Joshua 13:27 Study Bible: and in the valley, Beth Haram, Beth Nimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, the Jordan's bank, to the uttermost part of the sea of Chinnereth beyond the Jordan eastward.

◄ Joshua 13:27 ►

and in the valley, Beth-haram, Beth-nimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon, with the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon (the territory on the east side of the Jordan up to the edge of the Sea of Chinnereth).

Study Bible

and in the valley
The term "valley" in Hebrew is "עֵמֶק" (emek), which often refers to a broad, flat area between hills or mountains. Valleys were significant in biblical times for agriculture due to their fertile soil and access to water. Spiritually, valleys can symbolize times of testing or growth, as they are places where life is sustained and battles are fought.

Beth-haram
This name means "house of the height" in Hebrew. It suggests a place of elevation or prominence, possibly indicating a strategic or fortified location. In a spiritual sense, it can remind believers of the importance of seeking higher ground in their faith journey, striving for spiritual elevation and closeness to God.

Beth-nimrah
Meaning "house of the leopard" or "house of the waters," this location was known for its abundant water sources. Water is a powerful biblical symbol of life, cleansing, and the Holy Spirit. Beth-nimrah's association with water can inspire believers to seek the refreshing and life-giving presence of God in their lives.

Succoth
This name means "booths" or "temporary shelters" in Hebrew. It is historically significant as the place where Jacob built shelters for his livestock (Genesis 33:17). Succoth reminds us of the transient nature of life and the importance of relying on God's provision and protection during our earthly journey.

Zaphon
Meaning "north" or "hidden," Zaphon was a city located in the northern part of the territory. The concept of "north" in biblical literature often symbolizes mystery or the unknown. Zaphon can encourage believers to trust in God's sovereignty over the unknown aspects of their lives, knowing that He holds all things in His hands.

the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon
Sihon was an Amorite king defeated by the Israelites under Moses' leadership (Numbers 21:21-31). His kingdom's inclusion in the inheritance of the tribes signifies God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. It serves as a reminder of God's power to overcome obstacles and grant victory to His people.

with the Jordan as its border
The Jordan River was a significant geographical and spiritual boundary for the Israelites. It represented a transition from the wilderness into the Promised Land. Crossing the Jordan symbolizes entering into God's promises and experiencing His faithfulness. It challenges believers to step out in faith and embrace the new life God offers.

to the lower end of the Sea of Chinnereth
The Sea of Chinnereth, also known as the Sea of Galilee, was a vital source of sustenance and trade. Its mention here highlights the abundance and provision found within the Promised Land. Spiritually, it can remind believers of the richness of life in Christ and the blessings that flow from a relationship with Him.

on the east side of the Jordan
This phrase emphasizes the specific location of the inheritance, highlighting the division of land among the tribes. It underscores the importance of understanding one's place within God's plan and the unique calling He has for each believer. It encourages Christians to embrace their God-given identity and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Beth-haram
A city in the territory allotted to the tribe of Gad, located in the Jordan Valley. Its name means "house of height" or "house of the high place."

2. Beth-nimrah
Another city in the territory of Gad, known for its waters and pastures. The name means "house of leopard" or "house of pure water."

3. Succoth
A city east of the Jordan River, significant in Israel's history as a place where Jacob built a house and made shelters for his livestock.

4. Zaphon
A location in the territory of Gad, possibly associated with a northern direction or a place of gathering.

5. Sihon, King of Heshbon
An Amorite king defeated by the Israelites under Moses' leadership. His kingdom was divided among the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land.

The Importance of Obedience
The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh received their inheritance because they obeyed God's command to assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the land west of the Jordan.

Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the Israelites received a physical inheritance, believers today have a spiritual inheritance in Christ. Reflect on the richness of this inheritance and how it impacts daily living.

Community and Cooperation
The division of land required cooperation among the tribes. Similarly, believers are called to work together in unity for the advancement of God's kingdom.

Historical Context and Its Relevance
Understanding the historical and geographical context of biblical events enriches our comprehension of Scripture and its application to our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the allocation of land to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can the obedience of these tribes in assisting their fellow Israelites inspire us to support and serve others in our community?

3. Reflect on the concept of spiritual inheritance. How does understanding our inheritance in Christ influence our daily decisions and actions?

4. What lessons can we learn from the cooperation among the tribes in dividing the land, and how can these lessons be applied to fostering unity within the church today?

5. How does understanding the historical and geographical context of Joshua 13:27 enhance your appreciation of God's Word and its relevance to your life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 32
This chapter details the request of the tribes of Reuben and Gad to settle in the land east of the Jordan, which includes the territories mentioned in Joshua 13:27.

Genesis 33:17
Jacob's journey to Succoth, where he built a house and made shelters for his livestock, establishing the historical significance of the location.

Deuteronomy 3:12-17
Describes the division of the land conquered from Sihon and Og, including the territories east of the Jordan.

Sermons

God Takes Note of Our ,Failing Strength	J. Parker, D.D.	Joshua 13:1-33
Joshua's Old Age	W. G. Blaikie, D. D.	Joshua 13:1-33
More Beyond		Joshua 13:1-33
On Progress in Religion	W. Jay.	Joshua 13:1-33
Territory Yet to be Taken by the Church	W. Seaton.	Joshua 13:1-33
The Christian's Work	T. Guthrie, D. D.	Joshua 13:1-33
The Uncompleted Work	F. B. Meyer, B. A.	Joshua 13:1-33
Unconquered Territory	Charles Vince.	Joshua 13:1-33
The Inheritance of Levi	W.F. Adeney	Joshua 13:14, 33

People

Ammonites, Amorites, Arah, Ashdodites, Ashdothites, Ashkelonites, Avites, Avvites, Balaam, Beor, Canaanites, Debir, Ekronites, Eshkalonites, Evi, Gad, Gadites, Gazathites, Gazites, Gebalites, Geshurites, Giblites, Gittites, Hur, Israelites, Jair, Joshua, Levi, Maacah, Maacathites, Maachathites, Machir, Machirites, Manasseh, Og, Reba, Rekem, Rephaites, Reuben, Reubenites, Sidonians, Sihon, Zereth, Zidonians, Zur

Places

Aphek, Aroer, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ashtaroth, Baal-gad, Bamoth-baal, Bashan, Beth-baal-meon, Beth-baal-peor, Beth-haram, Beth-jeshimoth, Beth-nimrah, Betonim, Debir, Dibon, Edrei, Egypt, Ekron, Gath, Gaza, Geshur, Gilead, Heshbon, Jahaz, Jair, Jazer, Jericho, Jordan River, Kedemoth, Kiriathaim, Lebanon, Lebo-hamath, Maacath, Mahanaim, Mearah, Medeba, Mephaath, Midian, Misrephoth-maim, Moab, Mount Hermon, Pisgah, Rabbah, Ramath-mizpeh, Salecah, Sea of Chinnereth, Shihor, Sibmah, Succoth, Tirzah, Valley of the Arnon, Zaphon, Zereth-shahar

Topics

Bank, Beth, Betharam, Beth-aram, Beth-haram, Beth-ha'ram, Bethnimrah, Beth-nimrah, Beth-nim'rah, Beyond, Border, Boundary, Chinnereth, Chin'nereth, Cinneroth, East, Eastward, Edge, Extremity, Haram, Heshbon, Jordan, Jordan's, Kingdom, Kinnereth, Limit, Lower, Nimrah, Realm, Rest, Sihon, Succoth, Territory, Thereof, Uttermost, Valley, Zaphon

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Joshua 13:1-33

5235 boundary

Joshua 13:15-33

5671 clan

Library

October 2. "Moses Gave not any Inheritance; the Lord God of Israel was their Inheritance, as He Said unto Them" (Josh. xiii. 33).
"Moses gave not any inheritance; the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance, as He said unto them" (Josh. xiii. 33). This is very significant. God gave the land to the other tribes but He gave Himself to the Levites. There is such a thing in Christian life as an inheritance from the Lord, and there is such a thing as having the Lord Himself for our inheritance. Some people get a sanctification from the Lord which is of much value, but which is variable, and often impermanent. Others have learned …
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

Unwon but Claimed
'There remaineth yet very much land to be possessed, ... them will I drive out from before the children of Israel; only divide thou it by lot unto Israel for an inheritance'--Joshua xiii. 1-8. Joshua was now a very old man and had occupied seven years in the conquest. His work was over, and now he had only to take steps to secure the completion by others of the triumph which he would never see. This incident has many applications to the work of the Church in the world, but not less important ones …
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

A Great Part of South Judea Cut Off under the Second Temple. Jewish Idumean.
The Talmudic girdle ends, as you see, in "Kadesh, Barnea, and Ascalon." Hence it cannot but be observed, that these two places are placed, as it were, in parallel; and whatsoever space lies between Ascalon and the river of Egypt, is excluded,--to wit, fifty-four miles. And one might, indeed, almost see some footsteps of that exclusion under the first Temple, in that very common expression, "From Dan even to Beer-sheba." This country, that was excluded, was something barren. The Talmudists speak thus …
John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica

The Birth of Jesus.
(at Bethlehem of Judæa, b.c. 5.) ^C Luke II. 1-7. ^c 1 Now it came to pass in those days [the days of the birth of John the Baptist], there went out a decree [a law] from Cæsar Augustus [Octavius, or Augustus, Cæsar was the nephew of and successor to Julius Cæsar. He took the name Augustus in compliment to his own greatness; and our month August is named for him; its old name being Sextilis], that all the world should be enrolled. [This enrollment or census was the first step …
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

The River of Egypt, Rhinocorura. The Lake of Sirbon.
Pliny writes, "From Pelusium are the intrenchments of Chabrias: mount Casius: the temple of Jupiter Casius: the tomb of Pompey the Great: Ostracine: Arabia is bounded sixty-five miles from Pelusium: soon after begins Idumea and Palestine from the rising up of the Sirbon lake." Either my eyes deceive me, while I read these things,--or mount Casius lies nearer Pelusium, than the lake of Sirbon. The maps have ill placed the Sirbon between mount Casius and Pelusium. Sirbon implies burning; the name of …
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

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