Joshua 15:50

Analysis & Commentary

And Anab, and Eshtemoh, and Anim,

Anab (עֲנָב, anav) means "grape" or "grapes," indicating viticulture's importance in this region. The name suggests fertile soil supporting vineyards despite the hill country's general rockiness. Wine production was economically vital in ancient Israel, used for consumption, trade, and religious offerings. The name's agricultural connotation reminds us that God's inheritance includes practical economic blessings, not merely spiritual abstractions.

Eshtemoh (אֶשְׁתְּמֹעַ, eshtemoa) possibly means "place of hearing" or "obedience," from the root shama (שָׁמַע, "to hear, obey"). If this etymology is correct, the name carries covenantal significance—true hearing involves obedient response (Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema). David shared Philistine spoils with Eshtemoh's elders (1 Samuel 30:28), cultivating political support. The city was designated a Levitical city (21:14; 1 Chronicles 6:57), placing priests in Judah's southern region to maintain covenant teaching. Archaeological excavations at Khirbet es-Samu (identified as Eshtemoh) revealed a large Iron Age settlement with public buildings, confirming its importance.

Anim (עָנִים, anim) means "fountains" or "springs," indicating vital water sources in this semi-arid region. Water determined settlement viability—cities required reliable springs or cisterns. The plural form suggests multiple springs, making this location particularly valuable. The name reminds us that God's provision includes meeting basic physical needs, not merely spiritual blessings. Living water (John 4:10-14; 7:37-39) fulfills what natural springs only symbolize.

Historical Context

The southern hill country's agriculture combined grain in valleys with grapes and olives on terraced hillsides. Viticulture (Anab, "grapes") required significant investment—vines took years to mature and needed walls for protection (Isaiah 5:1-2). The region's wine was traded throughout the ancient Near East. Water scarcity made springs (Anim) critical for settlement—cities competed for water rights, and controlling springs meant controlling territories. Archaeological excavations show sophisticated water collection systems, including plastered cisterns and channels directing runoff. Eshtemoh's identification with Khirbet es-Samu is supported by the site's size (10 acres) and strategic position, appropriate for a Levitical city receiving tithes from surrounding territories.

Questions for Reflection

• How does Anab ("grapes") remind you that spiritual fruitfulness requires cultivation, patience, and God's blessing on your labor?
• What does Eshtemoh ("hearing/obedience") teach about the inseparable connection between hearing God's word and obeying it in covenant relationship?
• How can physical blessings like water (Anim) point you to greater spiritual realities like the living water Jesus offers?