Joshua 21:37

Authorized King James Version

Kedemoth with her suburbs, and Mephaath with her suburbs; four cities.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#2
קְדֵמוֹת֙
Kedemoth
kedemoth, a place in eastern palestine
#3
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
מִגְרָשֶׁ֔הָ
a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea
#5
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
מֵיפָ֖עַת
with her suburbs and Mephaath
mophaath or mephaath, a place in palestine
#7
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
מִגְרָשֶׁ֑הָ
a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea
#9
עָרִ֖ים
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#10
אַרְבַּֽע׃
with her suburbs four
four

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Joshua. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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