Joshua 21:33

Authorized King James Version

All the cities of the Gershonites according to their families were thirteen cities with their suburbs.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
עִ֖יר
All the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#3
הַגֵּֽרְשֻׁנִּ֖י
of the Gershonites
a gereshonite or descendant of gereshon
#4
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
#5
שְׁלֹשׁ
were thirteen
three; occasionally (ordinal) third, or (multiple) thrice
#6
עֶשְׂרֵ֥ה
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
#7
עִ֖יר
All the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#8
וּמִגְרְשֵׁיהֶֽן׃
with their suburbs
a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joshua, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Joshua.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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