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Book of Joshua - Chapter 19 - Verse 22

19:22
And the coast reacheth to Tabor, and Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh; and the outgoings of their border were at Jordan: sixteen cities with their villages.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Joshua describes the borders of the territory given to the tribe of Issachar. Tabor, Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh are all mentioned as points along the coast of this territory. Tabor is a mountain in the region, Shahazimah is believed to be a town in the area, and Bethshemesh is another town located within the borders of Issachar. The verse further details that the border of Issachar extended to the Jordan River, encompassing sixteen cities and their surrounding villages. This passage highlights the specific geographical boundaries of the land allotted to the tribe of Issachar by God through Joshua. By understanding the location and extent of their territory, we gain insight into the historical context of the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land.

Theological Overview

This verse from the book of Joshua describes the southern border of the tribe of Naphtali as reaching to Tabor, Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh, with the border extending to the Jordan River. These locations were significant landmarks in Israel at the time. Tabor was a prominent mountain in the region, thought to be the site of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Shahazimah is not well-known, but Bethshemesh was a Levitical city and a place where the Ark of the Covenant rested for a time. The mention of the Jordan River indicates the extent of Naphtali's territory, as the river served as a natural boundary. The sixteen cities mentioned highlight the importance of settlements within the tribe's borders, each with their own villages providing a sense of community and organization. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling his promise to give the land of Canaan to the Israelites, with each tribe receiving its allotted inheritance according to God's plan.

American Standard Version

and the border reached to Tabor, and Shahazumah, and Beth-shemesh; and the goings out of their border were at the Jordan: sixteen cities with their villages.
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