On the south side the border began at the outskirts of Kiriath-jearim and extended westward to the spring at the Waters of Nephtoah. On the south side the border began at the outskirts of Kiriath-jearimKiriath-jearim, meaning "City of Forests," was a significant location in the tribal allotments of Israel. It was situated on the border between the tribes of Judah and Benjamin. This city is historically important as it was where the Ark of the Covenant was kept for a time before being moved to Jerusalem (1 Samuel 7:1-2). The mention of the "south side" indicates the southern boundary of the territory being described, which is part of the land distribution among the tribes of Israel. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land (Genesis 15:18-21). and extended westward to the spring at the Waters of Nephtoah Persons / Places / Events 1. Kiriath-jearimA city in the territory of Judah, significant in Israel's history as a resting place for the Ark of the Covenant before it was moved to Jerusalem. 2. Spring of the Waters of Nephtoah A water source marking a boundary in the land allotment for the tribe of Benjamin. It signifies the importance of water sources in defining territorial boundaries in ancient Israel. 3. Tribe of Benjamin One of the twelve tribes of Israel, receiving its land allotment in this passage. The tribe is known for its warriors and significant figures like King Saul and the Apostle Paul. Teaching Points The Importance of BoundariesJust as physical boundaries were crucial for the tribes of Israel, spiritual and moral boundaries are essential for Christians today. They help define our identity and guide our actions. Significance of Water Water sources were vital for survival and prosperity in ancient times. Spiritually, water symbolizes life and purification, reminding us of the living water Jesus offers. God's Faithfulness in Allotment The detailed allotment of land to the tribes of Israel reflects God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We can trust God to provide for our needs and guide us in our life's journey. Historical and Spiritual Heritage Places like Kiriath-jearim remind us of our spiritual heritage and the importance of remembering God's past works in our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. What can the physical boundaries described in Joshua 18:15 teach us about setting spiritual boundaries in our lives today?2. How does the significance of water in the Bible, as seen in the spring of Nephtoah, relate to Jesus' teaching about living water? 3. In what ways does the detailed allotment of land to the tribes of Israel demonstrate God's faithfulness, and how can this encourage us in our personal walk with God? 4. How does the historical significance of Kiriath-jearim enhance our understanding of God's presence and work in the lives of His people? 5. Reflect on a time when God provided for you in a specific way. How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's provision and guidance? Connections to Other Scriptures Joshua 15:9This verse also mentions the spring of Nephtoah, providing a parallel account of the boundary descriptions for the tribe of Judah, showing the interconnectedness of tribal territories. 1 Samuel 7:1-2 Describes the Ark of the Covenant being brought to Kiriath-jearim, highlighting the city's spiritual significance in Israel's history. Psalm 78:60-61 Reflects on the movement of the Ark and God's presence, which ties back to the historical and spiritual importance of locations like Kiriath-jearim.
People Addar, Ben, Benjamin, Bohan, Ephron, Gad, Gibeon, Hoglah, Israelites, Joseph, Joshua, Levites, Manasseh, Ophrah, Rekem, ReubenPlaces Adummim, Arabah, Ataroth-addar, Avvim, Beeroth, Beth-arabah, Beth-aven, Bethel, Beth-hoglah, Beth-horon, Emek-keziz, En-rogel, En-shemesh, Ephron, Geba, Geliloth, Gibeah, Gibeon, Haeleph, Irpeel, Jebus, Jericho, Jerusalem, Jordan River, Kiriath-baal, Kiriath-jearim, Luz, Mizpeh, Mozah, Nephtoah, Ophni, Ophrah, Parah, Ramah, Rekem, Salt Sea, Shiloh, Taralah, Valley of Hinnom, Valley of Rephaim, Zela, ZemaraimTopics Begins, Border, Boundary, Edge, Ephron, Extreme, Farthest, Fountain, Goes, Jearim, Kiriath, Kiriath-jearim, Kir'iath-je'arim, Kirjah-jearim, Kirjathjearim, Kirjath-jearim, Line, Nephtoah, Nephto'ah, Outskirts, Point, Quarter, South, Southern, Spring, Uttermost, Waters, West, WestwardDictionary of Bible Themes Joshua 18:11-28Library The Northern Coast of Judea. Beth-Horon. This coast is marked out Joshua 18:12; where, at verse 14, are very many versions to be corrected, which render the sea; such are, the Syriac, the Seventy, the Vulgar, the Italian, ours, &c.: whence ariseth a sense of insuperable difficulty to a chorographical eye: when it should, indeed, be rendered of the west, as the Chaldee, Arabic, R. Solomon, &c. rightly do. We read of a double Beth-horon in the Old Testament, but one only under the second Temple... At that place that great Canaanitish army … John Lightfoot—From the Talmud and Hebraica Ramah. Ramathaim Zophim. Gibeah. Beth-El. Beth-Aven. Retiring Before the Sanhedrin's Decree. Flight into Egypt and Slaughter of the Bethlehem Children. Subjects of Study. Home Education in Israel; Female Education. Elementary Schools, Schoolmasters, and School Arrangements. Joshua Links Joshua 18:15 NIVJoshua 18:15 NLT Joshua 18:15 ESV Joshua 18:15 NASB Joshua 18:15 KJV Joshua 18:15 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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