Joshua 21:9

Authorized King James Version

And they gave out of the tribe of the children of Judah, and out of the tribe of the children of Simeon, these cities which are here mentioned by name,

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַֽיִּתְּנ֗וּ

H5414

And they gave

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

וּמִמַּטֵּ֖ה

H4294

and out of the tribe

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

בְּנֵ֣י

H1121

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

יְהוּדָ֔ה

H3063

of Judah

jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

וּמִמַּטֵּ֖ה

H4294

and out of the tribe

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

בְּנֵ֣י

H1121

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

שִׁמְע֑וֹן

H8095

of Simeon

shimon, one of jacob's sons, also the tribe descended from him

אֵ֚ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הֶֽעָרִ֣ים

H5892

these cities

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

#10

הָאֵ֔לֶּה

H428

these or those

#11

אֲשֶׁר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#12

יִקְרָ֥א

H7121

which are here mentioned

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

#13

אֶתְהֶ֖ן

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#14

בְּשֵֽׁם׃

H8034

by name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

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

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources

Biblical Maps