Joshua 14:4

Authorized King James Version

For the children of Joseph were two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim: therefore they gave no part unto the Levites in the land, save cities to dwell in, with their suburbs for their cattle and for their substance.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הָי֧וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בְנֵֽי

H1121

For the children

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יוֹסֵ֛ף

H3130

of Joseph

joseph, the name of seven israelites

שְׁנֵ֥י

H8147

were two

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

מַטּ֖וֹת

H4294

tribes

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

מְנַשֶּׁ֣ה

H4519

Manasseh

menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

וְאֶפְרָ֑יִם

H669

and Ephraim

ephrajim, a son of joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

נָתְנוּ֩

H5414

therefore they gave

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

#11

חֵ֨לֶק

H2506

no part

properly, smoothness (of the tongue)

#12

לַלְוִיִּ֜ם

H3881

unto the Levites

a levite or descendant of levi

#13

בָּאָ֗רֶץ

H776

in the land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

#14

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#15

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

#16

עָרִים֙

H5892

save cities

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

#17

לָשֶׁ֔בֶת

H3427

to dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

#18

וּמִ֨גְרְשֵׁיהֶ֔ם

H4054

in with their suburbs

a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea

#19

לְמִקְנֵיהֶ֖ם

H4735

for their cattle

something bought, i.e., property, but only live stock; abstractly, acquisition

#20

וּלְקִנְיָנָֽם׃

H7075

and for their substance

creation, i.e., (concretely) creatures; also acquisition, purchase, wealth

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joshua, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Joshua.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Joshua chapter 14 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

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