Joshua 14:15

(Hebron used to be called Kiriath-arba, after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim.) Then the land had rest from war.

Study Bible

Hebron used to be called Kiriath-arba
Hebron, one of the oldest cities in the world, holds significant historical and biblical importance. Originally named Kiriath-arba, it was named after Arba, a prominent figure among the Anakim, a race of giants mentioned in the Bible. This city was a central location in the narratives of the patriarchs, as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all had connections to Hebron. It was here that Abraham purchased the cave of Machpelah as a burial site for his wife Sarah, establishing a lasting legacy for his descendants. The renaming of Kiriath-arba to Hebron signifies a transition from its association with the Anakim to its role as a key city in Israel's history.

after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim
Arba is described as the greatest among the Anakim, a group of formidable giants who inhabited the land of Canaan. The Anakim were known for their size and strength, and their presence in the land was a source of fear for the Israelites. The mention of Arba highlights the formidable nature of the inhabitants that Joshua and the Israelites had to confront during their conquest of Canaan. This reference underscores the victory of faith and divine intervention over seemingly insurmountable obstacles, as the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, were able to conquer the land despite the presence of such formidable foes.

Then the land had rest from war
This phrase marks a significant turning point in the narrative of the conquest of Canaan. After a series of battles and military campaigns led by Joshua, the land finally experienced a period of peace. This rest from war signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan as their inheritance. It also foreshadows the ultimate rest and peace that believers find in Jesus Christ, who is often seen as a type of Joshua, leading His people into the promised rest. The cessation of warfare allowed the tribes of Israel to settle and establish themselves in the land, laying the foundation for the future kingdom of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hebron
A significant city in the biblical account, Hebron is located in the hill country of Judah. It is historically important as the place where Abraham settled and later became a city of refuge.

2. Kiriath-arba
The former name of Hebron, meaning "City of Arba." Arba was considered the greatest among the Anakim, a race of giants in the land.

3. Arba
Known as the greatest man among the Anakim, Arba was a notable figure whose legacy was significant enough to have a city named after him.

4. Anakim
A race of giants mentioned in the Old Testament, known for their formidable size and strength. They were inhabitants of Canaan before the Israelites took possession of the land.

5. Rest from War
This phrase signifies a period of peace and stability in the land after the conquest, highlighting God's fulfillment of His promise to give Israel rest.

Teaching Points

Significance of Hebron
Hebron's transformation from Kiriath-arba to a city of refuge symbolizes God's redemptive work in transforming places and people for His purposes.

Overcoming Giants
The mention of the Anakim serves as a reminder that God empowers His people to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges through faith and obedience.

Peace as a Divine Gift
The rest from war illustrates the peace that comes from trusting in God's promises and His timing. It encourages believers to seek God's peace in their lives.

Legacy and Influence
Arba's legacy as the greatest among the Anakim contrasts with the legacy of faith left by Caleb, who inherited Hebron. This challenges us to consider the legacy we are building.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the transformation of Hebron from Kiriath-arba signify about God's work in our lives today?

2. How can the account of the Anakim and their defeat encourage us in facing our own "giants"?

3. In what ways can we experience God's rest in our daily lives, as the Israelites did after their conquest?

4. How does the legacy of Arba compare to the legacy of Caleb, and what can we learn from this about the impact of our faith?

5. How does the concept of rest in Joshua 14:15 connect to the spiritual rest described in Hebrews 4, and how can we apply this to our spiritual journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 23
Connects to Hebron as the place where Abraham purchased a burial site for Sarah, establishing its significance in the patriarchal accounts.

Numbers 13
The Anakim are mentioned as part of the report by the spies sent by Moses, emphasizing the fear they instilled in the Israelites.

Judges 1
Describes the continued conquest and settlement of the land, including Hebron, by the tribes of Israel.

Hebrews 4
Discusses the concept of rest, drawing a parallel between the physical rest from war in Joshua and the spiritual rest offered through faith in Christ.