Joshua 19:42
And Shaalabbin, and Ajalon, and Jethlah,
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
The valley of Ajalon was a crucial pass controlling movement between the coastal plain and the hill country. David later assigned Ajalon to the Levites (1 Chronicles 6:69). Its strategic importance made it frequently contested throughout biblical history.
Questions for Reflection
- How can experiencing or witnessing miracles still coexist with spiritual unfaithfulness?
- What role does ongoing obedience play beyond initial encounters with God's power?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And Shaalabbin, and Ajalon, and Jethlah—Shaalabbin appears elsewhere as Shaalbim, where Amorites resisted Dan (Judges 1:35). Ajalon is famous for Joshua's command: 'Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon' (Joshua 10:12). Jethlah is otherwise unknown.
Ajalon connects Dan's inheritance to cosmic miracle. The same territory where Joshua stopped the sun to complete victory became Dan's—a reminder that God controls creation for His purposes. Their inheritance testified to supernatural power, yet Dan later rebelled. Witnessing miracles doesn't guarantee faithfulness.