Joshua 15:36

Analysis & Commentary

And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages—Sharaim (שַׁעֲרַיִם, "two gates" or "double gate") appears in 1 Samuel 17:52, where the Israelites pursued fleeing Philistines after David killed Goliath "to the valley, and to the gates of Ekron. And the wounded of the Philistines fell down by the way to Shaaraim." The dual form suggests a city with two gates or two connected settlements. Adithaim (עֲדִיתַיִם, "double ornament" or "double prey") appears only here. Gederah (גְּדֵרָה, "sheepfold" or "wall") and Gederothaim (גְּדֵרֹתַיִם, "double sheepfold" or "two walls") are closely related, possibly indicating connected settlements or a single place counted as two.

The summary "fourteen cities with their villages" presents textual complexity—counting the names listed yields different numbers depending on how compound names are reckoned. Gederah and Gederothaim may be one location with variant names, or two distinct places. These enumeration issues reflect authentic ancient textual transmission, where copyists occasionally faced ambiguities in settlement names and classifications. The essential point isn't mathematical precision but comprehensive documentation of Judah's inheritance in the fertile, strategic Shephelah region.

Historical Context

Sharaim's mention in the Goliath narrative connects it to one of Scripture's most famous victories. After David killed Goliath in the Valley of Elah, the Philistines fled westward toward their coastal cities. The pursuit route "to Shaaraim" indicates the Israelites chased them through the Shephelah valleys back toward Philistine territory. Archaeological identification of Sharaim with Khirbet Qeiyafa has generated significant scholarly interest, as this site dates to the early Iron Age and shows evidence of Israelite occupation during David's era.

The Shephelah district (vv. 33-36) totaling fourteen cities formed Judah's western defensive line against Philistine expansion. These fortified settlements controlled valley passes, protected agricultural production, and served as forward military bases. The repeated conflicts in this region throughout Judges, Samuel, and Kings demonstrate ongoing contest for control. Whoever held the Shephelah could threaten or defend the highlands, making these fourteen cities strategically vital beyond their relatively small number.

Questions for Reflection

• How does Sharaim's connection to David's victory over Goliath encourage you to pursue defeated enemies (sin patterns, temptations) rather than allowing them to regroup and counterattack?
• What does the strategic placement of fortified cities in the Shephelah teach about establishing spiritual defenses at vulnerable access points where the enemy seeks entry to your life?
• How should understanding ancient territorial conflicts over strategic regions inform spiritual warfare—recognizing that certain areas of life require constant vigilance and strong defense?