Joshua 19:30
Ummah also, and Aphek, and Rehob: twenty and two cities with their villages.
Original Language Analysis
וַֽאֲפֵ֖ק
also and Aphek
H663
וַֽאֲפֵ֖ק
also and Aphek
Strong's:
H663
Word #:
2 of 7
aphek (or aphik), the name of three places in palestine
וּרְחֹ֑ב
and Rehob
H7340
וּרְחֹ֑ב
and Rehob
Strong's:
H7340
Word #:
3 of 7
rechob, the name of a place in syria, also of a syrian and an israelite
עָרִ֛ים
cities
H5892
עָרִ֛ים
cities
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
4 of 7
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
Historical Context
The 22 cities formed a network controlling the western Galilee and coastal plain, one of Canaan's most fertile and strategic regions. The city-village structure (ir and chatzrim) was standard throughout the ancient Near East, with fortified urban centers governing agricultural hinterlands. This administrative system continued through Roman times when Galilee remained a populous, productive region.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the specific count (22 cities) challenge vague spirituality, showing that God's blessings are concrete and measurable?
- What does the city-village structure teach about interdependence between different types of communities or roles within the church?
- How should Christians steward "numbered inheritances"—specific, finite resources and opportunities—with accountability to the Giver?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Ummah also, and Aphek, and Rehob: twenty and two cities with their villages—The summary lists twenty and two cities (עֶשְׂרִים וּשְׁתַּיִם עִיר esrim u'shtayim ir) with their villages (חַצְרֵיהֶן chatzreihen, unwalled settlements, daughter villages). Aphek means "fortress" or "stronghold," a common city name across Israel. The precision—exactly 22 cities—demonstrates the careful record-keeping and legal documentation of tribal inheritances.
The phrase "with their villages" indicates that each fortified city controlled surrounding agricultural settlements, creating economic and defensive networks. This settlement pattern reflects ancient Near Eastern urbanization where walled cities provided refuge during attack while villages enabled farming. God's inheritance wasn't just isolated towns but functioning regional systems with cities and satellite communities—complete socioeconomic structures, not mere real estate. The numbered inheritance emphasizes accountability: Asher received specific, measurable blessing.