Book of Joshua - Chapter 18 - Verse 28

The verse describes the distribution of land among the tribe of Benjamin after the Israelites had conquered the land of Canaan. The cities mentioned - Zelah, Eleph, Jebusi (Jerusalem), Gibeath, and Kirjath - were allocated to the tribe of Benjamin as their inheritance. Jerusalem, known here as Jebusi, would later become the capital city of Israel under King David's reign. The mention of fourteen cities with their villages highlights the specific territory that was designated for the tribe of Benjamin within the land of Canaan. This inheritance was divided among the families of Benjamin, ensuring that each family received their portion of the land as decreed by God. This verse provides a historical account of how the land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel according to God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Within the verse detailing the inheritance of the children of Benjamin, there are several interesting names mentioned that hold theological significance. Zelah was a town in the tribe of Benjamin that served as a place of dwelling for its inhabitants. Eleph, though not much is known about it, was also a part of the inheritance of the Benjamites. Jebusi, another name for Jerusalem before it was conquered by King David, holds historical and religious importance as the eventual capital of Israel. Gibeath likely refers to Gibeah, a town infamous for the heinous acts committed there in the story of the Levite and his concubine. Kirjath, or Kiriath, was a common name for several cities in ancient Israel, often indicating a place of importance or a fortified city. These cities, along with the others mentioned, made up the inheritance granted to the tribe of Benjamin, showing God's provision for His people according to their families as a reflection of His faithfulness and promise to the Israelites.