The concept of "The Sixth Lot" is rooted in the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, as described in the Book of Joshua. This allocation was part of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and it was carried out under the leadership of Joshua after the Israelites entered Canaan.

Biblical Context

In the Book of Joshua, the land of Canaan is divided among the twelve tribes of Israel by casting lots, a method believed to reflect God's sovereign will. The casting of lots was a common practice in ancient Israel for making decisions and discerning God's guidance. The process is detailed in Joshua 14-19, where the land is apportioned to each tribe.

The Sixth Lot: Naphtali

The sixth lot fell to the tribe of Naphtali. According to Joshua 19:32-39 , the territory assigned to Naphtali was located in the northern part of Canaan. The passage reads:

"The sixth lot came out for the clans of the tribe of Naphtali: Their border started at Heleph and the large tree in Zaanannim, passing Adami Nekeb and Jabneel, as far as Lakkum, and ending at the Jordan. Then the border turned westward to Aznoth Tabor and went from there to Hukkok. It touched Zebulun on the south, Asher on the west, and the Jordan on the east. The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, Adamah, Ramah, Hazor, Kedesh, Edrei, En-hazor, Iron, Migdal-el, Horem, Beth-anath, and Beth-shemesh. There were nineteen cities, along with their villages."

Geographical Significance

The territory of Naphtali was strategically located, encompassing fertile lands and significant trade routes. It included the region around the Sea of Galilee, known for its agricultural productivity and later as the setting for much of Jesus' ministry. The cities within Naphtali's borders, such as Kedesh and Hazor, were important centers in biblical history.

Historical and Theological Insights

The allocation of the sixth lot to Naphtali highlights the tribe's role in Israel's history. Naphtali was known for its warriors, as noted in Judges 4-5, where they played a crucial role in the victory over the Canaanite king Jabin and his commander Sisera. The tribe's location also made it vulnerable to invasions, as seen in later periods of Israel's history.

From a theological perspective, the division of the land by lot underscores the belief in God's providence and sovereignty. Each tribe's inheritance was seen as divinely ordained, fulfilling the covenant promises made to the patriarchs. The land was not merely a possession but a sacred trust, with each tribe responsible for maintaining its portion according to God's laws.

Cultural and Prophetic Dimensions

The tribe of Naphtali is mentioned in several prophetic contexts. In Isaiah 9:1-2, the region of Naphtali is highlighted as a place that would see a great light, a prophecy Christians believe was fulfilled in the coming of Jesus Christ, who ministered extensively in Galilee. This connection between the land and the Messiah adds a layer of prophetic significance to Naphtali's inheritance.

In summary, the sixth lot, assigned to Naphtali, represents a significant portion of Israel's heritage, both geographically and spiritually. Its allocation reflects the divine order established for the tribes of Israel and serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.