Joshua 21:15

Holon, Debir,

Study Bible

Holon
Holon is one of the cities given to the Levites in the territory of Judah. It is mentioned in the context of the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel. The allocation of cities to the Levites is significant because the Levites were set apart for religious duties and did not receive a large territorial inheritance like the other tribes. Holon, therefore, represents the provision for the Levites' needs, ensuring they had places to live and serve. The city is also listed in 1 Chronicles 6:58, affirming its role in the Levitical cities. Archaeologically, Holon is identified with the site of modern-day Khirbet ʿAlin, though evidence is limited.

Debir
Debir is another city allocated to the Levites, located in the hill country of Judah. It is historically significant as it was previously known as Kiriath Sepher, which means "City of Books," suggesting it may have been a center of learning or record-keeping. Debir was conquered by Joshua as part of the southern campaign (Joshua 10:38-39), highlighting its strategic importance. The city's allocation to the Levites underscores the integration of religious and cultural centers within the tribal territories. Debir's mention in Joshua 15:49 and Judges 1:11-15 further emphasizes its role in Israel's history. The city's connection to learning and wisdom can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the ultimate source of wisdom and knowledge.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Holon
A city allocated to the Levites within the territory of Judah. It is part of the cities given to the Levites as their inheritance, signifying the provision for those who serve in the temple and religious duties.

2. Debir
Another city given to the Levites, also located in the territory of Judah. Debir is historically significant as a city conquered by Joshua during the Israelite conquest of Canaan.

3. Levites
The tribe of Levi, set apart for religious duties and service to God. They were not given a specific territory like the other tribes but were instead given cities within the territories of other tribes.

4. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and overseeing the distribution of the land among the tribes.

5. Inheritance
The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, including the specific provision for the Levites, which underscores the importance of supporting those dedicated to spiritual service.

Teaching Points

God's Provision for His Servants
The allocation of cities to the Levites demonstrates God's care and provision for those who serve Him. It reminds us of the importance of supporting those in ministry today.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
Just as the Levites received cities as their inheritance, believers are reminded of their spiritual inheritance in Christ, which is eternal and secure.

Community Responsibility
The distribution of Levitical cities within other tribal territories highlights the communal responsibility to support and sustain spiritual leaders and workers.

Faithfulness in Service
The Levites' role was to serve God and the community faithfully. This calls believers to be diligent and faithful in their own service to God and others.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the allocation of cities to the Levites teach us about God's priorities for His people?

2. How can we apply the principle of supporting those in ministry in our own church communities today?

3. In what ways does the concept of spiritual inheritance in the New Testament parallel the Levitical inheritance in the Old Testament?

4. How does the communal responsibility to support the Levites challenge our understanding of community and church life?

5. Reflect on your own service to God and others. How can you be more faithful and diligent in your spiritual responsibilities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter outlines the command to give cities to the Levites, providing a background to the events in Joshua 21.

1 Chronicles 6
This passage lists the Levitical cities, including Holon and Debir, reinforcing the importance of these cities in the Levitical inheritance.

Deuteronomy 18
Discusses the role and provision for the Levites, emphasizing their dependence on the offerings and support from the other tribes.