Joshua 3:1--24:33
early <07925> [rose early.]
Archbishop Usher supposes, that this was upon Wednesday, the 28th of April, A.M. 2553, the fortieth year of the Exodus from Egypt. From Shittim, where the israelites had been encamped for about two months (De 1:3), to the Jordan, was, according to Josephus, about sixty stadia; that is, between seven and eight English miles.
Shittim <07851> [Shittim.]
Jordan <03383> [Jordan.]
Jordan, called by the Arabs El Sharia, takes its rise in Anti-Libanus, about twelve miles north of C‘sarea Philippi, now Banias; and, having run about twelve miles southward, it receives a considerable stream, which is now called the Moiet Hasbeia. About 15 miles farther, it forms the waters of Merom or Semechon, now Houle; and, after running about 28 miles more, it passes through the lake of Gennesareth, and thence runs southward till it loses itself in the Dead Sea; its whole course being about 160 miles.
three days <07969 03117> [three days.]
see <07200> [When ye see.]
see <07200> [See on]
priests <03548> [the priests.]
leave <05265> [ye shall remove.]
<07350> [a space.]
before <08543> [heretofore. Heb. since yesterday and the third day.]
consecrate <06942> [Sanctify.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Pick ................. picked <05375> [Take up.]
honor ... before <01431 05869> [magnify thee.]
Moses <04872> [that, as I was.]
Instruct <06680> [command.]
wade <05975> [ye shall stand.]
listen .... words <01697 08085> [Hear the words.]
know <03045> [Hereby ye.]
living <02416> [living.]
among <07130> [among.]
drive out before <03423 06440> [drive out from.]
<0113> [the Lord.]
enter <05674> [passeth.]
<03709> [the soles.]
Lord <03068> [of the Lord.]
carrying ... ark <05375 0727> [bearing the ark.]
feet <07272> [the feet.]
Jordan .................. Jordan <04390 03383> [Jordan overfloweth.]
The ordinary current of the Jordan, near where the Israelites crossed, is said by Maundrell, to be about twenty yards across, deeper than a man's height, and so rapid, that there is no swimming against it. It has, however, two banks; the first, or inner one, is that of the river in its natural state, and the second, or outer one, about a furlong distant, is that of its overflowings, which it does when the summer's sun has melted the snow on mount Lebanon and Hermon, in the months of March and April. And this was the time which God chose that the Israelites should pass over it; that a miraculous interposition might be necessary; and that, by the miracle, they might be convinced of his omnipotence.
time <03117> [all the time.]
<06965> [rose up.]
Zarethan <06891> [Zaretan.]
[Zartanah.]
[Zarthan. the salt sea.]
The passage through the Red Sea took place in the night, when the Israelites were fleeing from the Egyptians with great trepidation: but they passed Jordan in the day-time, with previous warning, leisurely, directly opposite to Jericho, and with a triumphant defiance of the Canaanites; this passage into the promised land evidently typifying the believer's passage through death to heaven.
priests <03548> [the priests.]
stood firmly <05975 03559> [stood firm.]
Israel <03478> [all the Israelites.]
other <08552 05674> [were clean passed.]
men <0582 08147> [twelve men.]
[the priest's fees.]
stones <08147 068> [twelve stones.]
put ..... place where you camp <03240 04411> [leave them.]
appointed <03559> [prepared.]
reminder <0226> [a sign.]
children <01121> [when your.]
someday <04279> [in time to come. Heb. to-morrow.]
water ...................... water <04325> [the waters.]
memorial <02146> [memorial.]
did .... Joshua ........................... Joshua <06213 03091> [did so as Joshua.]
set up twelve <06965 08147> [set up twelve.]
day <03117> [and they are there.]
These words might be written by Joshua at the close of his life, or perhaps be added by some later prophet. It seems from this verse, that there were two sorts of stones erected as a memorial of this great event: twelve at Gilgal (ver. 20,) and twelve in the bed of the Jordan; which last might have been placed on a base of strong stone work, so high as always to be visible, and serve to mark the very spot where the priests stood with the ark. Drs. Kennicott and Shuckford, however, would read here with the Syriac, {mittoch,} "from the midst," instead of {bethoch,} "in the midst;" and render, "And Joshua took up the twelve stones (taken) from the midst of Jordan," etc. But this reading is unsupported by any MS. yet collated; and it appears wholly unnecessary.
standing .... middle <05975 08432> [stood in the midst.]
Moses <04872> [Moses.]
quickly <04116> [hasted.]
ark <0727> [that the ark.]
Reubenites Gadites ............... Israelites <01121> [the children.]
battle-ready troops <02502 06635> [prepared for war. or, ready armed.]
plains <06160> [to the plains.]
honor <01431> [magnified.]
respected .......... respected <03372> [they feared him.]
up <05927> [Come ye up.]
<03709> [the soles.]
<05423> [lifted up. Heb. plucked up. that the waters.]
As soon as the priests and the ark were come up out of Jordan, the waters of the river, which had stood on a heap, flowed down according to their natural and usual course, and again soon filled the channel. This make it abundantly evident, that the miraculous change which had been given to the river was not from any secret natural cause, but solely by the power of God, and for the sake of his chosen people; for when Israel's host had passed through, and the token of his presence was removed, immediately the waters went forward again: so that if it be asked, "What aileth thee, O Jordan, that thou wast driven back?" it must be answered, it was in obedience to the God of Israel, and in kindness to the Israel of God.
<03212> [and flowed. Heb. went.]
first month <02320 07223> [first month.]
Gilgal <01537> [Gilgal.]
That is, the place afterwards called Gilgal; for it is so called here by anticipation. It was about ten furlongs east from Jericho, and fifty west from the Jordan. See Josephus and Calmet.
Israelites .... children <01121> [When your.]
someday <04279> [in time to come. Heb. to-morrow.]
Lord ....................... Lord <03068> [as the Lord.]
The parents must take that occasion to tell their children of the drying up of the Red Sea forty years before: "As the Lord your God did to the Red Sea." It greatly magnifies later mercies to compare them with those before enjoyed; for, by making the comparison, it appears that God is the same yesterday, to-day, and forever. Later blessings should also bring to remembrance former mercies, and revive thankfulness for them.
dried ....................... dried <03001> [which he dried.]
nations <05971> [all the people.]
power <02389> [that it is.]
obey <03372> [ye might.]
<03117> [for ever. Heb. all days.]
kings ............. kings <04428> [all the kings.]
Canaanite <03669> [Canaanites.]
west ............. seacoast <03220> [which were by.]
When <08085> [heard.]
breathe <07307> [neither was.]
flint knives <02719 06697> [sharp knives. or, knives of flints.]
Before the use of iron was common, all the nations of the earth had their edge tools made of stones, flints, etc. Our ancestors had their arrows and spearheads made of flint; which are frequently turned up by the plough. And even when iron became more common, stone knives seem to have been preferred for making incisions in the human body. The Egyptians used such to open the bodies for embalming; and the tribe of Alnajab in Ethiopia, who follow the Mosaic institution, perform the rite of circumcision, according to Ludolf, {cultris lapidibus,} with knives made of stone.
circumcise <04135> [circumcise.]
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
Hill .... Foreskins <06190 01389> [the hill of the foreskins. or, Gibeah haaraloth.]
circumcised .................. uncircumcised <04135> [they had not.]
traveled <01980> [walked.]
sworn ............. see ...... sworn <07650 07200> [sware that.]
land ........... land <0776> [a land.]
sons <01121> [their children.]
<08552> [when they, etc. Heb. when the people had made an end to be circumcised. till they were whole.]
taken away <01556> [I rolled away.]
Gilgal <01537> [Gilgal.]
That is, rolling.
celebrated ... Passover <06453 06213> [kept the passover.]
produce <05669> [old corn.]
The people would find abundance of old corn in the deserted granaries of the affrighted inhabitants: and the barley harvest being ripe, after offering the sheaf of first-fruits, they ate also new parched corn; and thus the manna being no longer necessary, ceased, after having been sent them regularly for almost forty years. To Christians the manna for their souls shall never fail, till they arrive at the Canaan above, to feast on its rich and inexhaustible provisions.
unleavened bread <04682> [unleavened cakes.]
manna ................... manna <04478> [the manna.]
ate ............ ate <0398> [but they did eat.]
looked <05375> [he lifted.]
man <0376> [a man.]
sword <02719> [his sword.]
enemies <06862> [Art thou for us.]
commander <08269> [but as captain. or, Prince.]
bowed ..... face <05307 06440> [fell on his.]
say <01696> [What saith.]
<0113> [my lord.]
<05394> [Loose.]
Joshua ................ Joshua <03091> [And Joshua.]
Many persons have been puzzled to know what was intended by this extraordinary appearance of the angel to Joshua, because they supposed that the whole business ends with the chapter; whereas it is continued in the succeeding one, the first verse of which is a mere parenthesis, simply relating to the state of Jericho at the time when Joshua was favoured with this encouraging vision; by which he was shewn that their help came from God alone, and that it was not by human might or power, but by the Lord of hosts they were to obtain the victory.
shut tightly <05462> [was straitly. Heb. did shut up, and was shut up.]
because <06440> [because.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
See <07200 05414> [See, I have.]
king <04428> [the king.]
around <05437> [ye shall.]
horns ...................... horns <07782> [trumpets of rams'.]
The words {shopheroth hyyovelim,} should rather be rendered jubilee, trumpets, i.e., such as were used on the jubilee, which were probably made of horn or silver: for the entrance of the Israelites into Canaan was indeed a jubilee to them (See Note on Le 25:11): instead of the dreadful trumpet of war, they were ordered to sound the trumpet of joy, as already conquerors.
seven .... seven ................. seven times <07651 06471> [seven times.]
<04900> [make a long.]
army ............... warriors <05971> [the people.]
wall <02346> [and the wall.]
The words {wenaphelah chomath hair tachteyha,} are literally, "and the wall of the city shall fall down under itself;" which appears simply to mean, that the wall shall fall down from its very foundation; which was probably the case in every part, though large breaches in different places might have been amply sufficient first to admit the armed men, after whom the host might enter to destroy the city. There is no ground for the supposition that the walls sunk into the earth.
<08478> [flat. Heb. under it.]
Pick up ... ark ......... carry ......... ark <0727 05375> [Take up the ark.]
armed <02502> [that is armed.]
before ... Lord ................ Lord <06440 03068> [before the Lord.]
guard <0622> [and the rereward. Heb. gathering. host.]
raise ... voices <06963 08085> [any noise with your voice. Heb. your voice to be heard.]
day <03117> [until the day.]
early ..... Joshua <03091 07925> [Joshua rose.]
priests <03548> [the priests.]
marched along ....... marched ......... followed <01980> [went on.]
<05927> [about the dawning.]
On .... day ................... time <03117> [only on that day.]
cry <07321> [Shout.]
<02764> [accursed. or, devoted.]
Rahab <07343> [only Rahab.]
hid <02244> [because.]
But <07535> [in any wise.]
setting apart <02763> [lest ye make.]
make .... camp <04264 07760> [make the camp.]
disaster <05916> [and trouble it.]
silver <03701> [all the silver.]
<06944> [consecrated. Heb. holiness.]
treasury <0214> [the treasury.]
wall <02346> [the wall.]
collapsed <05307> [flat. Heb. under it.]
annihilated <02763> [And they.]
The Canaanites were ripe for destruction; and God was pleased, instead of destroying them by a pestilence, a famine, or an earthquake, to employ the Israelites as the executioners of his vengeance. Had an angel been commissioned to slay them, who would have charged him with iniquity or cruelty? In all public calamities infants are involved; and tens of thousands of infants die in great agony every year. Now, either God is not the agent in these calamities, (which opinion, though often implied in men's reasonings on these subjects, is not far from atheism;) or they must consist with the most perfect justice and goodness.
annihilated <02763> [utterly.]
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
promised <07650> [as ye sware unto her.]
brought out Rahab ............. brought out <07343 03318> [out Rahab.]
family <04940> [kindred. Heb. families. left them.]
burned <08313> [burnt.]
silver <03701> [only the silver.]
Rahab <07343> [Rahab.]
lives <03427> [she dwelleth.]
day <03117> [unto.]
hid <02244> [because.]
solemn <07650> [adjured.]
This is to be regarded as a prediction, that he who rebuilded this city should lose all his children in the interim between the laying of the foundation to the completion of the walls.
declaration <0779> [Cursed.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
famous <08089> [his fame.]
disobeyed <04603> [committed.]
Achan <05912> [for Achan.]
[Achar, Zimri. took.]
furious <0639> [the anger.]
Ai ............................. Ai <05857> [to Ai.]
[Hai.]
[Aija. Beth-aven.]
Go up .......... went up <05927> [Go up.]
three <07969> [about two. Heb. about 2,000 men, or about 3,000 men. labour.]
fled <05127> [fled.]
chased <07291> [for they.]
steep slope <04174> [the going down. or, Morad. wherefore.]
tore <07167> [rent.]
lay ... down <05307> [fell.]
evening <06153> [until the eventide.]
threw dirt <06083 05927> [put dust.]
Rending the clothes, beating the breast, tearing the hair, throwing dust upon the head, and falling prostrate, were usual signs of deep affliction and distress among the ancient Israelites. In illustration of this custom, see 1 Sa 4:12, when the messenger brought tidings to Eli of the discomfiture of the armies of Israel by the Philistines; again, in the case of Tamar, 2 Sa 13:19, and in Ne 9:1, when a whole nation, "assembled with fasting, and with sackcloth, and earth upon them." See also the case of Mordecai, Es 4:1, and Job 2:12, where his friends abased themselves to comfort him; refer also to Eze 27:30. Jon 3:6. Mic 1:10. In each of these instances it is worthy of remark, that putting dust on the head generally follows rending of the clothes, and was the usual mode of evincing poignant sorrow.
bring .... across <05674> [wherefore.]
hand ... over <05414> [to deliver.]
<03863> [would to.]
<03427> [and dwelt.]
say <0559> [what shall.]
[back. Heb. necks.]
When <08085> [shall hear.]
turn <05437> [environ.]
do <06213> [what wilt thou.]
lying <05307> [wherefore.]
lying <05307> [liest. Heb. fallest.]
Israel <03478> [Israel.]
violated <05674> [transgressed.]
riches <02764> [the accursed.]
stolen <01589> [stolen.]
<03584> [dissembled.]
possessions <03627> [among.]
Israelites <01121> [the children.]
annihilation .............. contaminated <02764> [they were.]
longer <03254> [neither.]
consecrate ......... consecrate <06942> [sanctify.]
contaminated ................... contaminating <02764> [an accursed.]
remove <05493> [take away.]
tribal .... tribe <07626> [the tribe.]
caught <03920> [he that is.]
violated ...... did <05674 06213> [he hath.]
did <06213> [wrought.]
disgraceful thing <05039> [folly. or, wickedness.]
early <07925> [rose up.]
approach <07126> [and brought.]
[Zarah.]
<03920> [was taken.]
son <01121> [My son.]
<07760> [give.]
give <05414> [make.]
Tell ..... did <05046 06213> [tell me.]
It is true <0546> [Indeed.]
saw <07200> [I saw.]
robe ... Babylon <08152 0155> [Babylonish garment.]
{Addereth shinÆ’r,} "a splendid or costly robe of Shinar," the plain in which Babylon stood. Bochart and Calmet have shewn at large, that Babylonish robes were very splendid, and in high reputation. Calmet says, they are generally allowed to have been of various colours, though some suppose they were woven thus; others, that they were embroidered with the needle; and others, that they were painted. Silius Italicus seems to think they were woven. Martial supposes them to have been embroidered with the needle; and Pliny and Apuleius speak of them as painted.
bar <03956> [wedge. Heb. tongue. I coveted.]
took ..... hidden <03947 02934> [took them.]
hidden <02934> [they are hid.]
placed <03332> [laid them out. Heb. poured.]
took Achan <05912 03947> [took Achan.]
son ............... sons <01121> [his sons.]
Valley <06010> [the valley.]
Why .... brought disaster ....... bring disaster <04100 05916> [Why hast.]
Israel <03478> [all Israel.]
burned <08313> [burned.]
erected <06965> [raised.]
Lord's <03068> [So the Lord.]
Valley <06010> [The valley.]
Disaster <05911> [Achor. that is, Trouble.]
afraid .... panic <03372 02865> [Fear not.]
Take .... army ...................... people <03947 05971> [take all.]
It would seem, from this verse, that all that were capable of bearing arms were to march out of the camp on this occasion: 30,000 formed an ambuscade in one place; and 5,000 were placed in another, who all gained their positions in the night. With the rest of the army, Joshua appeared the next morning before Ai, which the men of that city would naturally suppose was the whole of the Israelitish force and, consequently, be the more emboldened to come out and attack them. Some, however, think that 30,000 men were the whole that were employed on this occasion, 5,000 of whom were placed in ambush on the west of the city, between Bethel and Ai (ver. 12,) and, with the rest, Joshua appeared before the city in the morning. The king, seeing but about 25,000 coming against him, though he had but 12,000 persons in the whole city (ver. 25), determined to risk a battle, issued out, and was defeated by stratagem.
See I ... handing <07200 05414> [see, I have.]
Do ... Ai ....... did <05857 06213> [do to Ai.]
[See on ch.]
plunder <07998> [only the spoil.]
Set ... ambush <07760 0693> [lay thee.]
night <03915> [by night.]
ambush <0693> [lie in wait.]
very far <07368 03966> [go not.]
like <07223> [as at.]
retreat <05127> [that we will.]
lured <05423> [drawn. Heb. pulled.]
retreating from us ...... retreat <05127> [They flee.]
Lord <03068> [for the Lord.]
city set <05892 03341> [set the city.]
See ...... orders <07200 06680> [See, I have.]
Bethel <01008> [between.]
[Hai.]
spent <03885> [lodged.]
Bright and early <07925> [rose up.]
five thousand <0505 02568> [five thousand.]
Ai <05857> [of the city. or, of Ai.]
rear <06119> [liers in wait. Heb. lying in wait.]
west <03220> [on the west.]
Ai saw <07200 05857> [Ai saw it.]
realize .... hiding <03045 0693> [he wist not.]
way <01870> [by the way.]
ordered ... chase .... chased <02199 07291> [called together.]
lured away <05423> [drawn away.]
men <0376> [a man.]
Bethel <01008> [Bethel.]
Bethel is not mentioned in the Greek version, and some, with Houbigant and Pilkington, think it was not originally in the Hebrew; because, had the men of Bethel pursued, as well as those of Ai, it would have been said that they left the cities, and not the city, open. The principal strength of Bethel might have been previously taken into Ai, as the strongest place to make a stand in; Bethel being but about three miles westward from Ai.
out ..................... held <05186> [Stretch.]
curved ...................... curved <03591> [the spear.]
The word {keedon} is rendered {clypeum,} a shield or buckler, by the Vulgate but the LXX. translate it [gaison,] which Suidas says, signifies a kind of weapon, [hoion doratos,] like a spear. It may denote a short spear, javelin, or lance; for it is evident that it signifies neither the larger spear nor the shield, because it is distinguished from both.
Joshua may have had a flag or ensign at the end of the spear, which might be seen at a considerable distance when extended, which was the sign agreed upon by him and the ambush.
smoke <06227> [the smoke.]
into <03027> [and they had.]
into <03027> [power. Heb. hand.]
leaving ... survivors <07604 08300> [let none.]
Ai ................. returned ... Ai <07725 05857> [returned unto Ai.]
This must refer to the women, children, and old persons left behind; for it seems that all the effective men had sallied out when they imagined the Israelites had fled. (ver. 16.)
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
Joshua seems to have been not only the general but the standard-bearer of the army, (ver. 18,) and continued in this employment, by holding up or extending his spear, during the whole of the battle; and did not slacken from the pursuit till the forces of Ai were utterly discomfited. Some commentators, however, understand this action in a figurative sense, like the holding up of Moses' hands, as if it implied that Joshua continued in prayer for the success of his troops, nor ceased till the armies of Ai were annihilated, and the city taken and destroyed.
holding <07725 03027> [drew not.]
cattle <0929> [the cattle.]
orders <06680> [he commanded.]
mound <08510> [an heap.]
day <03117> [unto this day.]
king <04428> [the king.]
The kings of Canaan lay under the same curse as their subjects and probably were more deeply criminal. The reserving of the king of Ai for a solemn execution, would tend to strike terror into the other kings, contribute to the success of Israel, and give their proceedings the stamp of a judicial process, and of executing the vengeance of God upon his enemies.
sunset <08121> [as soon.]
large pile <01530 01419> [a great heap.]
built ... altar <01129 04196> [built an altar.]
Mount Ebal <02022 05858> [in mount Ebal.]
Moses himself had twice given express orders for this solemnity; once De 11:29, 30, in which he pointed out the very place where it was to be performed; and again, at the 27th chapter, there is a renewal of the instructions to Joshua, with special reference to minute particulars. It was a federal transaction: the covenant was now renewed between God and Israel upon their taking possession of the land of promise, that they might be encouraged in the conquest of it, and might know upon what terms they held it, and come under fresh obligations to obedience.
described <03789> [as it is.]
it <04196> [altar.]
offered <05927> [and they offered.]
people <03478> [all Israel.]
priests <03548> [priests.]
resident foreigners <01616> [stranger.]
Moses <04872> [Moses.]
read <07121> [he read.]
blessings <01293> [blessings.]
commandment <01697> [was not.]
women <0802> [women.]
resident foreigners <01616> [strangers.]
lived <01980> [were. Heb. walked. conversant.]
The word conversant, from the Latin {conversor,} is here used in the classical sense of having intercourse with.
kings <04428> [all the kings.]
side <05676> [on this.]
Mediterranean <01419> [of the great.]
Lebanon <03844> [Lebanon.]
Hittites <02850> [Hittite.]
formed <06908> [gathered.]
<06310> [accord. Heb. mouth.]
Gibeon <01391> [Gibeon.]
Jericho <03405> [Jericho.]
did ... clever <06195 06213> [work wilily.]
provisions <06737> [ambassadors.]
The word {tzir,} an ambassador, properly denotes a hinge; because an ambassador is a person upon whom the business turns as upon a hinge. So the Latin {Cardinalis,} from {cardo,} a hinge, was the title of the prime minister of the emperor Theodosius, though now applied only to the Pope's electors and counsellors.
wineskins <04997 03196> [wine bottles.]
These bottles being made of skin, were consequently liable to be rent, and capable of being mended; which is done, according to Chardin, by putting in a piece, or by gathering up the wounded piece in the manner of a purse; and sometimes by inserting a flat piece of wood.
worn-out ... sandals ........ worn-out <05275 01087> [old shoes.]
patched <02921> [clouted.]
The word clouted signifies here patched, from the Anglo-Saxon {clut,} a clout or rag; and not nailed from the French {clou,} a nail.
camp <04264> [the camp.]
come <0935> [We be.]
Make ... treaty <03772 01285> [make ye.]
{Kirthoo lanoo berith,} "cut or divide with us a covenant," or rather the covenant sacrifice offered on these occasions. (See Note on De 29:12.)
Hivites <02340> [Hivites.]
make <03772> [how shall.]
very <03966> [From a.]
reputation <08034> [because.]
heard <08085> [we have.]
two ... kings ......... King ...... King <04428 08147> [two kings.]
Ashtaroth <06252> [Ashtaroth.]
leaders <02205> [our elders.]
Take <03947> [Take.]
<03027> [with you. Heb. in your hand.]
subjects <05650> [We are your.]
bread <03899> [our bread.]
men examined ..... provisions <03947 06718 0582> [the men took of their victuals. or, they received the men by reason of their victuals. asked not.]
made ... peace <06213 07965> [made peace.]
leaders <05387> [and the.]
found out <08085> [that they heard.]
Gibeon <01391> [Gibeon.]
Kiriath Jearim <07157> [Kirjath-jearim.]
sworn an oath <07650> [had sworn.]
swore an oath <07650> [We have.]
curse <07110> [lest wrath.]
live ..... woodcutters <02421 02404> [let them.]
leaders .................... leaders <05387> [as the princes.]
trick <07411> [Wherefore.]
<03966> [We are.]
live <03427> [ye dwell.]
condemned <0779> [cursed.]
This may refer to the original curse pronounced against the descendants of Canaan: both of them seem to have implied nothing else than perpetual slavery. The Gibeonites were brought, no doubt, under tribute; performed the meanest offices for the Israelites; being in the same condition as the servile class of Hindoos, called the {Chetrees;} had their national importance annihilated, and yet were never permitted to incorporate themselves with the Israelites.
[See on]
perpetual <03772> [none of you be freed. Heb. not be cut off from you. hewers.]
In the East, collecting wood for fuel, and carrying water, are the peculiar employment of females. The Arab women of Barbary, and the daughters of the Turcomans, are thus employed. Hence Mr. Harmer concludes, that the bitterness of the doom of the Gibeonites does not seem to have consisted in the labouriousness of the service enjoined them, but its disgracing them from the characteristic employment of men, that of bearing arms, and condemning them and their posterity for ever to the employment of females.
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
terrified <03966> [we were sore.]
<05869> [as it seemeth.]
day made .............................. day <05414 03117> [made them. Heb. gave, or delivered to be.]
[Nethinim. in the place.]
[Adoni-zedec.]
did <06213> [as he had.]
people <03427> [how the.]
terrified <03372> [they feared.]
Gibeon <01391> [Gibeon.]
Gibeon was situated on an eminence, as its name imports, 40 furlongs north from Jerusalem, according to Josephus.
city ...... royal cities <05892 04467> [the royal cities. Heb. cities of the kingdom.]
King .... Jerusalem ...... King ..... King ..... King ...... King <04428 03389> [king of Jerusalem.]
Hebron <02275> [Hebron.]
Hebron was situated on an eminence, 20 miles south of Jerusalem, and the same distance north of Beersheba. It is now called El Khalil, "the well-beloved," the usual epithet which the Turks and Arabs apply to Abraham, whose sepulchral cave they still shew; over which St. Helena built a magnificent church. Its original site was on an eminence, at the southern foot of which the present village is pleasantly situated, on which are the remains of an ancient castle, its sole defence.
Lachish <03923> [Lachish.]
aid <05826> [and help.]
attack <05221> [we may.]
camp <04264> [to the camp.]
abandon <07503> [Slack.]
subjects <05650> [from thy.]
hill country <02022> [mountains.]
night <03915> [all night.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Gibeon <01391> [at Gibeon.]
Beth Horon <01032> [Beth-horon.]
Azekah <05825> [Azekah.]
Makkedah <04719> [Makkedah.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
sun <08121> [Sun.]
Joshua doubtless acted, on this occasion, by an immediate impulse upon his mind from the Spirit of God. The terms here employed to record the miracle, agree with the accustomed manner in which the the motions of the earth and sun are described in our own day. The sun apparently moves, but really is stationary; while the diurnal movement of the earth on its axis is by us unnoticed, and would not have been known except by astronomical science. The sun appeared to the Israelites over Gibeon, and the moon over the valley of Ajalon, and there they stayed in their course for "a whole day." Many vain enquiries have been made concerning the way in which this miracle was wrought, and many difficulties and objections have been urged against understanding it literally. But the fact is authenticated by the Divine testimony; and the manner in which it was accomplished lies entirely out of our province, because beyond our comprehension.
still <01826> [stand thou. Heb. be silent.]
Aijalon <0357> [Ajalon.]
[Aijalon.]
nation <01471> [until.]
Upright <03477> [Jasher. or, the upright.]
sun ............................. sun <08121> [So the sun.]
day <03117> [there was.]
Lord ....... Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Lord ....... Lord <03068> [for the Lord.]
hid <02244> [and hid.]
cave <04631> [in a cave.]
This information brought to Joshua, is an evidence that there were those of the country, who knew the holes and fastnesses of it, that were in his interests. And the care Joshua took to secure them there, as it is an instance of his policy and presence of mind, even in the heat of action; so, in the success of their project, it shews how they who think to hide themselves from God, not only deceive, but destroy themselves. Their refuge of lies will but bind them over to God's judgment.
delay Chase <05975 07291> [stay ye.]
catch <02179> [smite. Heb. cut off the tail.]
allow .... retreat ........... handing ... over <05414 0935> [suffer them.]
<03615> [had made.]
fortified cities <05892 04013> [fenced cities.]
camp <04264> [to the camp.]
threaten <02782> [none.]
[See on ver.]
put ... feet ............. put ... feet <07760 07272> [put your feet.]
afraid .... panic <03372 02865> [Fear not.]
strong <02388> [be strong.]
Lord <03068> [thus shall.]
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
hung ......... hanging <08518> [hanged.]
take ... down <03381> [they took.]
remain ..... day <03117 06106> [until this very day.]
Makkedah <04719> [Makkedah.]
Situated, according to Eusebius, 8 miles east from Eleutheropolis. It was afterwards assigned to the tribe of Judah.
lived <05315> [them.]
did ........ done <06213> [and he did.]
Libnah <03841> [Libnah.]
This city was situated in the south of Judah, and in the district of Eleutheropolis, according to Eusebius and Jerome. It is probably the Libnah in the neighbourhood of which the Israelites encamped.
[as he did.]
Lachish <03923> [Lachish.]
Lachish was also situated in the south of Judah, seven miles south from Eleutheropolis, according to Eusebius and Jerome. It appears to have been anciently a very strong place; for though the people were panic struck, and the Israelites flushed with success, yet Joshua could not reduce it till the second day; and the king of Assyria afterwards was obliged to raise the siege.
Libnah <03841> [to Libnah.]
Gezer <01507> [Gezer.]
Gezer was situated on the confines of Ephraim and Manasseh, between Beth-horon and the sea; and is evidently the village of Gazara mentioned by Eusebius, four miles (north) from Nicopolis or Emmaus.
Eglon <05700> [Eglon.]
This town appears to have been no great distance from Lachish, with which it is mentioned, ch. 15:39, as one of the cities given to Judah.
day ............... day <03117> [on that day.]
annihilated <02763> [utterly.]
Hebron <02275> [Hebron.]
king <04428> [the king.]
From ver. 23, we learn that the king of Hebron was one of the five whom Joshua slew and hanged on five trees at Makkedah. This slaying of the king of Hebron, therefore, must either refer to what had already been done, or the Hebronites had set up another, whom Joshua now slew when he took the city.
done <06213> [according.]
Debir <01688> [Debir.]
Debir was situated in the south of the tribe of Judah, near Hebron. The expression of Joshua's returning to Debir, probably denotes, that having carried his conquests in the southern parts as far as Gaza, (ver. 41,) which was in the south-west angle of Canaan, he then marched back to besiege Debir.
who ....... survivors <07604 08300> [he left none.]
land <0776> [all the country.]
annihilated <02763> [utterly.]
Lord <03068> [as the Lord.]
Kadesh Barnea <06947> [Kadesh-barnea.]
Gaza <05804> [Gaza.]
region <0776> [all the country.]
The country of Goshen, mentioned here, seems to have been in the south of Judah; and to have taken its name from the city of Goshen, situated in the same tribe.
Gibeon <01391> [Gibeon.]
Lord <03068> [because.]
camp <04264> [unto the camp.]
Jabin <02985> [Jabin.]
coalition <07971> [he sent.]
Madon <04068> [Madon.]
The LXX. read [Mar¢n,] which, if legitimate, Calmet thinks may be the same as Maronia or Marath, in Phoenicia, to the north of mount Lebanon, ch. 12:19, 20; 19:15, 25.
Shimron <08110> [Shimron.]
Supposed to be the same with Symira, in Coele-Syria, joined to Maron or Marath by Pliny and Pomponius Mela.
Acshaph <0407> [Achshaph.]
Supposed by some to be the same as Achzib or Ecdippa; from which, however, it is distinguished in ch. 19:25, 29. It was in the northern part of the tribe of Asher.
northern <06828> [on the north.]
Kinnereth <03672> [Chinneroth.]
Jerome and others suppose this city to be same as was afterwards called Tiberias, now Tabaria, situated on the western shore of the lake of the same name.
[See on]
[Chinnereth.]
[Gennesaret. Dor.]
Jebusites <02983> [the Jebusite.]
Hivites <02340> [Hivite.]
Hermon <02768> [Hermon.]
area <0776> [land.]
sand <02344> [as the sand.]
kings <04428> [all these.]
gathered <03259> [met together. Heb. assembled by appointment. waters.]
This is what Josephus calls the lake Semechon, now called Bahr-el-Houl‚ (Lake Julius) between the head of the Jordan and the lake of Tiberias. According to Josephus it was seven miles long; and according to modern authorities, it is not above two miles broad, except at the north end, where it may be four.
afraid <03372> [Be not.]
[tomorrow.]
hamstring <06131> [hough.]
horses <05483> [horses.]
by surprise <06597> [suddenly.]
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
[great Zidon. or, Zidon-rabbah.]
Misrephoth <04956> [Misrephoth-maim. or, salt pits. Heb. burning of waters.]
hamstrung <06131> [he houghed.]
Hazor ........... Hazor <02674> [Hazor.]
breathed remained <05397 03498> [any left to breathe. Heb. any breath.]
royal cities ..... kings <05892 04428> [all the.]
Moses <04872> [as Moses.]
mounds <08510> [in their. Heb. on their heap.]
The Vulgate, Syriac, Onkelos and Waterland render {Æ’l tillom,} "on their hills." As the cities of the plain might be easily attacked and carried, Joshua destroyed them; but as those on mountains, hills, or other eminences, might be retained by him with little trouble, prudence would dictate their preservation.
goods <07998> [the spoil.]
live <07604> [neither.]
Lord's .......................... Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
Moses ............................... Moses <04872> [so did Moses.]
Joshua ... Joshua did <03091 06213> [and so did Joshua.]
did ... ignore ..... commands <05493 01697> [he left nothing. Heb. removed nothing.]
land ........... land <0776> [all that land.]
hill country ............... hill country <02022> [hills.]
land ........... land <0776> [the land.]
hill country ............... hill country <02022> [the mountain.]
Mount Halak ................ Mount <02510 02022> [the mount Halak. or, the smooth mountain. that goeth.]
Seir <08165> [Seir.]
kings <04428> [all their.]
quite ... time <07227 03117> [a long time.]
Caleb was forty years old when sent from Kadesh-barnea to spy the land, and he was eighty-five at the conclusion of this war. (ch. 14:10.) Almost thirty-nine years of this time were spent before Israel passed Jordan; which leaves between six and seven for the term of Joshua's wars.
Hivites <02340> [the Hivites.]
Lord <03068> [it was.]
Lord <03068> [as the Lord.]
Anakites <06062> [the Anakims.]
Joshua ........................ Joshua annihilated <03091 02763> [Joshua destroyed.]
Gaza <05804> [only in Gaza.]
Ashdod <0795> [Ashdod.]
Lord <03068> [according to all.]
portions <04256> [according to their.]
land .................. land <0776> [And the land.]
side <05676> [on the other.]
Valley <05158> [from the.]
[unto the mount.]
Sihon <05511> [Sihon.]
Jabbok <02999> [Jabbok.]
Sea ... Kinnereth .... Sea ....... Sea <03672 03220> [sea of Chinneroth.]
This inland sea, or rather lake, which drives its several names, the Lake of Tiberias, Sea of Galilee, Lake of Gennesareth, from the territory which forms its western and south-western border, is computed to be between seventeen and eighteen miles in length, and from five to six in breadth. The waters of this lake, which are sweet and agreeable, lie in a deep basin, surrounded with lofty hills, except at the north and south, where it is a plain country or level. There is a current through the whole lake even to the shore; and the Jordan through it is discernible by the smoothness of the surface in that part. Its appearance from the north- western extremity is said by Mr. Buckingham to be exceedingly grand; but the barren aspect of the mountains on each side, and the total absence of wood, give a cast of dullness to the picture.
Sea ...... Sea ....... Sea <03220> [Sea of Tiberias. the sea.]
Beth Jeshimoth <01020> [Beth-jeshimoth.]
southward <08486> [the south. or, Teman. Ashdoth-pisgah. or, the springs of]
Pisgah, or, the hill.
territory <01366> [the coast.]
remaining <03499> [the remnant.]
lived <03427> [dwelt.]
Hermon <02768> [Hermon.]
Salecah <05548> [Salcah.]
border ............... border <01366> [unto the.]
Moses ........... Moses <04872> [did Moses.]
assigned ... land <05414 03425> [gave it.]
side <05676> [on this side.]
Baal Gad <01171> [Baal-gad.]
Seir <08165> [Seir.]
Joshua ........................... Joshua <05414 03091> [Joshua gave.]
hill country <02022> [the mountains.]
Hittites <02850> [the Hittites.]
Jericho <03405> [Jericho.]
Ai <05857> [Ai.]
Jerusalem <03389> [Jerusalem.]
Hebron <02275> [Hebron.]
Jarmuth <03412> [Jarmuth.]
Placed by Eusebius and Jerome four miles from Eleutheropolis, near Eshtaol; but, in Jermus, which is probably the same, they state it to be ten miles from Eleutheropolis, towards Jerusalem; which is supposed to be nearer the truth.
Lachish <03923> [Lachish.]
Eusebius and Jerome say it was a village in their time, seven miles south from Eleutheropolis.
Eglon <05700> [Eglon.]
Gezer <01507> [Gezer.]
Gezer appears to have situated in the tribe of Ephraim, near Beth-horon, between it and the sea. Eusebius and Jerome place it four miles north of Nicopolis or Emmaus.
Debir <01688> [Debir.]
Geder <01445> [Geder.]
Hormah <02767> [Hormah.]
Arad <06166> [Arad.]
Eusebius places this city in the neighbourhood of Kadesh, four miles from Malathis, and twenty from Hebron.
Libnah <03841> [Libnah.]
Eusebius and Jerome inform us, that Libnah was a town or village in their time, lying in the district of Eleutheropolis.
Adullam <05725> [Adullam.]
Makkedah <04719> [Makkedah.]
Bethel <01008> [Beth-el.]
Tappuah <08599> [Tappuah.]
Hepher <02660> [Hepher.]
Aphek <0663> [Aphek.]
Lasharon <08289> [Lasharon. or, Sharon.]
Madon <04068> [Madon.]
Hazor <02674> [Hazor.]
Meron <08112> [Shimron-meron.]
Acshaph <0407> [Achshaph.]
Taanach <08590> [Taanach.]
Megiddo <04023> [Megiddo.]
Kedesh <06943> [Kedesh.]
Jokneam <03362> [Jokneam.]
Carmel <03760> [Carmel.]
Dor .... Dor <01756> [Dor.]
Goyim <01471> [the nations.]
Gilgal <01537> [Gilgal.]
Tirzah <08656> [Tirzah.]
Joshua <03091> [A.M. 2560. B.C. 1444. An. Ex. Is. 47. Joshua.]
conquered <03423> [to be possessed. Heb. to possess it.]
land <0776> [the land.]
territory <01552> [borders.]
Geshurites <01651> [Geshuri.]
Shihor River <07883> [Sihor.]
regarded as <02803> [which is counted.]
five ... lords <02568 05633> [five Lords.]
The Philistine were not descended from Canaan, but from Mizraim, the son of Ham; (compare Ge 10:6 with ver. 13;) yet they were numbered with the Canaanites in this distribution.
<05761> [Avites.]
[Avims.]
Canaanite territory <0776 03669> [the land of.]
Arah <04632> [Mearah. or, the cave. Aphek.]
This is probably the Aphek spoken of in 1 Ki 20:26. 2 Ki 13:18, as the capital of the kings of Syria; and the same as is mentioned by Sozomen, Eusebius, and Theophanes, as situated near the river Adonis (now Nahr Ibrahim,) between Heliopolis and Byblos, and celebrated for the infamous temple of Venus the Aphacite. The village Afka, situated in the bottom of a valley, and hour and three quarters from Akoura, and three hours' distance from Lake Liemoun, is supposed to occupy its site. Burckhardt, however, could not hear of any remains of antiquity in it neighbourhood.
Amorite <0567> [the Amorites.]
Byblos <01382> [Giblites.]
Probably the inhabitants of the country, around Gebal, (Eze 27:9,) or Byblos, as the LXX. render, a city of Phoenicia, situated on the Mediterranean, between Sidon and Tripoli, on the north of the river Adonis. It is now called Gibyle, of Djebail, situated about a day's journey south of Tripoli. Its walls are about a mile in circumference, with square towers about every forty yards' distance. Anciently it must have been a place of no mean extent and of considerable beauty, from the ruins still visible.
Lebanon <03844> [Lebanon.]
Baal Gad <01171> [Baal-gad.]
Mount <02022> [under mount.]
<0935> [unto the.]
Misrephoth <04956> [Misrephoth-maim.]
drive <03423> [them.]
sure <05307> [only divide.]
Moses ...... assigned <05414 04872> [Moses gave.]
Aroer <06177> [Aroer.]
plain <04334> [all the plain.]
Og <05747> [Og.]
Moses <04872> [these did.]
conquer <03423> [expelled.]
[See the Note on verse 33.]
Dibon <01769> [Dibon.]
Eusebius says the city was situated in the plain of Arnon.
Bamoth Baal <01120> [Bamoth-baal. or, the high places of Baal, and the house of]
Baal-meon.
[Jahaza.]
A city near Medeba and Dibon, afterwards given to the Levites.
[Jahaz.]
[Jahzah. Kedemoth.]
Supposed to have been situated east of the Arnon.
Mephaath <04158> [Mephaath.]
Situated near the desert, east of Moab. In the time of Eusebius, he says the Romans kept a garrison there.
Kiriathaim <07156> [And Kirjathaim.]
This city, according to Eusebius, was situated ten miles west of Medeba.
[Sibman.]
Called Shibmah, Nu 32:38, and celebrated for its vines Jer 48:32. Isa 16:8, 9; on which last place, Jerome says, there were scarcely 500 paces between it and Heshbon.
Beth Peor <01047> [Beth-peor.]
<0798> [Ashdoth-pisgah. or, springs of Pisgah, or, the hill.]
Beth Jeshimoth <01020> [Beth-jeshimoth.]
cities ........ realm <05892 04468> [And all the.]
Moses <04872> [whom Moses.]
leaders <05387> [with the.]
Balaam <01109> [Balaam.]
omen <07080> [soothsayer. or, diviner.]
territory <01366> [their coast.]
Jazer <03270> [Jazer.]
A city near a brook of the same name, now called Wady Szyr; and probably the present Szyr occupies its site.
half <02677> [half.]
Rabbah <07237> [Rabbah.]
Ramath Mizpah <07434> [Ramath-mizpeh.]
Mahanaim <04266> [Mahanaim.]
Debir <01688> [Debir.]
[Lodebar.]
Beth Haram <01027> [Beth-aram.]
A city near mount Peor, and not far from the entrance of the Jordan into the Dead Sea; rebuilt and called Livias by Herod, in honour of Livia, wife of Augustus.
Beth Nimrah <01039> [Beth-nimrah.]
Succoth <05523> [Succoth.]
Kinnereth <03672> [Chinnereth.]
[Chinneroth.]
[Gennesaret.]
Ashtaroth <06252> [Ashtaroth.]
descendants ... Makir son ....... descendants ... Makir <04353 01121> [the children of Machir by.]
At verse 14, as well as here, notice is taken, that to the tribe of Levi, "Moses gave no inheritance," for so God had appointed. Nu 18:20. If they had been appointed to a lot entire by themselves, Moses would have served them first, not because it was his own tribe, but because it was God's, but they must be provided for in another manner; their habitation must be scattered in all the tribes, and their maintenance brought out of all the tribes, and God himself was the portion both of their inheritance and of their cup.
Eleazar <0499> [which Eleazar.]
drawing lots <01486> [lot.]
Though God had sufficiently pointed out by the predictions of Jacob and Moses what portions he designed for each tribe, yet we readily discern an admirable proof of His wisdom, in the orders he gave to decide them by lot. By this means the false interpretations which might have been given to the words of Jacob and Moses were prevented; and by striking at the root of whatever might occasion jealousies and disputes among the tribes, he evidently secured the honesty of those appointed to distribute the conquered lands of Canaan. Besides, the success of this method gave a fresh proof of the divinity of the Jewish religion, and the truth of its oracles. Each tribe finding itself placed by lot exactly in the spot where Jacob and Moses foretold, it was evident that Providence had equally directed both the predictions and that lot; and it would be the greatest folly and presumption not to acknowledge the inspiration of God in the words of Jacob and Moses; the direction of his hand in the lot, and his providence in the event.
Moses <04872> [Moses.]
Levites <03881> [but unto.]
descendants <01121> [the children.]
cities <05892> [save cities.]
Gilgal <01537> [Gilgal.]
Caleb <03612> [Caleb.]
Kenizzite <07074> [Kenezite.]
know <03045> [Thou knowest.]
man <0376> [the man.]
Kadesh Barnea <06947> [Kadesh-barnea.]
sent .... Kadesh Barnea <07971 06947> [sent me.]
back <07725> [I brought.]
remained <04390> [wholly.]
forty-five <0705> [forty.]
traveled <01980> [wandered. Heb. walked.]
Anakites <06062> [the Anakims.]
assuming <0194> [if so be.]
conquer <03423> [I shall.]
empower <01288> [blessed.]
Caleb <05414 03612> [gave unto.]
remained <04390> [because.]
called <08034> [And the name.]
land <0776> [And the land.]
allotted <01486> [A.M. 2561. B.C. 1443. An. Ex. Is. 48. This then was the lot.]
The geography of the sacred writings presents many difficulties, occasioned by the changes which Canaan has undergone, especially for the last 2,000 years. Many of the ancient towns and villages have had their names so totally changed that their former appellations are no longer discernible; several lie buried under their own ruins, and others have been so long destroyed that not a vestige of them remains. On these accounts it is very difficult to ascertain the precise situation of many places mentioned in these chapters; but this cannot in any measure affect the truth of the narrative.
border <01366> [even to the.]
Salt Sea <03220 04417> [the salt sea.]
<03956> [bay. Heb. tongue.]
Scorpion Ascent <04610> [Maaleh-acrabbim. or, the going up to Acrabbim.]
Zin <06790> [Zin.]
Addar <0146> [Adar.]
Probably the same as Hazar-addar, Nu 34:4.
Karka <07173> [Karkaa.]
Supposed to be the Coracea of Ptolemy, in Arabia Petr‘a Eusebius places a castle called Carcaria at the distance of a day's journey from Petra.
Azmon <06111> [Azmon.]
The last city they possessed towards Egypt; east of the River of Egypt or Rhinocorura.
Stream <05158> [river.]
Beth Hoglah <01031> [Beth-hogla.]
Probably the Bethagla mentioned by Jerome is the same as the "threshing-floor of Atad," (Ge 50:10,) situated three miles from Jericho, and two from Jordan; and belonging to the tribe of Benjamin, though serving as a frontier to the tribe of Judah.
Stone <068> [the stone.]
Debir <01688> [Debir.]
Valley <06010> [the valley.]
Gilgal <01537> [Gilgal.]
Adummim <0131> [Adummim.]
A town and mountain of Benjamin (Jos 18:17,) near Jericho, towards Jerusalem.
En Shemesh <05885> [En-shemesh.]
Situated east of Jerusalem, on the confines of Judah and Benjamin.
En Rogel <05883> [En-rogel.]
Supposed to be the same as the fountain of Siloam, east of Jerusalem, at the foot of mount Zion.
Valley ... Ben ......................... Valley <01121 01516> [valley of the son.]
A valley near to Jerusalem.
Jebusites <02983> [the Jebusite.]
Valley .... Rephaites <07497 06010> [valley of the giants.]
Situated apparently west of Jerusalem and mount Moriah.
Valley ........................... Valley ............... Valley <01516 06010> [the valley of Rephaim.]
Nephtoah <05318> [Nephtoah.]
Baalah <01173> [Baalah.]
A city near Bethshemesh, and, according to Eusebius, nine miles from Jerusalem, in going towards Diospolis.
Kiriath Jearim <07157> [Kirjath-jearim.]
Beth Shemesh <01053> [Beth-shemesh.]
Placed by Eusebius ten miles east from Eleutheropolis, towards Nicopolis.
Timnah <08553> [Timnah.]
Ekron <06138> [Ekron.]
Mount Baalah <01173 02022> [mount Baalah.]
western ..... Mediterranean Sea <03220 01419> [the great sea.]
Caleb <03612> [Caleb.]
<0704 07151> [the city of Arba. or, Kirjath-arba.]
Othniel <06274> [Othniel.]
Kenaz <07073> [Kenaz.]
Acsah <05915> [Achsah.]
got down <06795> [she lighted.]
give .... special present ..... given ........ give ... springs ...... gave ....... springs <05414 01293 01543> [Give me.]
special present <01293> [a blessing.]
Kabzeel <06909> [Kabzeel.]
Eder <05740> [Eder.]
Kedesh <06943> [Kedesh.]
Hazor <02674> [Hazor.]
The LXX. read [Hasori¢nain,] for Hazar-Ithnan, regarding these two as one city.
Ziph <02128> [Ziph.]
Eusebius and Jerome say, that Ziph was a village in their time eight miles east from Hebron.
Telem <02928> [Telem.]
Hazor <02674> [Hazor.]
Or, rather, Hazar-hadattah, or, as the LXX., Alexandrian, and Vulgate render [Has¢r L‚ kain‚,] {Asor nova,} "New Hazor," to distinguish it from the preceding (ver. 28,) and following Hazor. Eusebius and Jerome say it was a village in their time, on the eastern confines of Askelon.
Kerioth <07152> [Kerioth.]
Or, rather, Kerioth-Hezron: LXX. [hai poleis] (Alex. [polis]) [Haser¢n,] "the cities (city) of Hezron."
Moladah <04137> [Moladah.]
Probably the same as Malatha, a city frequently mentioned by Eusebius; from whom it appears to have been situated in the southern border of Judah, about twenty miles from Hebron.
Hazar Gaddah <02693> [Hazar-gaddah.]
This is apparently the city which Eusebius calls [Aser;] which he says, was, in his time, a town situated between Askalon and Ashdod.
Beth Pelet <01046> [Beth-palet.]
Hazar Shual <02705> [Hazar-shual.]
Beer Sheba <0884> [Beer-sheba.]
Biziothiah <0964> [Bizjoth-jah.]
Instead of Bizjothjah, the LXX. read, "and their towns and villages."
Baalah <01173> [Baalah.]
Ezem <06107> [Azem.]
Hormah <02767> [Hormah.]
Ziklag <06860> [Ziklag.]
Ain <05871> [Ain.]
Probably the [bethanin] of Eusebius, four miles from Hebron.
Rimmon <07417> [Rimmon.]
Eshtaol <0847> [Eshtaol.]
This town is placed by Eusebius ten mile from Eleutheropolis, towards Nicopolis: and it is supposed to be a wretched village, called Esdad, about 15 miles south of Yebna.
Zorah <06881> [Zoreah.]
A town near to Eshtaol, placed at ten miles' distance N. of Eleutheropolis by Eusebius.
Tappuah <08599> [Tappuah.]
Jarmuth <03412> [Jarmuth.]
Adullam <05725> [Adullam.]
Socoh <07755> [Socoh.]
Eusebius says, there were two cities of Socoh, an upper and lower, nine miles from Eleutheropolis, towards Jerusalem.
Azekah <05825> [Azekah.]
Eusebius and Jerome say there was a town of this name in their time, between Jerusalem and Eleutheropolis.
Shaaraim <08189> [Sharaim.]
Adithaim <05723> [Adithaim.]
Eusebius mentions two cities, called Adatha, one towards Gaza, and the other east of Lydda.
Gederothaim <01453> [and Gede-rothaim. or, or. fourteen cities.]
There are fifteen in all; but the two last seem to be only two names of the same city.
Mizpah <04708> [Mizpeh.]
Joktheel <03371> [Joktheel.]
Lachish <03923> [Lachish.]
Bozkath <01218> [Bozkath.]
Eglon <05700> [Eglon.]
Makkedah <04719> [Makkedah.]
Libnah <03841> [Libnah.]
Ether <06281> [Ether.]
Keilah <07084> [Keilah.]
Aczib <0392> [Achzib.]
Mareshah <04762> [Mareshah.]
Ekron <06138> [Ekron.]
vicinity <03027> [near. Heb. by the place of.]
Gaza <05804> [Gaza.]
Stream <05158> [the river.]
Jattir <03492> [Jattir.]
Kiriath Sannah <07158> [Kirjath-sannah.]
Goshen <01657> [Goshen.]
Giloh <01542> [Giloh.]
Dumah <01746> [Dumah.]
Janim <03241> [Janum. or, Janus.]
Kiriath Arba <07153> [Kirjath-arba.]
Maon <04584> [Maon.]
Carmel <03760> [Carmel.]
Ziph <02128> [Ziph.]
Timnah <08553> [Timnah.]
Gedor <01446> [Gedor.]
Kiriath Baal <07154> [Kirjath-baal.]
Beth Arabah <01026> [Beth-arabah.]
city of Salt <05898> [the city of.]
This city was situated somewhere in the vicinity, west of the lake Asphaltites; and supposed by some to be the same as Zoar.
En Gedi <05872> [En-gedi.]
En-gedi, or Hazazon-Tamar, was situated, according to Eusebius, in the desert west of the Dead Sea. Josephus says it was 300 stadia from Jerusalem, and not far from the lake Asphaltites; and consequently it could not have been far from Jericho and the mouth of the Jordan. It was celebrated for the abundance of its palm-trees.
extended <03318> [fell. Heb. went forth. the water.]
Bethel <01008> [Beth-el.]
Arkite <0757> [Archi.]
Beth Horon <01032> [Beth-horon.]
Eusebius says that the two Beth-horons were twelve miles from Jerusalem, towards Nicopolis or Emmaus: of which the one, called upper Beth-horon, from its situation, was built (rebuilt) by Solomon, and the other, called nether Beth-horon, was given to the Levites. Josephus places Beth-oron about 100 furlongs from Jerusalem. Dr. Clarke mentions an Arab village called Bethoor, about twelve miles from Jerusalem, a small distance from Rama, which he supposes, from its situation on a hill, to be Beth-horon the upper.
Gezer <01507> [Gezer.]
Probably the [gazara] of Eusebius, four miles from Nicopolis.
westward .................... sea <03220> [the sea]
Ataroth Addar <05853> [Ataroth-addar.]
Micmethath <04366> [Michmethah.]
Taanath Shiloh <08387> [Taanath-shiloh.]
Placed by Eusebius ten miles of Neapolis or Shechem.
Janoah <03239> [Janohah.]
Eusebius calls it [Iano,] in Acrabatene, twelve miles east from Neapolis.
Ataroth <05852> [Ataroth.]
Jericho <03405> [Jericho.]
Tappuah <08599> [Tappuah.]
Valley ... Kanah <07071 05158> [river Kanah.]
westward ........... sea <03220> [the sea.]
conquer <03423> [they drave.]
Canaanites living ..... Canaanites live <03669 03427> [the Canaanites dwell.]
firstborn son ........... firstborn <01060> [the firstborn.]
Makir <04353> [Machir.]
Gilead ........... Gilead <01568> [Gilead.]
rest ....... assigned <03498> [the rest.]
descendants ........... descendants .............. descendants .... son <01121> [the children.]
Abiezer <044> [Abiezer.]
[Jeezer. children of Asriel.]
descendants ........... descendants ....... Hepher ........ descendants .... son <02660 01121> [children of Hepher.]
Eleazar <0499> [Eleazar.]
told <03068 06680> [The Lord commanded.]
ten shares <06235 02256> [ten portions.]
As there were six sons and five daughters, among whom this division was to be made, there should be eleven portions: but Zelophehad, son of Hepher, having left five daughters in his place, neither he nor Hepher is reckoned. The lot of Manasseh therefore was divided into ten parts; five for the five sons of Gilead, Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, and Shemida; and five for the five daughters of Zelophehad, Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah.
land <0776> [beside.]
Asher <0836> [Asher.]
Eusebius says this was a town in his time not far from Neapolis, towards Scythopolis or Bethshan; between which towns it is also placed by the old Jerusalem Itinerary.
Micmethath <04366> [Michmethah.]
Situated, probably, east of Shechem, though its precise situation, as well as that of many others, cannot, at this distance of time, be ascertained. Many of these towns were small, and we may rationally conclude, slightly built; and consequently have perished more than two thousand years ago. It would therefore be useless now to look for such places; though in many instances, their ancient names have been preserved, and their sites identified. Several towns even in England, mentioned by C‘sar and other ancient writers, are no longer discernible; several have changed their names, and not a few their situation.
Shechem <07927> [Shechem.]
Tappuah ...... Tappuah <08599> [of Tappuah.]
[river Kanah. or, brook of reeds.]
The brook Kanah seem to be what is now called Nahr el Kasab, which falls into the Mediterranean a few miles south of C‘sarea of Palestine, mentioned by the Hon. C. L. Irby, and J. Mangles.
cities ..... cities <05892> [these cities.]
ended <08444> [the out-goings.]
sea <03220> [the sea. The Mediterranean.]
Manasseh <04519> [Manasseh.]
Beth-shean, the Scythopolis of the Greek and Roman writers, was situated in the plain of Jordan, west of that river, 120 furlongs (south) from Tiberias, according to Josephus, and 600 furlongs (north) from Jerusalem. (2 Mac 12:29.) It was the largest city of the Decapolis, and the only one on that side of Jordan. It is now called Bisan, 8 hours or 24 miles from Tiberias; and described by Dr. Richardson, exclusive of its ruins, as a "collection of miserable hovels, containing 200 inhabitants." .# 1Sa 31:10,12
[Beth-shan.]
Ibleam <02991> [Ibleam.]
[Bileam.]
Dor <01756> [Dor.]
Dor, according to Eusebius, was situated on the Mediterranean, nine miles from C‘sarea Palestine, towards Carmel. The village of Tortura, four leagues north of C‘sarea, is supposed to nearly occupy it site.
En Dor <05874> [Endor.]
Taanach <08590> [Taanach.]
Megiddo <04023> [Megiddo.]
strong <02388> [waxen strong.]
Canaanites <05414 03669> [put the.]
one ... allotment <01486 0259> [one lot.]
many <07227> [a great.]
many <07227> [If thou be.]
Perizzites <06522> [the Perizzites.]
Rephaites <07497> [giants. or, Rephaims.]
chariots <07393> [chariots.]
Beth Shean <01052> [Beth-shean.]
Jezreel <03157> [Jezreel.]
many .... great <07227> [Thou art a great.]
hill country <02022> [the mountain.]
conquer <03423> [for thou shalt.]
Shiloh <07887> [Shiloh.]
Shiloh was situated on a hill in the tribe of Ephraim, though near the borders of Benjamin, about fifteen miles north of Jerusalem, and, according to Eusebius, twelve, or according to Jerome, ten miles (south) from Shechem or Nablous. It was but a little north from Bethel or Ai, and near the road from Shechem to Jerusalem. (Jud 21:19.) In Jerome's time, Shiloh was ruined; and nothing remarkable was extant, but the foundations of the altar of burnt offerings which had been erected when the tabernacle stood there.
<07931> [set up.]
put off <07503> [How long are.]
three <07969> [three.]
make a map <03789> [describe.]
Judah ... stay .............. its <03063 05975> [Judah shall.]
family <01004> [the house.]
will draw <03384> [that I may cast.]
Levites <03881> [the Levites.]
Gad <01410> [and Gad.]
<03212> [Go.]
<07993> [that I may here.]
mapped it ..... out <03789> [described.]
The surveyors seem to have formed some kind of map of the country, as well as a description of it in writing. The Egyptians, from the situation of their fields, as annually overflowed by the Nile, acquired great skill in mensuration and land surveying; and some of the Israelites had, no doubt, learned these from them, without a knowledge of which they could not properly have divided the land. This is probably the first act of surveying on record.
seven <07651> [into seven.]
drew lots <07993 01486> [cast lots.]
before ... Lord <06440 03068> [before the Lord.]
Benjamin .......... Judah ... Joseph <01121> [between the children.]
Jericho <03405> [Jericho.]
desert <04057> [the wilderness.]
Luz .... slope ... Luz <03870 03802> [side of Luz.]
Beth Horon <01032> [Beth-horon.]
Kiriath Baal <07154> [Kirjath-baal.]
Nephtoah <05318> [Nephtoah.]
Valley ................... Valley <01516 01121> [the valley of the son.]
Valley ........ Valley .... Rephaites ......... Valley <01516 07497 06010> [the valley of the giants. See on ch.]
Jebusites <02983> [Jebusi.]
Mount zion, south of Jerusalem; for Jebusi or Jebus was the ancient name of that city.
En Rogel <05883> [En-rogel.]
En Shemesh <05885> [En-shemesh.]
The fountain of the Sun; whether a town, or simply a fountain, is uncertain.
Geliloth <01553> [Geliloth.]
Geliloth is probably the same as Gilgal; though as the word may signify border or limits, some think that it is probably not the proper name of a place: "And went forth towards the borders which are over against the ascent to Adummim." Others render Geliloth circuits or roundings, or the hills about Jordan, {tumuli Jordanis.} Vulgate: {pertransit usque ad tumulos.}
Stone <068> [the stone.]
Arabah ......... Arabah <06160> [Arabah. or, the plain.]
tip <03956> [bay. Heb. tongue.]
Salt <04417> [the salt.]
southern <05045> [this was the.]
The borders of this tribe on the north were the same as those of Ephraim on the south, and his southern boundaries the same as the northern borders of Judah; but drawn from west to east, instead of from east to west (ch. 15:1-12; ch. 16.) As the inheritance of Benjamin did not extend to the Mediterranean sea, and no other sea or lake is known to have been in those parts, perhaps this depression, "compassed the corner of the sea southward," (ver. 14,) should be rendered, "made a circuit on the side next the sea towards the south;" for it seems to connect the northern border, in the preceding verses, with the southern which follows.
Jericho <03405> [Jericho.]
Beth Hoglah <01031> [Beth-hoglah.]
Beth Arabah <01026> [Beth-arabah.]
Zemaraim <06787> [Zemaraim.]
Bethel <01008> [Beth-el.]
Ophrah <06084> [Ophrah.]
Situated, according to Eusebius, five miles east of Bethel.
Ophni <06078> [Ophni.]
Probably the same as Gophna (['Ayin] being often pronounced as G); which, according to Josephus, was about fifteen miles from Jerusalem, towards Shechem, says Eusebius, (Onom. in [pharaux botrous.])
Geba <01387> [Gaba.]
Gaba or Geba, according to Josephus, was not far from Rama, forty stadia from Jerusalem, and, according to Eusebius, five miles from Gophna, towards Shechem.
Gibeon <01391> [Gibeon.]
Ramah <07414> [Ramah.]
Situated, according to Eusebius, six miles from Jerusalem towards Bethel; though Jerome places it near Gaba, seven miles from Jerusalem.
[Ramathaim-zophim.]
[Arimathea. Beeroth.]
Eusebius says Beeroth was seven miles from Jerusalem, towards Nicopolis or Emmaus. Jerome, however, reads Neapolis or Shechem; but Reland prefers the former.
Mizpah <04708> [Mizpeh.]
Situated not far from Rama, forty stadia from Jerusalem.
Kephirah <03716> [Chephirah.]
Zelah <06762> [Zelah.]
Jebusite <02983> [Jebusi.]
Gibeah <01394> [Gibeath.]
[Gibeah. according.]
second lot <01486 08145> [second lot.]
[Beer-sheba, Sheba, and Moladah.]
[Bilhah, Ezem, Tolad, Bethuel.]
Hazar Shual <02705> [Hazar-shual.]
Eltolad <0513> [Eltolad.]
Hormah <02767> [Hormah.]
Ziklag <06860> [Ziklag.]
Hazar Susah <02701> [Hazar-susah.]
[Hazar-susim.]
Beth Lebaoth <01034> [Beth-lebaoth.]
Ain <05871> [Ain.]
Rimmon <07417> [Remmon.]
[Rimmon. Ether.]
Baalath Beer <01192> [Baalath-beer.]
Ramah <07414> [Ramath.]
[Ramoth.]
large <07227> [too much.]
<01121> [therefore.]
third <07992> [third.]
Zebulun <02074> [Zebulun.]
valley <05158> [the river.]
The river Kishon, which empties itself into the Mediterranean near mount Carmel, in the vicinity of which Jokneam was situated.
Jokneam <03362> [Jokneam.]
[Jokmeam.]
Kisloth Tabor <03696> [Chisloth-tabor.]
Called Chasalus by Eusebius and Jerome, and placed at the foot of mount Tabor, eight miles east of Dioc‘sarea.
Daberath <01705> [Daberath.]
Josephus, who calls this town Dabaritta, or Darabitta, places it in the plain of Jezreel, or Esdraelon, on the confines of Samaria and Galilee. It is probably the Dabira which Jerome place towards amount Tabor, in the district of Dioc‘sarea; and the Debora or Daboura, mentioned by travellers as a village at the foot of mount Tabor.
[Dabareh.]
Japhia <03309> [Japhia.]
Probably Japha, a city of Galilee, near Jotapata, mentioned by Josephus.
Gath Hepher <01662> [Gittah-hepher.]
Placed by Jerome two miles from Sephoris, or Dioc‘sarea, towards Tiberias.
[Gath-hepher. methoar. or, which is drawn.]
Kattah <07005> [Kattath, etc.]
[Nahalol. Shimron.]
Bethlehem <01035> [Beth-lehem.]
Jezreel <03157> [Jezreel.]
Kesulloth <03694> [Chesulloth.]
Probably the same as Chisloth-tabor.
Shunem <07766> [Shunem.]
Hapharaim <02663> [Hapharaim.]
A town called Aiphraim, in the time of Eusebius, six miles north of Legio.
[Shihon.]
A town called Seon by Eusebius, at the foot of mount Tabor.
En Gannim <05873> [En-gannim.]
Tabor <08396> [Tabor.]
Beth Shemesh <01053> [Beth-shemesh.]
The lot Asher lay upon the coast of the great sea. We read of only one remarkable person of this tribe, and that was Anna, the prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, a widow of about four-score and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
Helkath <02520> [Helkath.]
Beten <0991> [Beten.]
Probably the same as Bebeten or Batnai, mentioned by Eusebius, eight miles east from Ptolemais; and perhaps the Ecbatana which Pliny places not far from Ptolemais.
Acshaph <0407> [Achshaph.]
Mishal <04861> [Misheal.]
Situated, according to Eusebius, near mount Carmel, on the sea coast.
[Marshal. Carmel.]
Beth Dagon <01016> [Beth-dagon.]
Zebulun <02074> [Zebulun.]
Situated on the sea coast, near Ptolemais.
Valley <01516> [valley.]
Cabul <03521> [Cabul.]
Supposed to be the same town which Josephus calls [Choboulo,] and which he says was situated near the sea side, near Ptolemais.
Rehob <07340> [Rehob.]
Kanah <07071> [Kanah.]
This seems a different Cana from that in Lower Galilee; and to be that which is placed in some maps east of Tyre, between Libanus and Antilibanus, and south of the river Cassimer, or Leitani.
[Cana. great.]
Ramah <07414> [Ramah.]
Probably the Rama mentioned by Theodoret as a city of Syria; and placed in some maps between Sarepta and Sidon, eastward, near Lebanon.
Tyre <06865> [Tyre. Heb. Tzor.]
Aczib <0392> [Achzib.]
Aphek <0663> [Aphek.]
Rehob <07340> [Rehob.]
Zaanannim <06815> [Zaanannim.]
[Zaanaim.]
turned <07725> [turneth.]
Aznoth Tabor <0243> [Aznoth-tabor.]
Apparently the same as Azanoth, which Eusebius places in the plain not far from Dioc‘sarea or Sephoris.
<03063> [Judah.]
As it is certain that the tribe of Naphtali did not border upon that of Judah, there being several tribes between, we should probably omit Judah, with the Septuagint; though it may have been a town so called.
Hammath <02575> [Hammath.]
[Hamath. Chinnereth.]
[Chinneroth.]
[Gennesaret.]
Hazor <02674> [Hazor.]
Kedesh <06943> [Kedesh.]
Beth Anath <01043> [Beth-anath.]
Eusebius mentions a town of the name of [Batanaian,] fifteen miles from C‘sarea. (Dioc‘sarea or Sephoris probably.)
Beth Shemesh <01053> [Beth-shemesh.]
Zorah <06881> [Zorah.]
Situated on the frontiers of Dan and Judah, tens miles north from Eleutheropolis, towards Nicoplis, according to Eusebius, not far from Caphar Sorek.
[Zoreah.]
Ir Shemesh <05905> [Irshemesh.]
Supposed by some to be the same as Beth-shemesh in the tribe of Judah; but this latter city is evidently distinguished from it by being assigned by the tribe of Judah to the Levites. (ch. 21:16.) Ir-shemesh rendered [polis Sammaus] by the LXX., seems to be the same as Emmaus or Nicopolis, 22 miles south-east from Lydda, according to the Old Jerusalem Itinerary.
Shaalabbin <08169> [Shaalabbin.]
Eusebius calls it [Salaba,] and places it in Samaria: and Jerome calls it Salebi, (Eze 48,) and joins it to Ajalon and Emmaus.
[Shaalbim. Ajalon.]
This appears to be the Ajalon which Jerome places two miles from Nicopolis or Emmaus, in the road to Jerusalem.
Timnah <08553> [Thimnathah.]
[Timnath. Ekron.]
Ekron is placed by Eusebius between Ashdod and Jamnia, eastward; and probably the ruined village of Tookrair, mentioned by Dr. Richarson, situated on the top of a hill, and which he says seems to have been a place of considerable consequence, occupies its site.
Gibbethon <01405> [Gibbethon.]
Baalath <01191> [Baalath.]
Gath Rimmon <01667> [Gath-rimmon.]
front <04136> [before. or, over against. Japho. or, Joppa.]
territory <01366> [the coast.]
Leshem .................. it ... renamed <03959 07121> [called Leshem.]
[Laish.]
gave <05414> [gave.]
Timnath <08556> [Timnath-serah.]
[Timnath-heres.]
land <05159> [These are.]
Shiloh <07887> [in Shiloh.]
instructed <01696> [spake.]
select <05414> [Appoint.]
[your refuge.]
entrance <06607> [at the entering.]
bring <0622> [take.]
stay <03427> [that he may.]
So ... selected <06942> [appointed. Heb. sanctified. Kedesh.]
Kedesh, called Cadesa, or Caidesa, by Josephus, was situated in Upper Galilee, twenty miles south-east from Tyre, according to Eusebius. The cities of refuge were distributed through the land at proper distances from each other, that they might be convenient to every part of the land; and it is said they were situated on eminences, that they might be easily seen at a distance; the roads leading to them being broad, even, and always kept in good repair. Kedesh and Hebron were at the two extremities of the land, the former being in Galilee, and the latter in Judah, both in mountainous districts, and Shechem was in mount Ephraim, nearly in the centre. Bezer was east of Jordan, in the eastern part of the plain opposite Jericho; Ramoth was about the midst of the country of the two tribes and a half, being about the middle of the mountains of Gilead; and Golan, the capital of Gaulonitis, was situated in the tribe of Manasseh, in the land of Bashan. As this institution is considered as a type of Christ, some expositors observe a significancy in the names of these cities with application to Him as Our Refuge. Kedesh signifies holy, and our refuge is the holy Jesus. Shechem, a shoulder, "and the government is upon his shoulder." Hebron, fellowship, and believers are called into the fellowship of Christ Jesus our Lord. Bezer, a fortification, for he is a strong hold to all them that trust in him. Ramoth, high, or exalted, for him hath God exalted with his own right hand. Golan, joy, or exultation, for in him all the saints are justified, and shall glory.
Shechem <07927> [Shechem.]
Kiriath Arba <07153> [Kirjath-arba.]
hill country ....... hill country ............ hill country <02022> [mountain.]
Bezer <01221> [Bezer.]
Ramoth <07216> [Ramoth.]
Golan <01474> [Golan.]
cities <05892> [the cities.]
reviewed <05975> [until he stood.]
leaders ................... leaders <07218> [the heads.]
Eleazar <0499> [Eleazar.]
Shiloh <07887> [Shiloh.]
Lord <03068> [The Lord.]
Levites <03881> [unto the Levites.]
descendants <01121> [the children.]
tribes <04294> [the tribe.]
These tribes furnished more habitation to the Levites, in proportion, than any of the other tribes, because they possessed a more extensive inheritance, agreeably to what Moses had commanded (Nu 35:8.) It is worthy of remark, that the principal part of this tribe, whose business was to minister at the sanctuary, which sanctuary was afterwards established at Jerusalem, had their appointment nearest to that city; so that they were always within reach of the sacred work which God had appointed them.
lot <01486> [by lot.]
Lord <03068> [as the Lord.]
cities <05892> [these cities.]
listed <07121> [mentioned. Heb. called.]
assigned <05414> [And they.]
<0704 07151> [the city of Arba. or, Kirjath-arba.]
Hebron <02275> [is Hebron.]
hill country <02022> [in the hill.]
assigned <05414> [they gave.]
Hebron <02275> [Hebron.]
city <05892> [a city.]
Libnah <03841> [Libnah.]
Jattir <03492> [Jattir.]
Jattir or Jether, according to Eusebius, was situated in the district of Daroma, or the southern part of Judah, 20 miles (south) from Eleutheropolis, towards the city of Malatha.
Eshtemoa <0851> [Eshtemoa.]
Eusebius says Eshtemoa, or Esthema, was a great city in the south of Judah, and in the district of Eleutheropolis, north of that city.
[Eshtemoh.]
Holon <02473> [Holon.]
[Hilen. Debir.]
Ain <05871> [Ain.]
[Ashan. Juttah.]
Eusebius says Juttah was a great town 18 miles south from Eleutheropolis.
Beth Shemesh <01053> [Beth-shemesh.]
Gibeon <01391> [Gibeon.]
Geba <01387> [Geba.]
[Gaba.]
Anathoth <06068> [Anathoth.]
Anathoth was situated about three miles northward from Jerusalem according to Eusebius and Jerome (in Jer ch. 1:20;) or twenty furlongs, according to Josephus. Ant. I. viii. c. 10.
Almon <05960> [Almon.]
[Alemeth.]
Shechem <07927> [Shechem.]
Gezer <01507> [Gezer.]
Beth Horon <01032> [Beth-horon.]
Eltekeh <0514> [Eltekeh.]
Gibbethon <01405> [Gibbethon.]
Probably the Gabatha mentioned by Eusebius and Jerome, as situated in the south of Judah, 12 miles from Eleutheropolis, where the prophet Habakkuk's sepulchre was shown.
Aijalon <0357> [Aijalon.]
[Ajalon.]
Gath Rimmon <01667> [Gathrimmon.]
Gathrimmon is said by Jerome to be a great town 10 miles from Diospolis, or Lydda, towards Eleutheropolis.
Aner and Bileam are mentioned in Chronicles, instead of Tanach and Gath-rimmon. (1 Ch 6:70.) Either the cities had at this time different names, or afterwards their names were changed; or the Levites, being by some means dispossessed of the cities first assigned them, received others from their brethren. A careful examination of the marginal references will discover other variations of this kind, which may be accounted for in the same manner.
Taanach <08590> [Tanach.]
<01121> [And unto.]
Golan <01474> [Golan.]
Beeshtarah <01203> [Beesh-terah.]
It is very probable that Beesh-terah is a contraction of {baith ashtaroth,} "the house of Ashtaroth," and the same as Ashtaroth, which is the reading in 1 Ch 6:71.
Daberath <01705> [Dabareh.]
Jarmuth <03412> [Jarmuth.]
This seems to be the same city with Remeth, Jos 10:19, 21, and Ramoth, 1 Ch 6:73, mentioned with Engannim.
Mishal <04861> [Mishal.]
[Misheal.]
[Mashal.]
Rehob <07340> [Rehob.]
See the note on Nu 13:21.
Kedesh <06943> [Kedesh.]
Hammoth Dor <02576> [Hammoth-dor.]
Supposed by many to be the same as Tiberias; so called from the hot-baths, as the word {Chammoth} may denote, in its vicinity.
[Hammath. Kartan.]
Supposed to be the same as Kirjathaim.
clans <04940> [And unto.]
Jokneam <03362> [Jokneam.]
Dimnah <01829> [Dimnah.]
This and the following verse are wholly omitted by the Masora, and many Hebrew Bibles which are esteemed very highly; though, without them, neither the twelve cities of the Merarites in particular (ver. 40,) nor the forty-eight Levitical cities in general (ver. 41), nor the six cities of refuge, can be made up. But these two verses, are thus absolutely necessary for the truth and consistency of this chapter, are happily preserved in no less than 149 MSS. collated by Dr. Kennicott, and upwards of 40 collated by De Rossi.
Bezer <01221> [Bezer.]
Jahaz <03096> [Jahazah.]
[Jahzah.]
Ramoth <07433> [Ramoth.]
Mahanaim <04266> [Mahanaim.]
Heshbon <02809> [Heshbon.]
Jazer <03270> [Jazer.]
[Jaazer.]
within <08432> [within.]
forty-eight <0705> [forty.]
At the last census, the tribe of Levi amounted only to 23,000 (Nu 36:62); and it is thought by some that forty-eight cities was too great a proportion for this tribe. But it should be considered, that cities in ancient times were little more than villages.
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
Reubenites <07206> [Reubenites.]
We have already seen, that a detachment of 40,000 men, of the tribes of Reuben and Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, had passed over Jordan armed, with their brethren, according to their agreement with Moses. The war being now concluded, the land divided, and their brethren settled, Joshua assembles these warriors; and with commendations for their services and fidelity, he dismisses them, having fist given them the most pious and suitable instructions. They had now been about seven years absent from their respective families; and though there was only the river Jordan between the camp of Gilgal and their own inheritance, yet it does not appear that they had, during that time, ever revisited their home, which they might have done at any time of the year, except the harvest, as the river was at other times easily fordable.
carried out <08104> [Ye have.]
<08085> [obeyed.]
secure <05117> [given rest.]
<03212> [get.]
<03966> [take.]
Love <0157> [love.]
loyal <01692> [cleave.]
serve <05647> [serve.]
<07725> [Return.]
Divide <02505> [divide.]
land .......... land ... Gilead <01568 0776> [the country of Gilead.]
Reubenites Gadites <01121> [the children.]
This verse should probably be rendered, "And when they came to the borders of Jordan, that are in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben, and the children of Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, Then built an altar by (or beyond, {al}) Jordan, a great altar to the view." It would appear, that when they came to the river, they formed the purpose of building the altar; and when they crossed it they put that purpose into execution. It is evident that they did not build it west of the Jordan, for that was not in their territories, and the next verse expressly says that it was built over against the land of Canaan.
built <01129> [built.]
received <08085> [heard.]
side <05676> [at the passage.]
community <05712> [the whole.]
Supposing they had built this altar for sacrifice, in opposition to the command of God, they considered them as rebels against God and the Israelitish constitution.
sent <07971> [sent.]
Phinehas <06372> [Phinehas.]
leaders ............ family <05387 01004> [chief house. Heb. house of the father. an head.]
[the whole.]
[trespass.]
[to turn.]
[rebel.]
sin <05771> [Is the iniquity.]
purified <02891> [from which.]
following <0310> [following.]
rebelling <04775> [and it will.]
anger <07107> [he will be.]
impure <02931> [unclean.]
Lord's ...... Lord .............. Lord ................ Lord <03068> [wherein.]
Reubenites Gadites <01121> [Then the children.]
The conduct and answer of these Reubenites and the associates are worthy of admiration and imitation. Though conscious of their innocence, they permitted Phinehas to finish his speech, though composed of little else than accusations, without any interruption; and taking in good part the suspicions, reproofs, and even harshness of their brethren, with the utmost meekness and solemnity they explain their intention, give all the satisfaction in their power, and with great propriety and reverence, appeal to that God against whom they were supposed to have rebelled.
answered <06030> [answered.]
leaders <07218> [heads.]
El .... Lord El .... Lord ................. Lord <0410 03068> [Lord God.]
[Yeh“vƒh <\\See definition 03068\\> el“hŒym <\\See definition 0430\\> ˆl <\\See definition 0410\\>,] {El Elohim Yehowah,} literally "The strong God, Elohim Jehovah," which is nearly the version of Luther, {der starte Gott, der Herr,} "The strong God, the Lord."
knows ....... know <03045> [he knoweth.]
Israel <03478> [Israel.]
rebelled <04777> [if it be.]
Lord .................... Lord <03068> [let the Lord.]
worried <01674> [for fear.]
future <04279> [In time to come. Heb. To-morrow.]
right to worship <02506> [ye have.]
way <07673> [make.]
reminder <05707> [a witness.]
honor <05647> [that we.]
See <07200> [Behold.]
Far be it <02486> [God forbid.]
building <01129> [to build.]
satisfied <03190> [it pleased them. Heb. it was good in their eyes.]
It is remarkable, that Joshua is not once named in this transaction; but this only shews, that he did not in his old age assume any regal authority, but left the elders and magistrates to conduct the general business, only acting himself when great occasions made it necessary. Yet we cannot doubt, that his wisdom and piety influenced the counsels of the elders and people at this time.
Lord ... among ......... Lord ............ Lord's <03068 08432> [the Lord is.]
Now <0227> [now. Heb. then.]
back <07725> [and brought.]
report <01697> [the thing.]
gave thanks <01288> [blessed.]
[Ed. i.e, a witness.]
The word witness, or testimony, is not found in the common editions of the Hebrew Bible; and is supplied in Italics by our venerable translators, at least in our modern copies; for in the first edition of this translation, it stands in the text without any note of this kind; but it is found in several of Kennicott's and De Rossi's MSS., and also in the Syriac and Arabic. Several also of the early printed editions of the Hebrew Bible have the word {ed,} either in the text or in the margin; and it must be allowed to be necessary to complete the sense. It is very probable that an inscription was put on this altar, signifying the purpose for which it was erected. Thus was this affair most happily terminated.
Lord ... God <0430 03068> [the Lord is God.]
Several manuscripts read more emphatically, [yeh“vƒh <\\See definition 03068\\>,] [h–w' <\\See definition 01931\\>] [el“hŒym <\\ See definition 0430\\>,] {Yehowah, hoo Elohim,} "Jehovah he is God."
Lord <03068> [the Lord.]
<02204> [waxed old.]
time ................. old <03117 0935> [stricken in age. Heb. come into days.]
Israel <03478> [all Israel.]
elders <02205> [and for their elders.]
Or, "even for their elders," etc.; for it is probably that Joshua gave the following charge only to the elders, judges, etc., to communicate to the people.
saw <07200> [And ye.]
Lord .............. Lord <03068> [for the.]
See <07200> [Behold.]
west <03996> [westward. Heb. at the sunset.]
drive ... out <01920> [he shall.]
Lord ...................... Lord <03068> [as the Lord.]
very ... Carefully <03966> [very.]
swerve <05493> [that ye.]
associate <0935> [That ye come.]
Have no civil or social contacts with them, as these will infallibly lead to spiritual affinities, in consequence of which, ye will make honourable "mention of the name of their gods," "swear by them" "and serve" them in their abominable rites; and "bow yourselves unto them," as your creators and preservers. All this will follow by simply coming among them. He who walks in the counsel of the ungodly, will soon stand in the way of sinners, and sit in the seat of scorners.
invoke ............... worship <02142 05647> [neither.]
solemn declarations <07650> [to swear.]
[or, For if ye will cleave, etc.]
Lord <03068> [For the Lord. or, Then the Lord will drive.]
<0376> [no man.]
Lord <03068> [Lord.]
carefully <03966> [Take good.]
yourselves <05315> [yourselves. Heb. your souls. love.]
turn away <07725> [go back.]
alliances <01692> [cleave.]
intermarry <02859> [shall make.]
longer <03254> [will no.]
trap <06341> [snares.]
disappear <06> [until ye perish.]
die <01980> [I am going.]
one ...... promises .................. promise <01697 0259> [not one thing.]
Lord .................... Lord .................. Lord <03068> [so shall.]
angry <0639> [then shall.]
disappear <06> [perish.]
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
This must have been a different assembly from that mentioned in the preceding chapter, though probably held not long after the former.
Shechem <07927> [Shechem.]
As it is immediately added, that "they presented themselves before God," which is supposed to mean at the tabernacle; some are of opinion that Joshua caused it to be conveyed from Shiloh to Shechem on this occasion, to give the greater solemnity to his last meeting with the people. The Vatican and Alexandrian copies of the Septuagint, however, read [Selo,] both here and in verse 25; which many suppose to have been the original reading. Dr. Shuckford supposes that the covenant was made at Shechem, and that the people went to Shiloh to confirm it. But the most probable opinion seems to be that of Dr. Kennicott, that when all the tribes were assembled as Shechem, Joshua called the chiefs to him on that mount, which had before been consecrated by the law, and by the altar which he had erected.
summoned <07121> [called.]
appeared <03320> [presented.]
ancestors .......... father <01> [Your fathers.]
God ......................... worshiped other gods <0312 0430 05647> [served other gods.]
In the case of Abraham this was probably the case, till he was called to the knowledge of God, when above 70 years old.
took <03947> [I took.]
gave <05414> [gave.]
Isaac <03327> [unto Isaac.]
Esau ... Esau <06215> [unto Esau.]
Jacob ........... Jacob <03290> [Jacob.]
sent <07971> [sent.]
struck <05062> [plagued.]
brought <03318> [I brought.]
Egypt <04714> [Egyptians.]
cried out <06817> [And when.]
made <07760> [he put.]
drowned <0935> [brought.]
eyes <05869> [your eyes.]
lived <03427> [ye dwelt.]
crossed <05674> [And ye.]
leaders <01167> [the men.]
sent <07971> [I sent.]
swords <02719> [not.]
gave <05414> [And I.]
cities <05892> [cities.]
obey <03372> [fear.]
worship ............. worshiped ......... worship <05647> [serve.]
aside <05493> [put.]
From this exhortation of Joshua, we not only learn that the Israelites still retained some relics of idolatry, but to what gods they were attached. 1. Those whom their fathers worshipped on the other side of the food, or the river Euphrates, i.e., the gods of the Chaldeans, fire, light, the sun, etc. 2. Those of the Egyptians, Apis, Anubis, serpents, vegetables, etc. 3. Those of the Amorites, Moabites, Canaanites, etc., Baal-peor, Astarte, etc. How astonishing is it, that after all that God had done for them, and all the miracles they had seen, there should still be found among them both idols and idolaters!
Egypt <04714> [in Egypt.]
choose <0977> [choose.]
gods ........... gods <0430> [whether the gods.]
gods ........... gods <0430> [or the gods.]
family <01004> [as for me.]
worship <05647> [will we also.]
<03201> [Ye cannot.]
holy <06918> [holy.]
jealous <07072> [a jealous.]
forgive <05375> [he will not.]
turn <07725> [he will turn.]
worship <05647> [Nay.]
witnesses ................ witnesses <05707> [Ye are witnesses.]
Ye have been sufficiently apprised of the difficulties in your way--of God's holiness, and the nature of his service--your own weakness, inconstancy, and insufficiency--your need of the Divine help, and the hope of assistance held out in the law--and the awful consequences of apostasy: and now ye make your choice. Remember then that ye are witnesses against yourselves; and your own conscience will be witness, judge, and executioner.
chosen <0977> [ye have.]
aside <05493> [put away.]
submit <05186> [incline.]
<03772> [made.]
Shechem <07927> [in Shechem.]
Joshua <03091> [Joshua.]
took <03947> [took.]
set <06965> [set it.]
oak <0427> [under.]
A curious coincidence of circumstances is related by Livy, the Roman historian: he writes that "when three ambassadors were sent from Rome to complain of the perfidious conduct of the ’qui, the General informed them, that they might deliver their message to an oak which shaded his tent." On this one of the ambassadors turning away, said, "This venerable oak, and all the gods, shall know that you have violated the peace; they shall now hear our complaints; and may they also soon be witnesses, when we revenge with our arms the violation of divine and human rights." It is worthy of remark that Joshua merely set up a pillar under an oak,--the one, perhaps, to protect the other; while the General directed the ambassadors to address the oak, perhaps with an idolatrous feeling that they were addressing one of the gods, who would aid his cause; while the Roman ambassadors caught the feeling, and really invoked the aid of the oak and the gods.
heard <08085> [it hath.]
deny <03584> [deny.]
After <0310 01697> [after these.]
hundred <03967> [an hundred.]
Timnath <08556> [Timnath-serah.]
Gaash <01608> [Gaash.]
worshiped <05647> [served.]
Joshua's ........... outlived him <03091 0748> [overlived Joshua. Heb. prolonged their days after Joshua. which had.]
bones <06106> [bones.]
buried <06912> [buried.]
pieces of money <07192> [pieces of silver. or, lambs.]
Eleazar <0499> [Eleazar.]
died <04191> [died.]
Phinehas <06372> [Phinehas.]
CONCLUDING REMARKS ON JOSHUA. The Book of Joshua is one of the most important documents in the Old Testament. The rapid conquest of the Promised Land, and the actual settlement of the Israelites in it, afford a striking accomplishment of the Divine predictions to Abraham and the succeeding patriarchs; and at the same time bear the most unequivocal and ample testimony to the authenticity of this sacred book. Several of the transactions related in it are confirmed in a very extraordinary manner, by the traditions current among heathen nations, and preserved by ancient profane historians of undoubted character. Thus there are monuments still in existence, which prove that the Carthaginians were a colony of Syrians who escaped from Joshua; as also that the inhabitants of Leptis, in Africa, came originally from the Sidonians, who abandoned their country on account of the calamities with which it was overwhelmed. Procopius relates that the Phoenicians fled before the Hebrews into Africa, and spread themselves abroad as far as the pillars of Hercules; and adds, "In Numidia, where now stands the city Tigisis (Tangiers), they have erected two columns, on which, in Phoenician characters, is the following inscription:--"We are the Phoenicians who fled from the face of Jesus (Joshua) the son of Naue" (Nun).
