Joshua 15:62
And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and En-gedi; six cities with their villages.
Original Language Analysis
עָרִ֥ים
cities
H5892
עָרִ֥ים
cities
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
2 of 8
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
עָרִ֥ים
cities
H5892
עָרִ֥ים
cities
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
6 of 8
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
Historical Context
En-gedi remains an oasis today, with springs producing about one million gallons of water daily. Its location 1,300 feet below sea level gives it tropical microclimate supporting date palms, henna, and balsam despite surrounding desert. The site was economically important for perfume production and agriculture. The extensive cave systems made it ideal refuge, explaining David's use of it when fleeing Saul.
Questions for Reflection
- How does En-gedi's nature as an oasis in the desert illustrate God's provision of refreshment in difficult seasons?
- What 'wilderness resources' might God have placed in difficult circumstances that we overlook by focusing only on difficulty?
- How might David's wilderness experiences at En-gedi have prepared him for kingship in ways palace life never could?
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Analysis & Commentary
And Nibshan, and the city of Salt, and En-gedi; six cities with their villages—En-gedi (עֵין גֶּדִי, "spring of the goat") was an oasis on the Dead Sea's western shore, famous for its springs, date palms, and balsam gardens. David hid there from Saul in caves (1 Samuel 24:1-2). The City of Salt likely refers to a settlement involved in harvesting salt from the Dead Sea, an economically valuable resource. These wilderness settlements demonstrate that even inhospitable regions offer resources when properly utilized.
En-gedi specifically symbolizes how God provides refreshment in barren places. An oasis in the desert, it pictures divine grace breaking into human desolation—springs in wasteland, beauty in barrenness. That such places were included in Judah's inheritance reminds us that God's provision includes unexpected blessings in unlikely locations. The wilderness contains treasures for those who learn to find them.