Book of Joshua - Chapter 15 - Verse 55
Meaning
These four locations mentioned in the verse were all cities or regions within the territory of Judah, which was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Maon, Carmel, Ziph, and Juttah were all situated in the southern part of Judah, near the wilderness of Paran. Maon was known for its vineyards and was the location where David sought refuge from King Saul. Carmel was a mountain ridge with fertile land suitable for agriculture. Ziph was a town located in the mountains of Judah, and it is mentioned several times in the Bible in connection with David hiding from Saul. Juttah was a city known for its strategic location near the border of the tribe of Judah. These locations provided context for the challenges and triumphs faced by the people of Judah and the significance of these places in biblical history.
Theological Overview
When examining the names mentioned in the verse "Maon, Carmel, and Ziph, and Juttah," a theological interpretation reveals the significance of these locations in the context of the biblical narrative. Maon is believed to be a city in the Judean wilderness where David sought refuge from Saul (1 Samuel 23:24). Carmel is known for its fertile land and was the site of significant events in the Old Testament, such as Elijah's confrontation with the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). Ziph was a town in the hill country of Judah where David took refuge from Saul multiple times (1 Samuel 23, 26). Juttah is mentioned in the book of Joshua as one of the cities given to the tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:55). These places hold historical and geographical significance in the biblical narrative, highlighting the themes of refuge, provision, and divine intervention in the lives of God's people.