Joshua 21:11

They gave them Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), with its surrounding pasturelands, in the hill country of Judah. (Arba was the father of Anak.)

Study Bible

They gave them Kiriath-arba
Kiriath-arba, meaning "City of Arba," was named after Arba, a notable figure among the Anakim, a race of giants mentioned in the Old Testament. This city was allocated to the Levites, specifically the descendants of Aaron, as part of their inheritance. The giving of this city to the Levites signifies the importance of providing for the priestly tribe, who were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a territorial inheritance like the other tribes.

(that is, Hebron),
Hebron is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich biblical history. It was a significant city in the life of the patriarchs, as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob all had connections to it. Hebron later became King David's first capital before he established Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. The renaming from Kiriath-arba to Hebron reflects its transformation from a Canaanite city to a central location in Israelite history.

with its surrounding pasturelands,
The inclusion of surrounding pasturelands was crucial for the Levites, as it provided them with the necessary resources to sustain their livestock and support their families. This provision ensured that the Levites could focus on their spiritual duties without the burden of agricultural labor, highlighting the community's responsibility to support those dedicated to religious service.

in the hill country of Judah.
The hill country of Judah is a region characterized by its rugged terrain and fertile valleys. It was a strategically important area, offering natural defenses and a central location within the tribal lands of Judah. This allocation to the Levites within Judah's territory underscores the tribe's leadership role among the Israelites and their responsibility to uphold the worship of Yahweh.

(Arba was the father of Anak.)
Arba's mention as the father of Anak ties Hebron to the Anakim, a formidable people known for their size and strength. The conquest of Hebron by Caleb, as recorded in the book of Joshua, symbolizes the triumph of faith and obedience over fear and intimidation. This victory prefigures the ultimate victory of Christ over the powers of darkness, as Hebron becomes a place of refuge and worship for God's people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Kiriath-arba (Hebron)
An ancient city in the hill country of Judah, significant as a city of refuge and a Levitical city. It was originally named after Arba, the greatest man among the Anakim, a race of giants.

2. Arba
Known as the forefather of Anak, Arba was a notable figure among the Anakim, a group of people known for their great size and strength.

3. Anak
The son of Arba, representing the lineage of the Anakim, who were formidable inhabitants of the land before the Israelites.

4. Levites
The tribe of Levi, who were given cities and pasturelands throughout Israel, including Hebron, to serve in religious duties and maintain the spiritual life of the nation.

5. Hill Country of Judah
A region in the southern part of Israel, known for its rugged terrain and significant biblical history, including being the tribal territory of Judah.

Teaching Points

Significance of Hebron
Hebron's role as a Levitical city and a city of refuge underscores the importance of spiritual centers in maintaining the faith and justice within the community.

Heritage and Legacy
The mention of Arba and the Anakim reminds us of the enduring impact of our heritage and the importance of overcoming formidable challenges through faith.

Role of the Levites
The Levites' inheritance of cities like Hebron highlights the necessity of dedicated spiritual leaders who guide and nurture the faith of the community.

God's Provision
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's provision for His people, ensuring that spiritual needs are met alongside physical ones.

Faith Over Fear
The history of Hebron, from the giants to its role in Israel, teaches us to trust in God's promises and provision, even when faced with daunting obstacles.

Bible Study Questions

1. What is the significance of Hebron being given to the Levites, and how does this reflect God's priorities for His people?

2. How does the history of Hebron, from the time of the patriarchs to its role as a Levitical city, illustrate the continuity of God's promises?

3. In what ways can we draw parallels between the challenges faced by the Israelites in Hebron and the spiritual challenges we face today?

4. How does the role of the Levites in ancient Israel inform our understanding of spiritual leadership and service in the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "giant" in your life. How can the account of Hebron and the faith of the Israelites encourage you to trust in God's provision and strength?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 23
This chapter details the purchase of the cave of Machpelah in Hebron by Abraham, establishing its significance as a burial site for the patriarchs.

Numbers 13
The exploration of Canaan by the Israelite spies, where they encounter the Anakim, highlights the formidable nature of the inhabitants of Hebron.

1 Chronicles 6
This passage lists the cities given to the Levites, including Hebron, emphasizing their role in Israelite society.

Hebrews 7
Discusses the priesthood, drawing parallels to the Levitical priesthood and the eternal priesthood of Christ, underscoring the spiritual significance of the Levites' role.