Joshua 16 2

Joshua 16:2 kjv

And goeth out from Bethel to Luz, and passeth along unto the borders of Archi to Ataroth,

Joshua 16:2 nkjv

then went out from Bethel to Luz, passed along to the border of the Archites at Ataroth,

Joshua 16:2 niv

It went on from Bethel (that is, Luz), crossed over to the territory of the Arkites in Ataroth,

Joshua 16:2 esv

Then going from Bethel to Luz, it passes along to Ataroth, the territory of the Archites.

Joshua 16:2 nlt

From Bethel (that is, Luz) it ran over to Ataroth in the territory of the Arkites.

Joshua 16 verses

Joshua 16 2 Meaning

This verse describes a specific segment of the southern boundary line established for the territory of the descendants of Joseph, particularly the tribe of Ephraim, within the land of Canaan. It delineates the border starting from the area of Bethel, continuing towards the territory associated with the Archites, and reaching a place called Ataroth. It signifies the precise and divinely ordained division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, reflecting God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises.

Joshua 16 2 Context

Joshua 16 falls within the section of the book (chapters 13-19) that details the allocation of land among the tribes of Israel, following the conquest of Canaan. Having conquered the major strongholds, Joshua, assisted by Eleazar the priest and the tribal leaders, distributed the land by lot, fulfilling God's covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Chapter 16 specifically outlines the territory designated for the descendants of Joseph, primarily the tribe of Ephraim, as the first of the western tribes to receive their inheritance. This verse (Jos 16:2) meticulously traces a part of the southern boundary of Ephraim, highlighting significant landmarks to define the tribal domain. The precise geographical details were crucial for identifying tribal inheritance, establishing political control, and preventing future land disputes, affirming the divinely appointed ownership for each clan. Historically, the process underscores God's sovereignty over the land and His faithfulness in guiding His people into their long-promised dwelling place, a direct fulfillment that contrasted with local Canaanite beliefs attributing land ownership to various local deities.

Joshua 16 2 Word analysis

• And it went out (וַיֵּצֵא֙ - va·ye·tze): This Hebrew verb literally means "and it went forth" or "it came out." In the context of boundary descriptions, it denotes the starting point and direction of the demarcation line. It emphasizes the commencement of the survey and establishment of the border.
• from Bethel (מִבֵּֽית־אֵ֗ל - mi·beit-'el): Hebrew, meaning "from the house of God." Bethel was one of the most significant biblical sites, associated with Jacob's dream and his vow (Gen 28:10-22), and later a place of covenant renewal (Gen 35:1-15). It served as a critical religious and historical landmark.
• to Luz (ל֣וּז - luz): The original name of the city that Jacob renamed Bethel (Gen 28:19). The phrasing "from Bethel to Luz" is notable because they refer to the same place. This could indicate moving from the sacred area known as Bethel to the broader district historically known as Luz, or perhaps marking the extent of the town's immediate jurisdiction or a prominent point within its vicinity as part of the boundary path. It signifies the established historical name of the location.
• and passed along unto (וְעָבַר֙ עַד־ - ve·a·var ad-): Hebrew, "and it crossed over as far as" or "it extended to." This phrase continues to trace the boundary's trajectory, showing continuous movement and its endpoint along that segment.
• the borders of Archi (גְּב֤וּל הָאַרְכִּי֙ - ge·vul ha·ar·ki): Hebrew, "the boundary/territory of the Archite." This refers to the region inhabited by a specific clan or group of people called the Archites. This clan, or at least one of its members, Hushai the Archite, is mentioned much later as King David's friend (2 Sam 15:32), indicating their presence and significance in the region. Including this boundary suggests that the new tribal allocations respected or incorporated existing population centers or territories, using them as reference points.
• to Ataroth (עַד־עֲטָר֗וֹת - ad-'a·ta·rot): Hebrew, "unto Ataroth." Ataroth means "crowns" or "circular encampments." This was a common place name in ancient Canaan. This specific Ataroth serves as another defining point on the boundary line, acting as a fixed landmark in the geographical description. It is likely the same or very near "Ataroth-Addar" mentioned in Jos 16:5 as part of Ephraim's border near Upper Beth Horon.

• Words-group analysis: "And it went out from Bethel to Luz, and passed along unto the borders of Archi to Ataroth;": This entire phrase presents a highly technical, precise survey description, typical of ancient land grants and boundary definitions. The use of specific, recognizable geographical markers like Bethel and Ataroth, alongside demographic indicators like "the borders of Archi," provides undeniable clarity for future generations. This careful documentation underscores the legal and theological significance of the land inheritance as a divine gift and an established, enduring reality for the tribes. It moves from a well-known ancient landmark (Bethel/Luz) through lesser-known (Archi) to another boundary point (Ataroth), meticulously tracing the exact route.

Joshua 16 2 Bonus section

The careful listing of specific geographical points in tribal boundary descriptions, as seen in Joshua 16:2, was essential for the functioning of the Israelite society. It minimized internal disputes over territory, reinforced tribal identity, and served as a legal deed for future generations. This approach also subtly challenged the polytheistic views of Canaan, where land ownership was often attributed to local gods or powerful city-states. By systematically allocating the land, the Bible asserts YHWH's absolute sovereignty over all creation, demonstrating that He alone has the right and power to determine human dwelling places. The continuity of place names like Bethel/Luz connecting Joshua's era to the patriarchal narratives strengthens the sense of divine continuity and fulfilled prophecy.

Joshua 16 2 Commentary

Joshua 16:2 is not merely a dry geographical listing but a foundational statement of God's covenant faithfulness and Israel's rightful inheritance. It demonstrates the meticulous detail by which the Lord fulfilled His ancient promises to Abraham and his descendants concerning the land. The boundary described for Ephraim, passing through Bethel/Luz, near the Archites, and to Ataroth, signifies more than just property lines; it represents divine precision in securing Israel's promised blessing. This methodical allocation, carried out by Joshua, reflects God's orderly character and His unwavering commitment to His people's future in the land. The verse contributes to the overarching narrative of conquest and settlement, confirming that God kept His word, delivering His people into a secure and well-defined dwelling place. Each landmark underscores the tangibility of God's provision and the certainty of His promise.