Joshua 19:38
And Iron, and Migdal-el, Horem, and Beth-anath, and Beth-shemesh; nineteen cities with their villages.
Original Language Analysis
עָרִ֥ים
cities
H5892
עָרִ֥ים
cities
Strong's:
H5892
Word #:
9 of 12
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
Historical Context
Beth-anath and Beth-shemesh reveal Canaanite polytheism—Anath was a war/fertility goddess, while sun worship was widespread. That Naphtali didn't rename these cities shows ancient Israel's inconsistent devotion, tolerating Canaanite influences that later corrupted their worship.
Questions for Reflection
- What pagan influences in culture can be redeemed for God's glory rather than merely rejected?
- How does toleration of false worship practices eventually corrupt true faith?
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Analysis & Commentary
And Iron, and Migdal-el, Horem, and Beth-anath, and Beth-shemesh; nineteen cities with their villages—The final Naphtali cities include Migdal-el ('tower of God') and two 'Beth' compounds: Beth-anath ('house of [goddess] Anath') and Beth-shemesh ('house of the sun'). The pagan names reflect Canaanite origins, yet they became Israelite possessions.
God redeems pagan names and purposes. Cities dedicated to false gods now worship Yahweh. This foreshadows the Great Commission: all nations, including idol-worshipers, can become God's inheritance (Psalm 2:8). Conversion transforms purpose, not just individuals but places and cultures.