Josué 15
Warren Wiersbe · Citado em PreceptAustin
Josué 15
Wiersbe - God had promised him the inheritance, and Caleb had faith that what God promised He was able to perform (see Rom. 4:20-21). Caleb was able to drive out the inhabitants of his inheritance (Josh. 15:13-14), the very "giants" that the ten unbelieving spies had feared (Num. 13:28, 33). Unbelief looks at the giants; faith looks to God. Unbelief depends on man's "common sense"; faith rests wholly on the Word of God.....What a difference it makes when believers "wholly follow the Lord" and exercise faith in the Word. Caleb's dedication and faith saved his life, gained him an inheritance, overcame the enemy, and enabled him to enrich his own family for years to come. The Lord certainly expects Christians today to be conquerors; in fact, Paul claims that we are "more than conquerors!" (Rom. 8:37) Joshua and Caleb conquered with physical weapons and claimed a material inheritance, but we conquer with spiritual weapons (2 Cor. 10:3-5) to claim our spiritual inheritance in Christ (Eph. 1:3). Christians are supposed to be overcomers through faith in Christ (1 John 5:4). We are to overcome the world (1 John 5:5), false doctrine (1 John 4:1-4), and the wicked one (1 John 2:13-14). Christ has already overcome Satan (Luke 11:21-22) and the world (John 16:33), so that we need only to claim His victory by faith. Note in the letters to the seven churches (Rev. 2-3) the many promises to those who overcome. "He who overcomes shall inherit all things!" promises Rev. 21:7 (NKJV).We overcome the enemy and claim the inheritance the same way as Caleb: (1) we must be wholly yielded to the Lord; (2) we must know His promises and believe them; (3) we must keep heart and mind fixed on the inheritance; (4) we must depend on God to give the victory. "Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" (1 Cor. 15:57, NKJV) .(Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament) Anak, Anakim - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal and clan name meaning, “long-necked” or “strong-necked.” The ancestor named Anak had three children: Ahiman, Sheshai, Talmai (Numbers 13:22 ). They lived in Hebron and the hill country (Joshua 11:21 ) before being destroyed by Joshua. Their remnants then lived among the Philistines (Joshua 11:22 ). These tall giants were part of the Nephilim (Genesis 6:4; Numbers 13:33 ). Arba was a hero of the Anakim (Judges 14:15 ). The spelling Anakims puts the English plural “s” on to the Hebrew plural “im.” GEORGE BUSH - Notes Critical and Practical on the Book of Joshua - Chapter 15 Drove thence the sons of Anak. This is doubtless mentioned here to show, that the confidence he had before expressed of success in this affair, through the presence of God with him, did not deceive him. The event answered all his expectations; and it is here put on record at once to the praise of Caleb, to the glory of God, Who never disappoints those that trust in Him, and for the encouragement of believers in all ages. On the sense of the phrase ‘drove out,’ see on Jdg. 1:10. Joshua 15:15 Then he went up from there against the inhabitants of Debir; now the name of Debir formerly was Kiriath-sepher. Jos 10:3,38 Jdg 1:11-13 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries CALEB CONTINUES CONQUEST Then - Then is an important conjunction usually marks progression in a narrative. Don't overlook it. Caleb was an old man, but he kept pressing on, leaving an example for all godly men and women of all ages to imitate! He went up from there against the inhabitants of Debir; now the name of Debir formerly was Kiriath-Sepher ("city of writing") - Caleb went up against Debir but as we see in Joshua 15:17 it was Othniel who captured it. Went up against means he marched against, fought, and attacked the people of Debir. He had just defeated the GIANTS and could have rested on his laurels, but chose to continue the Canaanite conquest. Grant comments on Debir - It was evidently a fortress of some renown and is thought to have been approximately 10 miles (16 kilometres) south of Hebron.Caleb made an offer to any man who could capture the city. (What the Bible Teaches - Joshua Judges Ruth) Cyril
Josué 15
Wiersbe - We're not sure why verse 32 says twenty-nine cities when thirty-six are named, but perhaps the names of some of the "villages" outside the city walls are included in the list. At that time the Jews couldn't take Jerusalem (v. 63). (Be Strong - Joshua: Putting God's Power to Work in Your Life) GEORGE BUSH - Notes Critical and Practical on the Book of Joshua - Chapter 15 All the cities are twenty and nine. But upon an exact computation there appears to be thirty-eight. The reason of the discrepancy doubtless is, either that nine of them were afterwards allotted to Simeon, or, as many of them are expressed by compound terms, translators may have combined what should be separated, and in one or two instances have formed the names of cities out of epithets. Joshua 15:33 In the lowland: Eshtaol and Zorah and Ashnah, Eshtaol: This town is placed by Eusebius ten mile from Eleutheropolis, towards Nicopolis: and it is supposed to be a wretched village, called Esdad, about 15 miles south of Yebna. Jos 19:41 Nu 13:23 Jdg 13:25 16:31 Zoreah: A town near to Eshtaol, placed at ten miles' distance N. of Eleutheropolis by Eusebius. Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Note Eshtaol and Zorah at marker in the shephelah (lowlands) in the foothills of mountains just to the East THE CITIES OF THE INHERITANCE - Joshua 15:20-62 A. The southern cities - verses 21-32 B. The western foothills (lowlands) cities - verses 33-47 C. The hill country cities - verses 48-60 D. The desert cities - verses 61-62 JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS In the lowland (shephelah -- see map): Eshtaol and Zorah and Ashnah (see map above note Ashnah is not on map) - The Shephelah (lowlands) was the area between the Coastal Plain to the west and the hill country of Judah to the east (see map above with hill country just to right of marker for Zorah). The Negev lay to its south. Eshtaol - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “asking (for an oracle).” Town in lowlands of Shephelah of Judah allotted to the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:33 ) but also to the tribe of Dan (Joshua 19:41 ). Near there, God's Spirit stirred Samson of the tribe of Dan (Judges 13:25 ). Samson was buried near Eshtaol (Judges 16:31 ). The tribe of Dan sent men from Eshtaol to seek a new homeland (Judges 18:2-11 ). Its citizens were kin to the clan of Caleb and to residents of Kiriath-jearim (1 Chronicles 2:53 ). It may be located at modern Irtuf, a mile south of Ishwa. Zorah - Holman Bible Dictionary (Highest point in the Shephelah)) Place name meaning, “wasps” or “hornets.” City of Dan (Joshua 19:41 ) about thirteen miles west of Jerusalem on the border with Judah (Joshua 15:33; “Zoreah,” KJV). It was the home of Manoah, Samson's father (Judges 13:2 ). Rehoboam, king of Judah, strengthened Zorah in case of war (2 Chronicles 11:5-12 ). Zorah - People's Bible Dictionary hornet's town, and Zareah (zâ're-ah), Nehemiah 11:29, a town in the low country of Judah—afterward assigned to Dan, Joshua 15:33; Joshua 19:41; the birthplace and burialplace of Samson. Judges 13:2; Judges 13:25; Judges 16:31. From Zorah the Danites sent spies to search the land for a place of inheritance. Judges 18:2. Zorah was fortified by Rehoboam, 2 Chronicles 11:10, and inhabited after the return from captivity. Nehemiah 11:29. The place still exists as Surah, 13 miles west of Jerusalem. Ashnah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name, 1. A city in the valley of the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:33 ), possibly modern Aslin. 2. A second city in the valley or shephelah of Judah (Joshua 15:43 ), possibly modern Idna, about eight miles northwest of Hebron. Lowland (08219)(shephelah from shaphel = to be or become low, to be abased) is a feminine noun meaning a low country; a foothill; a valley. It refers to the lowland including not just a low-lying plain but also the low-lying foothills of western Palestine looking out over the Mediterranean (Deut. 1:7; Josh. 9:1; Jdg 1:9; 1Ki 10:27). It also describes the lowland near the seacoast north of Mount Carmel (Josh. 11:2). A proper noun Shephelah (see map). The name means lowlands (KJV, low plains), an area placed under the authority of Baal-Hanan the Gederite (1Chr. 27:28; Obad. 1:19). (The Complete Word Study Old Testament) Gilbrant - Recent translations suggest that the term was a specific name for the range of hills between the coastal plain and the Judean hills that ran south for nearly thirty miles. Their heights range from 500 to 700 feet above sea level (compared to heights of 2000 to 3000 feet in the central highlands; TWOT, 2:951). Though intersected by several passes, these hills provided a natural barrier to the Hebrew peoples living inland. The Shephelah (see map) acted as a border between the Philistines and Israel in the times recorded in the Books of Judges and 1 and 2 Samuel. (Complete Biblical Library - Incredible Resource) Shephelah - Holman Bible Dictionary Transliteration of Hebrew geographical term meaning, “lowland.” (see map) Region of low foothills between the Philistine coastal plain and the highlands of Judah farther inland. It served as a battleground for Israel and Philistia during the period of the judges and early monarchy. Joshua 15:33-41 lists about thirty villages and towns located in the region. Shephelah - 20x in 19v - foothills(1), lowland(17), Shephelah(2) Deut. 1:7; Jos. 9:1; Jos. 10:40; Jos. 11:2; Jos. 11:16; Jos. 12:8; Jos. 15:33; Jdg. 1:9; 1 Ki. 10:27; 1 Chr. 27:28; 2 Chr. 1:15; 2 Chr. 9:27; 2 Chr. 26:10; 2 Chr. 28:18; Jer. 17:26; Jer. 32:44; Jer. 33:13; Obad. 1:19; Zech. 7:7 Joshua 15:34 and Zanoah and En-gannim, Tappuah and Enam, Tappuah: Jos 15:53 12:17 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Zanoah and En-gannim, Tappuah and Enam (see map above note only location of Zanoah is identified on this map). Zanoah - ISB Encyclopedia A town in the Judean Shephelah, grouped with Eshtaol, Zorah and Ashnah (Joshua 15:34 ). The Jews reoccupied the place after the exile (Nehemiah 11:30 ). Here it is named between Jarmuth and Adullam. The inhabitants assisted in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, repairing the valley gate (Nehemiah 3:13 ). Eusebius (in Onomasticon ) places it at Zanna, in the district of Eleutheropolis on the Jerusalem road. It is represented by the modern Zanu'a, about 10 miles North of Belt Jibrin (Eleutheropolis). En-Gannim - ISB Encyclopedia A town in the territory of Judah, named with Zanoah and Eshtaol (Joshua 15:34 ). It is probably identical with the modern Umm Jı̄na , South of Wady eṣ -Ṣarār , not far from Zanoah (Zanū‛a ). Tappuah - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal name meaning, “apple” or “quince.” City in the Shephelah district of Judah (Joshua 15:34 ), possibly Beit Nettif about twelve miles west of Bethlehem. Enam - McClintock and Strong's Bible Encyclopedia the two springs; Sept. ᾿Ηνάϊμ v.r. ᾿Ηναείμ and Μαιανί, Vulg. Enaim), a city in the lowlands of Judah, mentioned between Tappuah and Jarmuth (Joshua 15:34). From its mention with towns (Jarmuth and Eshtaol for instance) which are known to have been near Timnath, this is very probably the place in the "entrance" of which (perhaps at a fork of the road) Tamar sat to intercept her father-in-law on his way to Timnath (Genesis 38:14), Joshua 15:35 Jarmuth and Adullam, Socoh and Azekah, Jarmuth: Jos 10:3,23 12:11 Ne 11:29 Adullam: Jos 12:15 1Sa 22:1 Mic 1:15 Socoh: Eusebius says, there were two cities of Socoh, an upper and lower, nine miles from Eleutheropolis, towards Jerusalem. Jos 15:48 1Sa 17:1 1Ch 4:18 Azekah: Eusebius and Jerome say there was a town of this name in their time, between Jerusalem and Eleutheropolis. Jos 10:10 1Sa 17:1 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED Jarmuth and Adullam, Socoh and Azekah - See map above for the general location of all four of these cities. Jarmuth - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “height” or “swelling in the ground.” 1. City whose king joined southern coalition against Joshua and Gibeon (Joshua 10:1 ). Joshua “stored” the king in the cave of Makkedah before shaming him and slaying him (compare Joshua 12:11 ). It lay in the western “lowlands,” the “foothills” (NIV) or Shephelah (REB) of the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:33 ,Joshua 15:33,15:35 ). It is identified with modern tell Jarmuth three miles southwest of Beth Shemesh and fifteen miles southwest of Jerusalem. An Amarna letter from tell el-Hesi mentions it. Brief excavations have shown Early Bronze and Stone Age remains but as yet nothing from the Late Bronze or Early Iron ages. In Nehemiah's time Jewish settlers lived there (Nehemiah 11:29 ). 2 . A city of the Levites in the tribal territory of Issachar (Joshua 21:29; compare Joshua 19:21; 1 Chronicles 6:58 , both spelled differently and differing from 1. above; thus spelling of Remeth, Ramoth). This city may be located at modern Kaukab el-Hawa. Adullam - Smith's Bible Dictionary (justice of the people). Apocrypha. Odollam, a city of Judah in the lowland of the Shefelah, Joshua 15:35, the seat of a Canaanite king, Joshua 12:15, and evidently a place of great antiquity. Genesis 38:1; Genesis 38:12; Genesis 38:20. Fortified by Rehoboam, 2 Chronicles 11:7, it was one of the towns reoccupied by the Jews after their return from Babylon, Nehemiah 11:30, and still a city in the time of the Macabees. 2 Maccabees 12:38. Adullam was probably near Deir Dubban, five or six miles north of Eleutheropolis. The limestone cliffs of the whole of that locality are pierced with extensive excavations, some one of which is doubtless the "cave of Adullam," the refuge of David. 1 Samuel 22:1; 2 Samuel 23:13; 1 Chronicles 11:15. Socoh, Soco, Shocho - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “thorns.” 1. Town in southern Judah hill country used as a fortification against people approaching from the south (Joshua 15:35 ). It is modern Khirbet Abbad. Philistines gathered to battle Saul there (1 Samuel 17:1 ). Rehoboam fortified it (2 Chronicles 11:7 ) Azekah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “cultivated ground.” 1. City where Joshua defeated southern coalition of kings led by Adonizedek of Jerusalem (Joshua 10:10 ), as God cast hailstones from heaven on the fleeing armies. In the battle Joshua commanded the sun and moon to stand still (Joshua 10:12 ). Joshua allotted it to Judah (Joshua 15:35 ). Near it, the Philistines lined up their forces for battle against Saul (1 Samuel 17:1 ), resulting in the David and Goliath confrontation. Rehoboam, king of Judah, (931-913 B.C.), built up its fortifications (2 Chronicles 11:9 ). The tribe of Judah occupied it in Nehemiah's day (Nehemiah 11:30 ), after it had been one of the last cities to fall to Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon in 588 B.C. (Jeremiah 34:7 ). One of the letters found at Lachish tells of searching for signal lights from Azekah but not being able to see them. This can be dated to 588 B.C. An earlier Assyrian inscription, perhaps from 712 B.C. speaks of Azekah's location on a mountain ridge, being inaccessible like an eagle's nest, too strong for siege ramps and battering rams. Joshua 15:36 and Shaaraim and Adithaim and Gederah and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages. Sharaim: 1Sa 17:52 Adithaim: Eusebius mentions two cities, called Adatha, one towards Gaza, and the other east of Lydda. and Gederothaim: or, or, fourteen cities, There are fifteen in all; but the two last seem to be only two names of the same city. Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Shaaraim and Adithaim and Gederah and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages. See map above for the general location but note there is only one city identified on this map, Gederah. Shaaraim - International Standard Bible Encyclopedia A city in the Shephelah or "lowland" of Judah mentioned (Joshua 15:36 ) in close association with Socoh and Azekah; the vanquished army of the Philistines passed a Shaaraim in their flight from Socoh toward Gath and Ekron (1 Samuel 17:52 ). It is possible that in this latter reference the "two gates" may refer - as Septuagint implies - to the two Philistine strongholds themselves. Shaaraim has been identified with Tell Zakarı̄ya (see however AZEKAH ) and with Kh . Sa‛ı̄reh (PEF , III, 124, Sh XVII ), an old site West of Beit ‛Atāb . Both proposals are hazardous. Adithaim - Smith's Bible Dictionary (double ornament). A town belonging to Judah, lying in the low country, and named, between Sharaim and hag-Gederah, in Joshua 15:36 only. Gederah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “sheepfold” or “stone wall.” A village in the Shephalah or valley of Judah (Joshua 15:36 ). It is located at modern tell el-Judeireh north of Maraeshah and ten miles southeast of Lod. Villagers were noted for skill in making pottery, much of which was made for the king (1 Chronicles 4:23 ). The home of one of David's soldiers (1 Chronicles 12:4 ) apparently belongs in Benjamin (1 Chronicles 12:2 ), but he may have been living in Judah before joining David at Ziklag. Otherwise, this is a different Gederah located at Jedireh near Gibeon. See Geder . Gederothaim - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “two walls” or common noun referring to sheepfolds (compare REB translation, namely both parts of Gederah). A town in the valley or Shephelah of Judah allotted to Judah (Joshua 15:36 ). The list contains fourteen cities without Gederothaim, causing several commentators to identify Gederothaim as a part of Gederah or as a copyist's duplication. See Gederah . Joshua 15:37 Zenan and Hadashah and Migdal-gad, Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED Zenan (some identify it with Shaphir map) and Hadashah (map) and Migdal-gad (possible location), Zenan - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “flocks.” Village in the Shephelah (wilderness) district of Judah (Joshua 15:37 ), likely identified with Araq el-Kharba. Zenan is perhaps identical to Zaanan (Micah 1:11 ). Hadashah - Holman Bible Dictionary Town name meaning, “new.” Town in tribal territory of Judah situated in vicinity of Lachish (Joshua 15:37 ). Migdal-Gad - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “Tower of Gad.” Village near Lachish in the Shephelah district of Judah (Joshua 15:37 ). The site is perhaps that of khirbet el-Mejdeleh five miles south of Beit Jibrin. Joshua 15:38 and Dilean and Mizpeh and Joktheel, Mizpeh: Ge 31:48,49 Jdg 20:1 21:5 1Sa 7:5,6,16 10:17 Joktheel: 2Ki 14:7 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Dilean and Mizpeh and Joktheel, Dilean - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “protrusion” or “ledge.” Village in tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:38 ). Tell en-Najileh southwest of tell el-Hesi has been suggested as a possible modern site. Mizpah, Mizpeh - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name or common noun meaning, “watchtower” or “lookout.” A name commonly used in Palestine to refer to places used to provide security. The name appears in two different forms, Mizpah and Mizpeh, with the same basic meaning. At least two sites and one region west of the Jordan were named Mizpah. The account of Joshua's encounter with Jabin, king of Hazor (Joshua 11:1 ) refers to “the land of Mizpah” (Joshua 11:3 ) and “the valley of Mizpeh” (Joshua 11:8 ), a region in north Palestine, the location of which is unknown. A second Mizpeh west of the Jordan was located in the tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:38 ). While the exact location is unknown, this Mizpeh may have been near Lachish. Joktheel - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “God nourishes” or “destroys.” 1. Town in Shephelah or valley of tribal allotment of Judah (Joshua 15:38 ). 2 . King Amaziah captured Selah from Edom and renamed it Joktheel (2 Kings 14:7 ). It may be modern es-Sela northwest of Bozrah. See Selah . Joshua 15:39 Lachish and Bozkath and Eglon, Lachish: Jos 10:3,31,32 12:11 2Ki 18:14,17 19:8 Bozkath: 2Ki 22:1 Eglon: Jos 10:3 12:12 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED Lachish (see map) and Bozkath and Eglon, (See map for Eglon just above the name "JUDAH"), Lachish - Holman Bible Dictionary (see longer discussion of its history) Place name meaning “obstinate.” An important Old Testament city located in the Shephelah (“lowlands”) southwest of Jerusalem. It has usually been identified in modern times with the archaeological site called tell ed-Duweir. The same site has more recently come to be called tel Lachish. Lachish is also mentioned in ancient Egyptian, Assyrian and Babylonian records. The earliest reference to Lachish is in the Amarna letters (about 1400 B.C). It was evidently one of the important Canaanite cities of the time. The Hebrew army under Joshua's command defeated the king of Lachish, killed him and conquered his city (Joshua 10:5 , Joshua 10:23 ,Joshua 10:23,10:32-33 ). Later, Lachish was apportioned to the Tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:39 ). The next Biblical reference to Lachish comes in 2 Chronicles 11:9 , from the reign of Rehoboam who “fortified the city.” Lachish was also the city of refuge for Amaziah who fled there from Jerusalem to escape a conspiracy against him (2 Kings 14:19; 2 Chronicles 25:27 ). Bozkath - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “swelling.” Town near Lachish and Eglon in tribal allotment of Judah (Joshua 15:39 ). It was the home town of Adaiah, King Josiah's maternal grandmother (1 Kings 22:1 ). Its precise location is not known. Eglon - Holman Bible Dictionary A Canaanite city whose king entered an alliance with four other Canaanite rulers against Gibeon (Joshua 10:3 ). The Gibeonites had made a treaty with Israel (Joshua 9:1 ). Subsequently, Eglon was captured by the Israelite army under Joshua. It became a part of the territory of the tribe of Judah. Most scholars long held that the modern site of tell el-Hesi was the location of ancient Eglon. More recently, however, some have contended for tell Eton. Both places are to the southwest of Lachish. Joshua 15:40 and Cabbon and Lahmas and Chitlish, Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Cabbon and Lahmas and Chitlish, Cabbon - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name of uncertain meaning. Town in tribal allotment of Judah (Joshua 15:40 ). Its location is uncertain. Lahmas - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name perhaps meaning “violence.” Reading of basic Hebrew manuscript (Joshua 15:40 ) adopted by REB, NIV, NAS. Possibly, early scribes confused final letter with similar appearing final “m” in Hebrew. See Lahmam . Chitlish - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name of foreign origin. It was a city of the tribe of Judah near Lachish (Joshua 15:40 ). KJV reads Kithlish; NIV, Kitlish. Joshua 15:41 and Gederoth, Beth-dagon and Naamah and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their villages. Makkedah: Jos 10:21,28 12:16 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Gederoth, Beth-dagon and Naamah and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their village - Beth-Dagon is not Not the the Beth Dagon in Asher (Joshua 19:27). Gederoth - McClintock and Strong's Bible Encyclopedia fortresses or sheep-cotes (See GEDER); in Chron. with the art.; Sept. Γαδηρώθ v.r. in Chron. Γαληρώ, etc.; Vulg. Gideroth, Gederoth), a town in the "valley" of Judah (Joshua 15:41, where it is mentioned between Kithlish and Bethdagon); one of those captured by the Philistines from Ahaz (1 Chronicles 28:18). Beth-Dagon - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “house of Dagon.” Apparently the name indicates a worship place of Philistine god Dagon. 1. Town in tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:41 ). It is probably modern khirbet Dajun on the road connecting Ramalleh and Joppa. 2. Town in Asher (Joshua 19:27 ) without certain present location. Naamah - Holman Bible Dictionary Village in the Shephelah district of Judah (Joshua 15:41 ), likely khirbet Farad about twenty-two miles west of Jerusalem between Timnah and Eltekeh. Makkedah - Holman Bible Dictionary Name meaning, “Place of shepherds,” of a Canaanite city, the site of Joshua's rout of the combined forces of five Canaanite kings (Joshua 10:10 ). The kings sought refuge in nearby caves but were trapped there (Joshua 10:16 ). Joshua captured the city, killing all its population (Joshua 10:28 ). Later, Makkedah was assigned to the Shephelah (lowland) district of Judah (Joshua 15:4-1 ). Suggested locations include: Eusebius' suggestion of a site eight and a half miles from Eleutheropolis (Beit Jibrin); tell es-Safi south of Hulda (Libnah); el-Muqhar (“the Caves”) southwest of Ekron; and a site between Lachish and Hebron. Joshua 15:42 Libnah and Ether and Ashan, Libnah: Jos 10:29 12:15 2Ki 8:22 Ether: Jos 19:7 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED Libnah and Ether and Ashan - See map of possible location of Libnah. See map for Ashan (in region of Simeon) Libnah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning “white” or “storax tree.” oshua allotted it to the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:42 ) and separated it as a city for the Levites (Joshua 21:13 ). It illustrated western border rebellion against King Joram of Judah (853-841 B.C.) just as Edom represented rebellion in the east (2 Kings 8:22 ). It lay on the invasion route to Jerusalem followed by Sennacherib about 701 B.C. (2 Kings 19:8 ). The mother of Kings Jehoahaz (609 B.C.) and Zedekiah (597-586 B.C.) came from Libnah (2 Kings 23:31; 2 Kings 24:18 ). Ether - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “smoke of incense.” 1. Town in tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:42 ). Ether - Fausset's Bible DictionaryA city in the shephelah or low country of Judah; allotted to Simeon (Joshua 15:42; Joshua 19:7). JOCHEN in 1 Chronicles 4:32. In the wilderness country below Hebron, E. of Beersheba. Tel Athar now, according to Van de Velde. Ashan - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “smoke.” City in western hills of tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:42 ) given to tribe of Simeon (Joshua 19:7 ). The Aaronic priests claimed Ashan as one of their cities (1 Chronicles 6:59; called Ain in Joshua 21:16 ). See Bor-asan. Ashan was located at modern Khirbet Asan just northwest of Beersheba. Joshua 15:43 and Iphtah and Ashnah and Nezib, Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Iphtah and Ashnah and Nezib, Iphtah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “he opened.” Town in tribal territory of Judah in the Shephelah (Joshua 15:43 ). It may be located at modern Terqumiyeh, halfway between Hebron and Beit Jibrin. Ashnah - Holman Bible Dictionary 1. A city in the valley of the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:33 ), possibly modern Aslin. 2. A second city in the valley or shephelah of Judah (Joshua 15:43 ), possibly modern Idna, about eight miles northwest of Hebron. Nezib - Easton's Bible Dictionary - A town in the "plain" of Judah. It has been identified with Beit Nuzib, about 14 miles south-west of Jerusalem, in the Wady Sur (Joshua 15:43 ). Joshua 15:44 and Keilah and Achzib and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages. Keilah: 1Sa 23:1-14 Achzib: Ge 38:5 Mic 1:14 Mareshah: Mic 1:15 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED and Keilah and Achzib and Mareshah; nine cities with their villages Keilah - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal and place name perhaps meaning, “fortress.” A fortified city in the lowland plain (Shephelah) of the territory of Judah identified with modern khirbet Qila, about eight miles northwest of Hebron and eighteen miles southwest of Jerusalem. David rescued the city from a Philistine attack but later withdrew fearing the populace would hand him over to Saul (1 Samuel 23:1-13 ). The city was rebuilt by the returning exiles (Nehemiah 3:17-18 ). One of the traditional sites of the burial place of Habakkuk. Achzib - Holman Bible Dictionary ACZIB (NIV) Place name meaning, “deceitful.” 1. Town in southern Judah, perhaps modern Tel el-Beida near Lachish (Joshua 15:44 ). Micah 1:14 makes a wordplay using Achzib, literally the houses of deceitfulness will be deceitful. Mareshah - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal and place name meaning, “place at the top” A Canaanite city incorporated into the Shephelah district of Judah (Joshua 15:44 ). The city was fortified by Rehoboam (2 Chronicles 11:8 ). Mereshah was near the site of the battle between the forces of King Asa and the Ethiopian (Egyptian?) commander Zerah (2 Chronicles 14:9-14 ). Mareshah was home to the prophet Eliezar (2 Chronicles 20:37 ). Micah foretold the destruction of the city (Micah 1:15 ). The site has been identified with tell Sandahannah one mile southeast of Beit Jibrin. Joshua 15:45 Ekron, with its towns and its villages; Ekron: Jos 13:3 1Sa 5:10 6:17 Am 1:8 Zep 2:4 Zec 9:5-7 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED Ekron, with its towns and its villages - In Joshua 15:45-47 we find the list of three of the five major Philistine cities (see Josh 13:3), which were assigned to Judah but were not possessed until many years later. Ekron - Holman Bible Dictionary Ekron is the northernmost of the five major Philistine cities known as the pentapolis. The site of ancient Ekron has been much debated, but now is generally agreed to be modern tell Miqne, about 14 miles inland from the Mediterranean Sea and 10 miles from Ashdod. The site is one of the largest in Palestine, covering some 50 acres. Ekron lies on the road leading from Ashdod into the Judean hill country and up to Jerusalem through the Sorek Valley. Ekron was assigned to both Judah (Joshua 15:11 ,Joshua 15:11,15:45-46 ) and Dan (Joshua 19:43 ) in the tribal allotments. It probably lay on the border between the tribes. Judges 1:18 reports that Judah captured Ekron along with other parts of the Philistine coast, but Ekron was certainly in Philistine hands at the time the ark was captured ( 1 Samuel 5:10 ). It was also the place to which the Philistines retreated after David slew Goliath (1 Samuel 17:52 ). Ahaziah, the son of King Ahab of Israel, called on the god of Ekron, Baal-zebub, when he was sick (2 Kings 1:2-16 ). That name (literally, “Lord of the flies”) may have been slightly changed by the Hebrew writer to express antipathy toward the Philistine deity. The name of the deity may have been Baal-zebul (“Baal is exalted”). Excavations at tell Miqne have discovered much pottery that is typically Philistine. From the last period before tell Miqne was destroyed by the Babylonians, the excavators found an important industrial complex near the city gate. A hoard of iron agricultural tools was found. Hundreds of whole pottery vessels were present. Perhaps most importantly, a well-preserved olive press was discovered. This press is the largest and best preserved known in Israel. A horned altar was also found during the excavations. Joshua 15:46 from Ekron even to the sea, all that were by the side of Ashdod, with their villages. near: Heb. by the place of, 1Sa 5:1,6 2Ch 26:6 Ne 13:23,24 Isa 20:1 Am 1:8 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED from Ekron even to the sea, all that were by the side of Ashdod, with their villages - Madvig notes that "The style of these three verses differs markedly from all the others in this list of towns assigned to Judah, both in the inclusion of the phrase “its surrounding settlements and villages” and in the omission of the concluding statement that gives the total number of cities. Ashdod and Ekron were nearly straight west of Jerusalem, Ekron near the foothills and Ashdod near the coast. Gaza was near the coast also but far south in the coastal plain." (The Expositor's Bible Commentary Volume 3) Joshua 15:47 Ashdod, its towns and its villages; Gaza, its towns and its villages; as far as the brook of Egypt and the Great Sea, even its coastline. Gaza: Jdg 16:1-21 Jer 47:1,5 Am 1:6,7 Zep 2:4 Ac 8:26 the river: Jos 15:4 13:3 Ex 23:31 Nu 34:5,6 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JUDAH'S CITIES IN THE WESTERN FOOTHILLS CONTINUED Ashdod, its towns and its villages; Gaza, its towns and its villages; as far as the brook of Egypt and the Great Sea, even its coastline. Great Sea - Holman Bible Dictionary Mediterranean Sea (Numbers 34:6-7; Joshua 15:12 ). Joshua 15:48 In the hill country: Shamir and Jattir and Socoh, Jattir: Jos 21:14 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF THE INHERITANCE - Joshua 15:20-62 A. The southern cities - verses 21-32 B. The western foothills cities - verses 33-47 C. The hill country cities - verses 48-60 D. The desert cities - verses 61-62 THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY In the hill country: Shamir and Jattir and Socoh This areas is (1) north of the Negev/Negeb, (2) east of the Shephelah, (3) west of the wilderness of Judah and (4) south of Jerusalem (Look at this map where you will find each of the aforementioned sites - the "hill country" is in the midst of these 4 sites). This area became home to a large number of Judahites Shamir - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal and place name meaning, “thorn” or “diamond.” Town in hill country of Judah assigned to tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:48 ). Located either at modern el-Bireh near khirbet Somera northeast of en-Rimmon or khirbet es-Sumara about twelve miles west-southwest of Hebron. Jattir - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “the remainder.” Town in the hills of the tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:48 ). David gave some of war booty from victory over Amalekites to Jattir (1 Samuel 30:27 ). Joshua reserved it for the Levites (Joshua 20:14 ). It was located near modern khirbet Attir about thirteen miles south southwest of Hebron and fourteen miles northeast of Beersheba. Socoh - Smith's Bible Dictionary 1. In the district of the Shefelah. Joshua 15:35; 1 Samuel 17:1; 2 Chronicles 8:18; 2 Chronicles 11:7. In the time of Eusebius, it bore the name of Socchoth, and lay between eight and nine Roman miles from Eleutheropolis, on the road to Jerusalem. It may be identified with esh-Shuweikeh, in the western part of the mountains of Judah. From this village, probably, came Antigonus of Soco, who lived about the commencement of the third century B.C. 2. Also a town of Judah, but in the mountain district. Joshua 15:48. It has been discovered about 10 miles southwest of Hebron; bearing, like the other Socoh, the name of esh-Shuweikeh. Joshua 15:49 and Dannah and Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir), Kirjathsannah: Jos 15:15 Jdg 1:11 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Dannah and Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir), Dannah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “fortress.” Town assigned tribe of Judah in the hill country (Joshua 15:49 ). Its location is uncertain. Kiriath-Sannah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name perhaps meaning, “city of bronze.” Another name for the city of Debir, also known as Kiriath-Sepher (Joshua 15:15-16 ,Joshua 15:15-16,15:49 ) Debir - Holman Bible Dictionary Personal and place name meaning, “back, behind.” As a common noun, the Hebrew term refers to the back room of the Temple, the holy of holies. Important city in hill country of tribe of Judah whose exact location is debated by archaeologists and geographers. Joshua annihilated its residents (Joshua 10:38; compare Joshua 11:21; Joshua 12:13 ). Joshua 15:15 describes Caleb's challenge to Othniel to capture Debir, formerly called Kiriath Sepher. Compare Judges 1:11 . Joshua 15:49 gives yet another name, Kiriath Sannah, to Debir. It became a levitical city for the priests ( Joshua 21:15 ). Different scholars locate Debir at tell beit Mirsim, thirteen miles southwest of Hebron; khirbet Tarrameh, five miles southwest of Hebron; and khirbet Rabud, seven and a half miles west of Hebron. It may have been the most important town south of Hebron. Joshua 15:50 and Anab and Eshtemoh and Anim, Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Anab and Eshtemoh and Anim, Anab - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “grape.” Joshua eliminated the Anakim from southern Judah including Hebron, Debir, and Anab (Joshua 11:21 ). Joshua allotted the mountain city to Judah (Joshua 15:50 ). Located at modern Khirbet Anab about fifteen miles southwest of Hebron. Eshtemoh - Holman Bible Dictionary Variant Hebrew spelling of Eshtemoa (Joshua 15:50 ). See Eshtemoa . Anim - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “springs.” City given tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:50 ). Located at modern Khirbet Ghuwein at-Tahta, eleven miles south of Hebron. Joshua 15:51 and Goshen and Holon and Giloh; eleven cities with their villages. Goshen: Jos 10:41 11:16 Giloh: 2Sa 15:12 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Goshen and Holon and Giloh; eleven cities with their villages. Goshen - Holman Bible Dictionary The “land of Goshen” may have been named after the city of Goshen located in the district of Debir (Joshua 15:51 ). Goshen may have been the chief city of the region at one time. The ancient city was either located at Tell el Dhahiriyeh, twelve miles southwest of Hebron or at a location further east. Holon - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “sandy spot.” 1. Town in the hill country of Judah allotted to tribe of Judah and given as city for Levites (Joshua 15:51; Joshua 21:15 ). It may be modern khirbet Illin near Beth-zur. The parallel passage (1 Chronicles 6:58 ) has Hilez or Hilen in different manuscripts. Giloh - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “uncovered” or “revealed.” Town in tribal allotment of Judah in Judean hills (Joshua 15:51 ). David's counselor Ahithophel came from Giloh (2 Samuel 15:12 ). Some scholars locate it at khirbet Jala in the suburbs of Jerusalem, but most think Giloh was actually further south. Joshua 15:52 Arab and Dumah and Eshan, Dumah: Isa 21:11 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED Arab and Dumah and Eshan Arab - Smith's Bible Dictionary (ambush). A city of Judah in the mountainous district, probably in the neighborhood of Hebron; mentioned only in Joshua 15:62. Dumah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “silence” or “permanent settlement.” A city of the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:52 ). It is probably modern khirbet ed-Dome about nine miles southwest of Hebron. It may be mentioned in the Amarna letters. Eshan - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “I lean on.” Town in the hill country of Judah assigned to tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:52 ). KJV spells Eshean. A text tradition in the earliest Greek translation reads, “Soma,” instead of Eshan, possibly pointing to a location at modern khirbet hallat Sama. Otherwise, the location is not known. Joshua 15:53 and Janum and Beth-tappuah and Aphekah, Janum: or, Janus, Jos 15:53 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Janum and Beth-tappuah and Aphekah, Janum - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name of uncertain meaning, perhaps “slumbering.” Town in tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:53 ) near Hebron. The location is not known. KJV, NAS spelling follows vocalization by early Hebrew scribes. See Janim . Beth-Tappuah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “house of apples.” Town assigned tribe of Judah in Judean hills (Joshua 15:53 ). It is modern Taffah, about four miles west of Hebron. Aphekah - McClintock and Strong's Bible Encyclopedia Joshua 15:54 and Humtah and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), and Zior; nine cities with their villages. Kirjatharba: Jos 15:13 14:15 Ge 23:2 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Humtah and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron (See map for Hebron)), and Zior; nine cities with their villages. Humtah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “lizards.” Town in hill country of Judah in tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:54 ). Its exact location is not known. Kiriath-Arba - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “city of Arba” or “city of four.” The ancient name for the city of Hebron (Joshua 15:54 ). It was the chief city in the hill country of Judah (Joshua 15:54 ) and was both a Levitical city (Joshua 21:11 ) and a city of refuge (Joshua 20:7 ). Caleb captured the city for Israel (Joshua 15:13-14 ). Bible students dispute the origin of the name. According to some, Kiriath-Arba was originally named after Arba the Anakite hero (Joshua 14:15; see Joshua 15:13 ). Others point to the nearby cave of Machpelah where, according to Jewish tradition, Adam, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were buried—thus, “city of four.” See Levitical Cities; Cities of Refuge; Hebron Zior - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “smallness.” Village allotted to Judah, located in the hill country near Hebron (Joshua 15:54 ). Archaeological research indicates that the frequently suggested site Si'ir about five miles north northeast of Hebron was uninhabited before A.D. 400. Joshua 15:55 Maon, Carmel and Ziph and Juttah, Maon: 1Sa 23:25 25:2,7 2Ch 26:10 Isa 35:2 Carmel: 1Ki 18:42 Ziph: Jos 15:24 1Sa 23:14,15 26:1,2 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED Maon, Carmel and Ziph and Juttah, (See map for Juttah south of Hebron) Maon - Holman Bible Dictionary Name meaning “Dwelling.” 1. Descendant of Caleb who founded Beth-zur (1 Chronicles 2:45 ). 2 . Village in the hill country of Judah (Joshua 15:55 ). The site of Maon has been identified with tell Ma'in about eight miles south of Hebron in the vicinity of Carmel of Judah (compare 1 Samuel 25:2 ) and with khirbet el-Ma'in twenty-five miles northwest of Beersheba. Pottery finds at tell Ma'in demonstrate occupation from the time of David. David took refuge from Saul in the wilderness to the east of Maon (1 Samuel 23:24-25 ). Nabal, who foolishly refused hospitality to David, was a resident of Maon (1 Samuel 25:2 ). Carmel - ISB Encyclopedia A city of Judah, in the uplands near Hebron, named with Maon and Ziph (Joshua 15:55 ). Here Saul for some reason not stated set up a monument or trophy (1 Samuel 15:12; literally "hand"). It was the home of Nabal the churlish and drunken flockmaster, whose widow Abigail David married (1 Sam 25); and also of Hezro, one of David's mighty men (2 Samuel 23:35; 1 Chronicles 11:37 ). It is represented by the modern el -Karmil , about 10 miles to the Southeast of Hebron. Karmil is the pronunciation given me by several natives this spring. There are considerable ruins, the most outstanding feature being square tower dating from the 12th century, now going swiftly to ruin. There are also caves, tombs and a large reservoir. Ziph - Holman Bible Dictionary Place and personal name perhaps meaning, “flowing.” Town in the Judean hill country (Joshua 15:24 ), likely tell Zif about three miles southeast of Hebron. Mereshah likely founded the town (1 Chronicles 2:42 ). David hid from Saul in the surrounding wilderness (1 Samuel 23:14-15 ); 1 Samuel 26:2 ). Ziphites, residents of Ziph, twice revealed David's hideouts to Saul (1 Samuel 23:19; 1 Samuel 26:1 ). Rehoboam fortified the site (2 Chronicles 11:8 ). 4 . Town in the Negeb (Joshua 15:24 ), likely khirbet ez-Zeifeh southwest of Kurnub. Juttah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “spread out.” Town in hill country of tribal territory of Judah (Joshua 15:55 ) given to the Levites (Joshua 21:16 ). It may be located at modern Yatta, six miles southwest of Hebron. Joshua 15:56 and Jezreel and Jokdeam and Zanoah, Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Jezreel and Jokdeam and Zanoah - Jezreel is the name of two villages, the tribal allocation of Judah (Josh. 15:56) and the tribal allocation of Issachar (Josh. 19:18). Jezreel - Holman Bible Dictionary meaning “God sows”, refers to a major valley, a northern city (in valley of Esdraelon), a southern city (Joshua 15:57), and the son of Hosea 1:1 . Jezreel - Jewish Encyclopedia A town in the hill country of Judah not far from the Judean Carmel (Joshua 15:56). Ahinoam one of David's first two wives, was a native of this town (1 Samuel 25:43). Jokdeam - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “the people burned.” City in tribal territory of Judah, possibly modern khirbet Raqqa near Ziph (Joshua 15:56 ). Zanoah - Smith's Bible Dictionary A town of Judah in the Shefelah or plain, Joshua 15:34; Nehemiah 3:13; Nehemiah 11:30, possibly identical with Zanu'a. Joshua 15:57 Kain, Gibeah and Timnah; ten cities with their villages. Timnah: Jos 15:10 Ge 38:12 Jer 14:1 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED Kain, Gibeah and Timnah; ten cities with their villages. Kain - Hasting's Bible Dictionary . A city in the uplands of Judah ( Joshua 15:57 ), probably to be identified with the modern Khirbet Yakîn , on a hill S.W. of Hebron, with tombs, cisterns, and other traces of an ancient town. A neighbouring sanctuary is pointed out as the tomb of Cain. Gibeah - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “a hill,” closely related to names of Geba and Gibeon. Gibeah or Gibeath was the name of four different places in the Old Testament. Gibeah - ATS Dictionary A town of Judah, Joshua 15:57 , which lay about ten miles southwest of Jerusalem. The prophet Habakkuk is said to have been buried here. Timnah - Holman Bible Dictionary Village in the hill country of Judah (Joshua 15:57 ). This Timnah was the likely scene of Judah's encounter with Tamar (Genesis 38:12-14 ). The probable site lies south of Hebron about four miles east of Beit Nettif. Joshua 15:58 Halhul, Beth-zur and Gedor, Gedor: 1Ch 4:39 Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED Halhul, Beth-zur and Gedor (See map for Beth-zur in small mountains north of Hebron) Halhul - ISB Encyclopedia A city in the hill country of Judah ( Joshua 15:58 ), "Halhul, Beth-zur and Gedor." It is without doubt the modern Ḥalḥūl , a village on a hill, surrounded by fine fields and vineyards, some 4 miles North of Hebron and less than a mile to the East of the modern carriage road. It is conspicuous from a considerable distance on account of its ancient mosque, Wely Nebi Yûnas , the "shrine of the Prophet Jonah" - a tradition going back at least to the 14th century. The mosque, which has a minaret or tower, is built upon a rock platform artificially leveled. In the 14th century it was stated by Isaac Chilo (a Jewish pilgrim) that the tomb of Gad the Seer (1 Samuel 22:5; 2 Samuel 24:11 f) was situated in this town. Beth-zur ( Beit Sûr ) and Gedor (Jedûr ) are both near. In Josephus (BJ , IV, ix, 6) we read of an Alurus (where the Idumeans assembled), and in Jerome (OS 119 7) of a village Alula near Hebron, which both probably refer to the same place (PEF , III, 305; Sh XXI ). Beth-Zur - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “house of the rock.” A city allotted to tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:58 ). Rehoboam, Solomon's son and successor as king of Judah (931-913 B.C.), built it up as a defense city (2 Chronicles 11:7 ) in view of the threat of Shishak of Egypt (2 Chronicles 12:2 ). A city official of Beth-zur helped Nehemiah repair Jerusalem and its wall (Nehemiah 3:16 ). It played a significant role in the wars of the Maccabeans in the period between the Testaments. It is located at khirbet et-Tubeiqeh, eighteen miles southwest of Jerusalem and four miles north of Hebron on a major highway intersection. This is one of the highest sites above sea level in Palestine. Gedor - Holman Bible Dictionary Place name meaning, “wall.” 1. Town in hill country of Judah allotted to tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:58 ). It is located at khirbet Judur three miles north of Hebron and Beth-zur and west of Tekoa. The genealogy of Judah in 1 Chronicles 4:1 includes city names among the list of “sons.” In 1 Chronicles 4:4 , Penuel is the father or perhaps founder of the city. Joshua 15:59 and Maarath and Beth-anoth and Eltekon; six cities with their villages. Joshua 15 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE CITIES OF JUDAH IN THE HILL COUNTRY CONTINUED and Maarath and Beth-anoth and Eltekon; six cities with their villages - Madvig notes that "At this point the LXX supplies the names of eleven additional towns and in this way makes up the full twelve administrative districts from Judah alone" (The Expositor's Bible Commentary Volume 3)
Josué 15
Wiersbe - They held (JERUSALEM) temporarily later on (Jdg 1:8), and then David captured it permanently and made it the capital city (2 Sam. 5:6-10) (ED: ABOUT 400 YEARS LATER) (Be Strong - Joshua: Putting God's Power to Work in Your Life) Rod Mattoon - As we look at the inheritance, we find over 100 villages and cities were conquered and inherited by Judah. All were conquered but one. They could not drive out the Jebusites at Jerusalem (vs. 63). The problem was not that they “could not” do it, they “would not” do it. The question of the hour was not “Can we defeat them?” but “Can God defeat them?” They said, “NO!” They chose not to defeat them. A lack of courage, strength, resolve, and faith led to their eventual failure. It will lead to our failure too. God promised victory wherever their feet would tread. They did not claim His promises. Victory was eventually won 400 years later by David who had the faith and resolve to win (2 Samuel 5:6–8). The Jebusites were a constant thorn in Judah’s side until David totally defeated them. They were very arrogant, confident people. The city was difficult to take for it had steep valleys on three of its sides. They had a constant water supply from the Spring Gihon. They were eventually defeated by an attack up the water shaft. We will note an important lesson at this point. A person can be 99% victorious, but defeats in 1% of the areas of our life can become a constant problem and reproach. It is the little areas of disobedience and sinful habits that can rob you of your spiritual power, effectiveness, blessing, and victory. When we purchase items, we pay close attention to flaws, rips, and cracks. People do the same thing when they look at our life. Those inconsistencies hurt our testimony for Jesus Christ. Let me ask, “Is there one area of your life that is hurting you spiritually?” By the grace of God conquer it. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. We are more than conquerors through Him (Treasures From Joshua) Henry