Joshua 15:8

From there the border went up the Valley of Hinnom along the southern slope of the Jebusites (that is, Jerusalem) and ascended to the top of the hill that faces the Valley of Hinnom on the west, at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim.

Study Bible

Then the border went up
The phrase "went up" indicates a movement or progression, often used in the context of ascending or moving towards a higher place. In Hebrew, the word used here is "עלה" (alah), which can mean to ascend or rise. This ascent is not just geographical but also spiritual, as the land of Israel is often seen as a place of divine promise and blessing. The movement of the border signifies the unfolding of God's covenant promises to the Israelites, as they take possession of the land allotted to them.

the Valley of Ben Hinnom
The Valley of Ben Hinnom, or "Gehenna" in later texts, holds significant historical and spiritual connotations. In Hebrew, "Ben Hinnom" means "son of Hinnom." This valley, located to the south of Jerusalem, later became associated with idolatrous practices and child sacrifices, as mentioned in 2 Kings 23:10 and Jeremiah 7:31. In the New Testament, it symbolizes a place of judgment and is often equated with hell. The mention of this valley in Joshua highlights the transformation of the land from a place of pagan practices to one of divine inheritance.

to the southern slope of the Jebusite city
The "Jebusite city" refers to Jerusalem before its conquest by King David. The Jebusites were a Canaanite tribe inhabiting the city. The "southern slope" indicates the specific geographical area of the city, emphasizing the precision of the territorial boundaries. Historically, the Jebusites were known for their fortified city, which David later captured, making it the political and spiritual center of Israel. This phrase underscores the transition from Jebusite control to Israelite possession, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham regarding the land.

(that is, Jerusalem)
The parenthetical clarification "that is, Jerusalem" serves to identify the Jebusite city with the more familiar name of Jerusalem. In Hebrew, "Jerusalem" is "ירושלים" (Yerushalayim), meaning "foundation of peace." This city holds profound significance as the future site of the Temple and the center of Jewish worship. The mention of Jerusalem here foreshadows its central role in biblical history and God's redemptive plan.

From there it climbed to the top of the hill
The phrase "climbed to the top of the hill" suggests a further ascent, both physically and spiritually. The Hebrew word for "hill" is "גבעה" (giv'ah), often used to describe elevated places of significance. This ascent represents the Israelites' journey towards fulfilling God's promises, as they establish themselves in the land. The hill symbolizes a place of vantage and strength, reflecting the security and stability that comes with God's provision.

west of the Valley of Hinnom
The direction "west" indicates the specific orientation of the border, providing clarity on the territorial limits. The Valley of Hinnom, as previously mentioned, is a place with a complex history. Its western boundary marks a transition from the valley's associations with judgment to the hope and promise of the land beyond. This directional detail emphasizes the meticulous nature of God's plan for His people.

at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim
The "Valley of Rephaim" is another significant geographical location, named after the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants mentioned in the Bible. The "northern end" specifies the boundary's extent, highlighting the precision of the land division. The Rephaim were considered formidable opponents, yet their mention here signifies God's power to deliver the land to the Israelites despite any obstacles. This phrase serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Valley of Ben Hinnom
A valley located to the south of Jerusalem, historically associated with idolatrous practices and later with the concept of Gehenna, a place of judgment.

2. Jebusite City (Jerusalem)
The ancient city inhabited by the Jebusites before being conquered by King David. It later became the capital of Israel and a central place of worship.

3. Valley of Rephaim
A fertile valley southwest of Jerusalem, known for its agricultural productivity and as a site of several biblical battles.

Teaching Points

The Significance of Boundaries
The delineation of boundaries in Joshua 15:8 reminds us of the importance of setting spiritual and moral boundaries in our lives to maintain holiness and obedience to God.

Historical and Spiritual Transformation
The Valley of Ben Hinnom's transformation from a place of idolatry to a symbol of divine judgment illustrates God's power to redeem and repurpose places and people for His glory.

Jerusalem's Central Role
As the Jebusite city becomes Jerusalem, it signifies the centrality of worship and God's presence in the life of His people, encouraging us to make Christ the center of our lives.

The Consequences of Idolatry
The historical use of the Valley of Ben Hinnom for idolatrous practices serves as a warning against the dangers of idolatry and the need for repentance and reform.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of the Valley of Ben Hinnom inform our understanding of its symbolic use in the New Testament as Gehenna?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of setting boundaries, as seen in Joshua 15:8, to our spiritual lives today?

3. How does the transformation of Jerusalem from a Jebusite city to the capital of Israel reflect God's redemptive work in our lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the idolatrous practices associated with the Valley of Ben Hinnom, and how can we guard against similar pitfalls in our own lives?

5. How does the centrality of Jerusalem in the Old Testament account point us to the centrality of Christ in the New Testament, and how can this shape our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 23:10
This verse describes King Josiah's reforms, where he defiled Topheth in the Valley of Ben Hinnom to prevent child sacrifices, highlighting the valley's association with idolatry.

Jeremiah 7:31-32
Jeremiah condemns the practices in the Valley of Ben Hinnom, prophesying its transformation into a place of judgment, which connects to its later symbolic use as Gehenna.

2 Samuel 5:6-9
This passage recounts David's conquest of Jerusalem from the Jebusites, establishing it as the political and spiritual center of Israel.