Joshua 19:48

Authorized King James Version

This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זֹ֗את
this (often used adverb)
#2
נַֽחֲלַ֛ת
This is the inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
#3
מַטֵּ֥ה
of the tribe
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
#4
בְנֵי
of the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
דָ֖ן
of Dan
dan, one of the sons of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory; likewise a place in palestine colonized by them
#6
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֑ם
according to their families
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
#7
הֶֽעָרִ֥ים
these cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#8
הָאֵ֖לֶּה
these or those
#9
וְחַצְרֵיהֶֽן׃
with their villages
a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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