Joshua 14:13–15, what evidence supports or challenges the biblical claim that Hebron was specially given to Caleb? 4. In Joshua 14:3–4, how does the Levites’ lack of a territorial inheritance align with other biblical passages that mention Levitical cities and lands? 5. In Joshua 14:9, how do we reconcile the promise made by Moses to Caleb with the sparse extrabiblical records of such a grant? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the distribution of land among the Israelites signify about God's promise and provision to His people? 2. Why were the Levites not granted any inheritance of land? 3. How did the descendants of Joseph become two tribes, and what does this tell us about inheritance in ancient Israel? 4. How did the Israelites' obedience to God's command through Moses manifest in the division of the land? 5. What do Caleb's words to Joshua reveal about his character and his faith in God? 6. How did Caleb's loyalty to God during the spying mission impact his future and his inheritance? 7. How does Caleb's request for the hill country demonstrate his faith and courage, even at an advanced age? 8. How does Joshua's granting of Hebron to Caleb show respect for Caleb's faithfulness and Moses' promise? 9. What can we learn from Caleb's enduring strength and faith at the age of eighty-five? 10. In modern times, how can we apply Caleb's determination and trust in God's promises when facing our own "Anakim"? 11. How does Caleb's story inspire us to remain steadfast in our faith regardless of the circumstances or the passage of time? 12. What can we learn from the concept of "rest from war" in this context? How can this apply to our lives today? 13. How does the transformation of Hebron from a land of Anakim to Caleb's inheritance illustrate the power of God's promises? 14. What does the term "wholly followed the LORD" mean, and how can we implement this in our daily lives? 15. How can we embody the same spirit of courage and faithfulness that Caleb demonstrated when faced with daunting tasks in our personal or professional lives? 16. In a society where immediate rewards are often expected, how can we learn from Caleb's patience in waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled? 17. How does the allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites reflect God's provision for all His people, even those without a typical inheritance? 18. How can we trust in God's promises like Caleb did, especially when facing significant challenges or seemingly insurmountable odds? 19. Why is the renaming of Hebron significant, and how does it reflect the fulfillment of God's promise? 20. In what ways does Caleb's story challenge our understanding of what it means to age faithfully and actively in God's service? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions