Bible Verse Meaning: Joshua 15:55

Verse: "And Maon, and Carmel, and Ziph, and Juttah," - Joshua 15:55

Summary of Context:

This verse is situated within the broader context of the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel after their conquest of Canaan. The specifics of territory allocations include key towns and cities, highlighting the organization of the Israelite community and the significance of these locations.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry notes the geographical and historical importance of the cities mentioned. Each location listed in verse 55 serves a role not only in Israelite settlement but also in Biblical history. These towns reveal the richness of the land given to the tribe of Judah and suggest themes of abundance and God's providence.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the significance of these locations in the lives of the Israelites. This commentary emphasizes the themes of inheritance and divine promise, as these areas were the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham and his descendants. The listing also serves to establish boundaries and identify cities of refuge.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke provides a detailed analysis of the topographical realties of the area, discussing how the geography influenced the lifestyle and spiritual practices of the Israelites. His commentary underlines the importance of each town for communal governance and worship, and how these cities are interlinked within the land’s inheritance.

Bible Verse Cross-References

Here we explore several Bible verses that relate to Joshua 15:55, illustrating connections across scripture:

• Genesis 12:7: "The Lord appeared to Abram and said, 'To your offspring I will give this land.' So he built an altar there to the Lord who had appeared to him." (Connection: God's promise of land.)
• Numbers 34:2: "Command the children of Israel, and say to them: 'When you come into the land of Canaan, this is the land that shall fall to you as an inheritance, the land of Canaan to its boundaries.'" (Connection: Land inheritance.)
• Joshua 18:10: "And Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord; and there Joshua divided the land to the children of Israel according to their divisions." (Connection: The process of land distribution.)
• Deuteronomy 1:38: "But Joshua the son of Nun, who stands before you, he shall go in there; encourage him, for he shall cause Israel to inherit it." (Connection: Joshua's role as a leader.)
• 1 Samuel 25:2: "Now there was a man in Maon whose business was in Carmel; and the man was very rich." (Connection: Mention of Maon and Carmel's significance.)
• Matthew 5:5: "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth." (Connection: Themes of inheritance and God's promise to the faithful.)
• Psalms 37:29: "The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever." (Connection: Assurance of God's promise.)

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

This verse relates to various biblical themes such as:

• Inheritance: Both physical (land) and spiritual inheritance are central in these passages.
• Covenant: The relationship between God and His people, emphasizing obedience and the resulting blessings.
• Faithfulness: The importance of remaining faithful to God’s commands as shown in the actions of the Israelites and their leaders.

Conclusion

The exploration of Joshua 15:55 through public domain commentaries reveals not only the historical context of land allocation but also highlights deeper theological themes such as inheritance, God's promises, and faithfulness. By studying the connections between these verses, believers can gain a richer understanding of scripture and its implications for their lives today.