Joshua 19:44
And Eltekeh, and Gibbethon, and Baalath,
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
These three cities lay in the western portion of Dan's territory, prime agricultural land along the coastal plain. Their loss to Philistine dominance forced Dan's migration northward, abandoning their God-given inheritance for easier territory gained by violence.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'partial obedience' in your life risks future spiritual compromise?
- How does tolerating 'small' sins eventually lead to greater spiritual defeat?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
And Eltekeh, and Gibbethon, and Baalath—More cities, including Baalath ('place of Baal'), showing Canaanite religious presence. Gibbethon appears during the divided kingdom as a Philistine city under siege by Israel (1 Kings 15:27, 16:15). These cities' subsequent history shows Dan never fully possessed their inheritance.
Failure to drive out inhabitants plagued Israel (Judges 1:34-35). God commanded complete conquest, but compromise seemed easier. This pattern repeats spiritually: partial obedience equals disobedience. Sin left unconquered eventually conquers the compromiser (Hebrews 12:1).