Joshua 13:3
From Sihor, which is before Egypt, even unto the borders of Ekron northward, which is counted to the Canaanite: five lords of the Philistines; the Gazathites, and the Ashdothites, the Eshkalonites, the Gittites, and the Ekronites; also the Avites:
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
The five Philistine cities formed a pentapolis (five-city confederacy) with coordinated leadership. Each 'lord' (seren) ruled independently but coordinated for mutual defense. The Philistines had migrated from the Aegean region (possibly Crete) and settled coastal Canaan around the time of Israel's exodus and conquest. Their advanced iron technology gave military advantage (1 Samuel 13:19-22 notes they prevented Israel from having iron tools). The coastal location gave them control of Mediterranean trade and access to international commerce. Gaza was southernmost, Ekron northernmost; the chain of cities controlled the entire southern coastal plain. The Avites were remnant people surviving in the region. The unconquered status of these territories meant Israel never fully controlled their promised land borders until David and Solomon's time. This incomplete possession would haunt Israel's history, providing both ongoing challenge and recurring lesson about covenant faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- What does God's promise of comprehensive inheritance despite incomplete possession teach about 'already but not yet' aspects of Christian life?
- How do you respond when promised blessings remain partially unfulfilled, requiring ongoing faith?
- What role do 'unconquered territories' in your spiritual life play in developing perseverance and dependence on God?
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Analysis & Commentary
Geographic detail: 'From Sihor, which is before Egypt, even unto the borders of Ekron northward, which is counted to the Canaanite: five lords of the Philistines; the Gazathites, and the Ashdothites, the Eshkalonites, the Gittites, and the Ekronites; also the Avites.' The Sihor (likely the 'River of Egypt,' Wadi el-Arish) marked the southern boundary. The five Philistine cities—Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, Ekron—each had a 'lord' (seren, סֶרֶן), unique title for Philistine rulers. This five-city confederacy made them formidable. The Avites were another unconstrained group. This detailed enumeration emphasizes the scope of unfinished business. Yet significantly, these territories are still described as Israel's inheritance—possession promised though not yet actualized. This pattern appears throughout Scripture: God promises comprehensive blessing while leaving aspects for future generations to claim through faith and obedience.