Book of Joshua - Chapter 21 - Verse 18

In this verse from the book of Joshua, the mention of Anathoth and Almon along with their suburbs refers to the allocation of cities to the tribe of Benjamin. The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Jacob's son Benjamin. These cities were designated as places of residence for the tribe and their families. The inclusion of suburbs indicates that the cities were not just for living in, but also included surrounding areas for agriculture, pastures, and other needs of the community. The mention of four cities highlights the significance of these particular locations in establishing the territory of the tribe of Benjamin within the larger land of Israel. This allocation of cities was not just a geographical distribution, but also a spiritual and cultural inheritance for the tribe, connecting them to their history and identity as a people chosen by God.

When examining the verse that mentions Anathoth and Almon along with their suburbs, it is important to delve into the theological significance of these cities. Anathoth, for instance, holds a prominent place in biblical history as the birthplace of the prophet Jeremiah. This connection adds depth to the verse, as it highlights the importance of these cities in God's plan. Additionally, the mention of suburbs indicates that these cities were not isolated but had surrounding areas that were also part of their territory. The inclusion of four cities emphasizes the completeness or fullness of the allocation of land, as four is often seen in the Bible as representing the entire creation or world. Therefore, this verse provides a glimpse into the meticulous division of land among the tribes of Israel, showing God's faithfulness in providing for His people.