1 Then the whole congregation of the people of Israel assembled at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there. The land lay subdued before them.
2 There remained among the people of Israel seven tribes whose inheritance had not yet been apportioned.
3 So Joshua said to the people of Israel, “How long will you put off going in to take possession of the land, which the Lord, the God of your fathers, has given you?
4 Appoint three men from each tribe, and I will send them out that they may set out and go up and down the land. They shall write a description of it with a view to their inheritances, and then come to me.
5 And they shall divide it into seven portions. Judah shall continue in his territory on the south, and the house of Joseph shall continue in their territory on the north.
6 You shall describe the land in seven divisions and bring the description here to me. And I will cast lots for you here before the Lord our God.
7 The Levites have no portion among you, for the priesthood of the Lord is their heritage. And Gad and Reuben and half the tribe of Manasseh have received their inheritance beyond the Jordan eastward, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave them.”
8 So the men arose and went, and Joshua charged those who went to write the description of the land, saying, “Go up and down in the land and write a description and return to me. And I will cast lots for you here before the Lord in Shiloh.”
9 The men went and passed up and down in the land and set in writing a description of it in seven divisions. Then they came to Joshua to the camp at Shiloh.
10 Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord. So there Joshua apportioned the land to the people of Israel, to each his portion.
11 Then the lot of the tribe of the people of Benjamin according to its clans came up, and the territory allotted to it fell between the people of Judah and the people of Joseph.
12 Then their boundary goes along on the western side southward, from the Great Sea.
13 The boundary goes down to the edge of the mountain that overlooks the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, which is at the north end of the Valley of Rephaim. And it then goes down the Valley of Hinnom, south of the shoulder of the Jebusites, and downward to En-rogel.
14 Then the boundary goes in another direction, turning on the western side southward from the mountain that lies to the south, opposite Beth-horon, and it ends at Kiriath-baal (that is, Kiriath-jearim), a city of the people of Judah. This forms the western side.
15 And the south side was from the edge of Kiriath-jearim. And the boundary goes on westward to the spring of the waters of Nephtoah.
16 Then the boundary goes down to the border of the mountain that overlooks the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, which is at the north end of the Valley of Rephaim. And it then goes down the Valley of Hinnom, south of the shoulder of the Jebusites, and downward to En-rogel.
17 Then it goes down westward to the territory of the Japhletites, as far as the territory of Lower Beth-horon, then to Gezer, and it ends at the sea.
18 Then the boundary goes down to the border of the mountain that overlooks the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, which is at the north end of the Valley of Rephaim. And it then goes down the Valley of Hinnom, south of the shoulder of the Jebusites, and downward to En-rogel.
19 The boundary passes on to the north of the shoulder of Beth-hoglah. Then the boundary ends at the northern bay of the Salt Sea, at the south end of the Jordan: this is the southern border.
20 The Jordan forms its boundary on the eastern side. This is the inheritance of the people of Benjamin, according to their clans, boundary by boundary all around.
21 Now the cities of the tribe of the people of Benjamin according to their clans were Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz,
22 Beth-arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel,
23 Avvim, Parah, Ophrah,
24 Chephar-ammoni, Ophni, and Geba: twelve cities with their villages.
25 Gibeon, Ramah, Beeroth,
26 In Mizpeh, Chephar-haammoni, Ophni,
27 Rekem, Irpeel, Taralah,
28 Zela, Haeleph, Jebus (that is, Jerusalem), Gibeah and Kiriath-jearim—fourteen cities with their villages.
The True Meaning of Joshua 18
This chapter of the Book of Joshua recounts the division of the remaining land among the tribes of Israel. The author, believed to be Joshua himself, provides a detailed account of how the land was surveyed and distributed to the seven tribes that had not yet received their inheritance.
The events described in this chapter take place after the Israelites had conquered the land of Canaan, as recorded in the previous chapters. With the major battles behind them, Joshua now turns his attention to the task of allocating the remaining territory among the tribes, in accordance with God’s instructions (Numbers 26:52-56).
The chapter begins with the assembly of the entire Israelite community at Shiloh, where the Tabernacle had been set up. Joshua then oversees the process of surveying and dividing the land, ensuring that each tribe receives its rightful portion. This division of the land fulfills the promise made by God to the Israelites, as seen in passages such as Genesis 15:18-21 and Deuteronomy 11:24.
Joshua 18:1-3
The verse in Joshua 18:1-3 breaks down into several key sections. The first part states, “The whole assembly of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there.” This signifies an important moment in the history of the Israelites as they come together as a unified community to seek the guidance of the Lord at Shiloh. Shiloh was a significant place for the Israelites as it was chosen by Joshua as the central location for the distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes. The tent of meeting was where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, symbolizing God’s presence among His people.
The next part of the verse says, “The country was brought under their control, but there were still seven Israelite tribes who had not yet received their inheritance.” This highlights that even though the Israelites had made progress in conquering the land, there was still work to be done in allocating the land to the remaining tribes. The process of receiving their inheritance was crucial as it was a fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land.
Lastly, the verse mentions, “So Joshua said to the Israelites: ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given you?’” Here, Joshua is urging the Israelites to take decisive action and claim the land that God had promised to them. This serves as a reminder of the importance of faith coupled with action in receiving God’s blessings. It also emphasizes the concept of stewardship, as the Israelites were entrusted with the land to care for and cultivate.
This passage resonates with the broader theme seen throughout the Bible of God fulfilling His promises to His people. It also highlights the importance of unity and obedience among the Israelites as they work towards claiming their inheritance. This chapter in Joshua sets the stage for the division of the land among the tribes, showcasing God’s faithfulness and provision. It also serves as a call to action for believers to actively seek and claim the blessings that God has in store for them. This chapter echoes the notion of seeking God first and trusting in His plan, knowing that He will guide and provide for His people in a broader context.
Joshua 18:4-7
The division of the land among the remaining seven tribes of Israel is the context in Joshua 18:4-7. The verse reads: “Appoint three men from each tribe. I will send them out to make a survey of the land and to write a description of it, according to the inheritance of each. Then they will return to me. You are to divide the land into seven parts. Judah is to remain in its territory on the south and the tribes of Joseph in their territory on the north. After you have written descriptions of the seven parts of the land, bring them here to me and I will cast lots for you in the presence of the Lord our God.”
This section highlights the importance of organization and planning in fulfilling God’s promises. Joshua is instructing the tribes to send representatives to survey the land and divide it into portions. They are ensuring that the division of the land is done accurately and fairly by following this process. This illustrates the idea of diligent preparation and order in carrying out God’s plans, showing that careful planning is a crucial aspect of fulfilling God’s will.
Furthermore, the casting of lots in the presence of the Lord demonstrates the tribe’s reliance on God for guidance and direction. Throughout the Bible, casting lots was a way to seek God’s will in decision-making, trusting in His sovereignty to reveal the right path. Proverbs 16:33 affirms this belief, stating, “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.”
The specific mention of Judah and the tribes of Joseph in their designated territories also echoes the fulfillment of God’s promises to the Israelites. Judah was one of the prominent tribes, from which the line of David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come. The tribes of Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh, were also significant in Israel’s history. The land division was not just about geography, but a reflection of God’s faithfulness in giving his people the inheritance He had promised to them. This passage in Joshua 18 teaches us about the importance of meticulous planning, trusting in God for guidance, and the fulfillment of promises through God’s faithfulness in a broader sense. It also serves as a reminder that God’s plans are orderly and purposeful, ensuring that His will is carried out in a way that brings glory to His name.
Joshua 18:8-10
Joshua instructed the Israelites in Joshua 18:8-10 to arise, map out the land, and divide it into seven portions that will become the inheritance of the tribes of Israel. This task was essential as it would allocate the land properly among the tribes, ensuring each received their rightful inheritance as promised by God.
This division of the land among the tribes of Israel holds significant spiritual and symbolic implications. It reflects the importance of fairness, equality, and order within God’s plan. Each tribe had a designated portion of the land, tailored to their size, needs, and God’s sovereign will. This division reminds us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling his promises in a broader sense. It shows that God’s promises are not only trustworthy but are also meticulously designed to cater to the specific needs of His people.
It is worth noting that this division was a fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham in Genesis 15:18 where God promised him and his descendants a specific land. The careful organization and allocation of land also emphasize the importance of structure and organization within God’s kingdom. Each of us has a unique purpose and place within God’s grand design, just as the tribes of Israel were assigned specific portions of the promised land.
This passage in Joshua also serves as a reminder of the importance of diligence and obedience in fulfilling God’s commands. The Israelites had to arise and survey the land diligently to carry out the division as instructed by Joshua. Similarly, in our lives, we are called to be diligent and obedient in carrying out God’s will, trusting that He has a specific plan and purpose for each of us. Joshua 18:8-10 highlights the significance of God’s promises, the value of diligence and obedience, and the organization and structure within God’s kingdom. It emphasizes that God’s plans are perfect and that He is faithful to fulfill His promises to His people. We too can trust in God’s provision and sovereignty in our lives, just as the tribes of Israel received their inheritance.
Joshua 18:11-20
The continuation of the process of dividing the land among the tribes of Israel is seen in Joshua 18:11-20. The tribe of Benjamin was assigned its territory through the casting of lots. This method, as directed by God, ensured fairness and impartiality in the allocation of land among the tribes, removing any possibility of favoritism or disputes among the Israelites.
The mention of the cities of Jericho, Beth-hoglah, Emek-keziz, Beth-arabah, Zemaraim, Bethel, Avvim, Parah, Ophrah, Chephar-ammoni, Ophni, and Geba is significant as it shows the specific locations within the tribal territory of Benjamin. These cities were to be inhabited and developed by the Benjamites, providing them with not only physical land but also a sense of belonging and stability.
The distribution of land to each tribe in Israel was not merely a geographical division but held spiritual and symbolic significance. This division fulfilled the promises made by God to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the inheritance of the land by their descendants. It also emphasized the importance of unity and cohesion among the tribes of Israel, as each tribe had a designated portion of the land, yet they were all part of the greater nation of Israel.
The precision and detail in the allocation of land to the tribes reflect God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people. It serves as a reminder that God is a God of order and that He keeps His word. This act of dividing the land also signifies the importance of boundaries and territorial integrity, instilling a sense of responsibility in each tribe to maintain and cultivate their allotted land.
This passage in Joshua 18 reminds us of the importance of obedience and trust in God’s plan. The Israelites followed Joshua’s leadership and abided by the instructions given to them, which led to the successful allocation of land. It teaches us that when we submit our ways to the Lord and trust in His guidance, He will lead us to our blessings and fulfill His promises in our lives. The division of land among the tribes of Israel in the broader context of the Bible points forward to the unity and diversity within the body of Christ. Believers today, who have different gifts and callings, are united in Christ as part of His body, just as each tribe had its own portion of land yet belonged to the larger nation of Israel (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This unity amid diversity underscores the beauty of God’s plan for His people, emphasizing the importance of working together in harmony for the advancement of His kingdom.
Joshua 18:21-28
A detailed account of the cities belonging to the tribe of Benjamin is seen in Joshua 18:21-28. The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel was a crucial aspect of settling the Promised Land, as it fulfilled God’s promise to Abraham and his descendants. Each tribe was given a portion of land according to God’s instructions through Joshua. The tribe of Benjamin was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, tracing its lineage back to Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob.
The mention of various cities such as Jericho, Beth Hoglah, and Bethel among others in this passage is significant as it highlights the specific territories that were designated to the tribe of Benjamin. The city of Jericho held special significance as it was the first city conquered by the Israelites when they entered the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. The falling of the walls of Jericho was a miraculous event orchestrated by God, showcasing His power and faithfulness to His people.
The detailed documentation of the cities allotted to each tribe serves not only as a historical record but also underscores the importance of order, organization, and fairness in the distribution of resources among God’s people. It emphasizes the idea of stewardship and responsible ownership of the land given to them by God. God’s provision, faithfulness, and fulfillment of His promises to His chosen people are symbolized by this allocation of land in a broader sense. God’s sovereignty and faithfulness throughout history are reminded to us as we reflect on this passage within the context of the larger Biblical narrative. The division of the land among the tribes not only fulfilled a practical need for settlement but it also highlighted God’s meticulous planning and guidance in every aspect of the Israelites’ journey. It reinforces the idea that God is a God of order, purpose, and fulfillment of His promises, which is a timeless message that resonates throughout the entire Bible. The idea of spiritual inheritance in the New Testament parallels the division of the land among the tribes. Believers in Christ inherit spiritual blessings and promises through their relationship with Him, just as the Israelites received a physical inheritance in the Promised Land. Ephesians 1:11-14 speaks of believers being chosen and predestined to receive an inheritance through Christ, highlighting the continuity of God’s redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.
Joshua 18:21-28 serves as a reminder for us to trust in God’s faithfulness, to follow His guidance in our lives, and to steward the blessings and resources He has given us responsibly. It also encourages us to recognize and appreciate the specific roles and assignments God has for each of us within the larger framework of His divine plan. Each believer has a unique calling and purpose in God’s kingdom, just as each tribe had a unique portion of land.
After Joshua 18
The Allotment of the Remaining Land
The Israelites had now settled in the land of Canaan, but there was still more territory to be divided. Joshua gathered the people and instructed them to send out surveyors to map the remaining land. This was a crucial step in ensuring that each tribe received their rightful inheritance. The people were reminded of the importance of unity and cooperation as the surveyors went about their work. For only by working together could they fully possess the land that God had promised them. The leaders listened intently, understanding that the decisions made in this chapter would shape the future of their nation.
And so, with great care and wisdom, the land was divided among the remaining seven tribes. This was a pivotal moment, for it would determine the boundaries and settlements of each community. The people knew that their obedience to God’s plan would be the key to their prosperity and security in the years to come.
Reverend Michael Johnson is an experienced Church Minister with a profound expertise in spirituality and guidance. With a serene presence and a compassionate heart, he has faithfully served his congregation for over 20 years, leading them on a spiritual journey towards inner peace and enlightenment. Reverend Johnson’s extensive knowledge of religious philosophies and profound understanding of human nature have made him a trusted confidant and mentor to many, as he seamlessly weaves his profound wisdom into life teachings. Reverend Johnson’s calming demeanor and empathetic nature continue to uplift and heal souls, nurturing a sense of unity and tranquility within his community.