Joshua 15:19
Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Water scarcity defined life in the Negev region. Annual rainfall averages 8-12 inches in northern Negev, decreasing southward. Ancient settlements clustered around springs, wells, and wadis that captured seasonal runoff. Archaeological surveys reveal sophisticated water management systems including cisterns, channels, and terracing to maximize agricultural potential. The "upper" and "lower" springs likely refer to elevational differences—upland springs fed by mountain runoff and lowland springs from aquifers. Controlling multiple water sources provided security against drought and supported diverse agriculture (orchards requiring perennial water, grains using seasonal rainfall). Modern identification places these springs near Debir in the Hebron hills. Achsah's acquisition of prime water rights made her and Othniel's inheritance exceptionally valuable, supporting not just minimal survival but prosperity.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Achsah's bold request for 'springs' after receiving 'land' challenge you to ask God not just for basic provision but for resources to make that provision fully fruitful?
- What spiritual 'springs'—ongoing sources of renewal, wisdom, strength—do you need to request to make your God-given callings and responsibilities fully productive?
- How does Caleb's generous response (giving both upper and lower springs) illustrate God's character as one who delights to exceed our requests when we ask in faith?
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Analysis & Commentary
Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; give me also springs of water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs. Achsah's request demonstrates theological insight wrapped in practical need. Her opening, "Give me a blessing" (tenah li berachah, תְּנָה־לִּי בְרָכָה), frames the petition spiritually—she seeks not mere property but berachah, divine blessing channeled through her father. This language elevates physical land to covenant promise level, recognizing earthly gifts as expressions of divine favor.
Her logic is compelling: "for thou hast given me a south land" (eretz ha-negev, אֶרֶץ הַנֶּגֶב). The Negev was semi-arid, receiving 8-12 inches annual rainfall—adequate for grazing and dry farming but challenging without irrigation. Achsah essentially argues, "You've given good land, but it's incomplete without water to make it fully productive." She requests "springs of water" (gullot mayim, גֻּלֹּת מָיִם), permanent water sources essential for sustained habitation and agriculture.
Caleb's generous response—"the upper springs and the nether springs" (both upland and lowland water sources)—exceeds the request, providing comprehensive water access. This generosity mirrors our Heavenly Father who "is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Ephesians 3:20). The springs made the Negev land productive, illustrating how God's provision often comes in layers—first the land, then the means to make it fruitful.