Joshua 13:3

from the Shihor east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron on the north (considered to be Canaanite territory)--that of the five Philistine rulers of Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron, as well as that of the Avvites;

Study Bible

from the Shihor
The term "Shihor" is often understood to refer to a body of water, likely the easternmost branch of the Nile River or a stream in Egypt. In Hebrew, "Shihor" can mean "dark" or "turbid," suggesting a river with dark, muddy waters. This geographical marker indicates the southern boundary of the land that was yet to be conquered by the Israelites. Historically, this area was significant as it marked the transition from Egyptian influence to the land promised to Israel. The mention of Shihor underscores the vastness of the land God intended for His people, extending from Egypt to the heart of Canaan.

east of Egypt
This phrase situates the Shihor geographically in relation to Egypt, emphasizing the proximity of the Promised Land to this ancient civilization. Egypt, a symbol of bondage and oppression in Israel's history, is now a reference point for the land of freedom and promise. The Israelites' journey from Egypt to Canaan is a powerful narrative of deliverance and divine faithfulness. The phrase reminds readers of the transition from slavery to the inheritance of a land flowing with milk and honey, a testament to God's covenant with Abraham.

to the border of Ekron
Ekron was one of the five major cities of the Philistines, located in the southwestern part of Canaan. The Philistines were a significant adversarial force against Israel, often representing opposition to God's people. The mention of Ekron as a boundary highlights the extent of the land yet to be possessed and the challenges that lay ahead. Historically, Ekron was a fortified city, and its inclusion in the land to be conquered signifies the need for reliance on God's strength to overcome formidable foes.

northward
This directional term indicates the extent of the land from south to north, encompassing a broad and diverse territory. The northward expansion signifies growth and the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would inherit a vast land. It also symbolizes spiritual growth and the journey of faith, as the Israelites were called to trust in God's provision and guidance as they moved into new territories.

is counted as Canaanite
The phrase "is counted as Canaanite" refers to the inhabitants of the land who were not Israelites. The Canaanites were known for their idolatrous practices and were often in conflict with the Israelites. This designation serves as a reminder of the cultural and spiritual challenges the Israelites would face in taking possession of the land. It underscores the need for the Israelites to remain faithful to God and to avoid the temptations of the surrounding pagan cultures.

the five rulers of the Philistines
The Philistines were organized into a pentapolis, or a group of five city-states, each ruled by a lord or ruler. These cities were Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron. The mention of the "five rulers" highlights the political and military organization of the Philistines, making them a formidable enemy. This structure also reflects the complexity of the task before the Israelites, as they were not merely conquering land but also dismantling established powers.

Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron
These cities were the centers of Philistine power and influence. Each city had its own ruler, and together they formed a coalition that often opposed Israel. The listing of these cities serves as a reminder of the specific challenges and battles that lay ahead for the Israelites. Spiritually, these cities can represent strongholds of sin and opposition in the believer's life, which must be overcome through faith and reliance on God's power.

the Avvites
The Avvites were a people who lived in the region before the Philistines. Their mention here indicates the layered history of the land and the various peoples who inhabited it. The Avvites, like the Canaanites, were part of the broader narrative of conquest and possession. Their presence serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the need for perseverance in the faith journey. Historically, the displacement of the Avvites by the Philistines also reflects the shifting dynamics of power and control in the ancient Near East.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Shihor
Often identified with the eastern branch of the Nile or a river in Egypt, marking the southern boundary of the land yet to be conquered.

2. Ekron
A Philistine city located in the northern part of the territory described, representing the northern boundary of the unconquered land.

3. Canaanites
The original inhabitants of the land, representing the peoples and cultures that Israel was to displace.

4. Philistines
A significant group of people in the region, known for their conflicts with Israel. They were organized into five city-states, each ruled by a lord.

5. Avvites
A lesser-known group mentioned alongside the Philistines, indicating the diverse peoples inhabiting the land.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Promises
The land described in Joshua 13:3 was part of the inheritance promised to Israel. Believers today can reflect on the promises God has made to them and trust in His faithfulness to fulfill them.

Spiritual Warfare
The presence of the Philistines and other groups in the land serves as a reminder of the spiritual battles believers face. Just as Israel was called to conquer the land, Christians are called to overcome spiritual strongholds.

Incomplete Obedience
The fact that these territories were not fully conquered by Israel can serve as a lesson on the importance of complete obedience to God's commands. Partial obedience can lead to ongoing struggles.

Cultural Influence
The mention of various peoples highlights the cultural influences that Israel faced. Believers today must be vigilant about the cultural influences that can lead them away from God's truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the mention of specific territories and peoples in Joshua 13:3 teach us about the scope of God's promises to Israel?

2. How can the ongoing presence of the Philistines in the land serve as a metaphor for spiritual battles in a believer's life today?

3. In what ways does the incomplete conquest of the land by Israel reflect challenges in our own spiritual journey?

4. How can we apply the lessons of cultural influence from Joshua 13:3 to our lives in a modern context?

5. What other biblical examples can you find where God's people faced similar challenges of incomplete obedience, and what were the outcomes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 23:31
This verse outlines the boundaries of the Promised Land, which includes the area from the Red Sea to the Sea of the Philistines, connecting to the territories mentioned in Joshua 13:3.

Judges 3:1-3
These verses describe the nations left in the land to test Israel, including the Philistines, highlighting the ongoing struggle and incomplete conquest.

1 Samuel 5:1-12
This passage recounts the capture of the Ark of the Covenant by the Philistines, illustrating the ongoing conflict and spiritual battles between Israel and the Philistines.