Joshua 19 18

Joshua 19:18 kjv

And their border was toward Jezreel, and Chesulloth, and Shunem,

Joshua 19:18 nkjv

And their territory went to Jezreel, and included Chesulloth, Shunem,

Joshua 19:18 niv

Their territory included: Jezreel, Kesulloth, Shunem,

Joshua 19:18 esv

Their territory included Jezreel, Chesulloth, Shunem,

Joshua 19:18 nlt

Its boundaries included the following towns: Jezreel, Kesulloth, Shunem,

Joshua 19 verses

Joshua 19 18 Meaning

Joshua 19:18 details a specific portion of the northern border for the tribe of Issachar’s territorial inheritance within the Promised Land. It precisely lists three key points: Jezreel, Chesulloth, and Shunem, indicating the eastward trajectory of the boundary as it stretched across this fertile region. This verse, therefore, signifies the concrete fulfillment of God's ancient promise to provide a land for His people, defined by specific and tangible geographical markers.

Joshua 19 18 Context

Joshua chapter 19 is a continuation of the detailed account of the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, following the successful conquest campaigns described earlier in the book. Specifically, this chapter describes the inheritance of Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan. Verse 18 is part of the section detailing the territory assigned by lot to the tribe of Issachar (Josh 19:17-23). The land allotment was not arbitrary but followed meticulous instructions, emphasizing God's precision and faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants. This systematic division of land establishes tribal identities, secures the future dwelling places of God's people, and underscores the theocratic governance of Israel. Historically, it reflects the transition from nomadic life to settled agrarian communities. Culturally, these geographical markers would have been deeply significant, forming the basis of tribal boundaries and inter-tribal relations for centuries.

Joshua 19 18 Word analysis

• And their border: Refers to the border of the tribe of Issachar, previously mentioned as receiving the fourth lot (Josh 19:17). The meticulous description of borders throughout Joshua signifies the divine act of fulfilling the promise of land. Land (ארץ, `eretz`) was foundational to Israel's identity and covenant relationship with God.
• went out: The Hebrew verb יָצָא (`yatsa`), meaning "to go out," "proceed," or "extend." Here, it graphically portrays the drawing or expansion of the tribal boundary. It is a simple but precise verb that marks geographical movement.
• toward Jezreel: יִזְרְעֶאל (`Yizre'el`). A strategically vital location, this name means "God sows" or "God scatters." It was a city and a prominent valley in the northern kingdom, known for its fertility. Its position marked an important trade route and future historical events (e.g., King Ahab's palace, Naboth's vineyard, Jehu's coup, the death of Jezebel) solidifying its future prominence in Israelite history. Its inclusion in Issachar's territory highlights the agricultural richness of their inheritance.
• and Chesulloth: הַכְּסֻלֹּת (`ha-Kesullot`), also known as Chisloth-tabor. The meaning is uncertain, possibly related to "flanks" or "confidences." It was a town near the foot of Mount Tabor. Less famous than Jezreel or Shunem, it serves as another fixed geographical point, confirming the exactness of the border demarcation. Its location at the transition point to other areas made it a crucial marker.
• and Shunem: שׁוּנֵם (`Shunem`). Possibly meaning "resting place" or "two resting places." Like Jezreel, Shunem would become renowned later in Israelite history. It is notably recognized as the home of the Shunammite woman who hosted the prophet Elisha and whose son he resurrected (2 Kgs 4). It also featured in King Saul’s final days before the battle of Gilboa (1 Sam 28). Its inclusion further grounds the land distribution in real, historically significant locations.

Words-Group analysis

• "their border went out": This phrase highlights the practical establishment and precise mapping of tribal territories. It reflects the meticulous and authoritative nature of God's division of the land, moving from an abstract promise to a tangible reality. It is a physical manifestation of God's sovereign rule.
• "Jezreel, and Chesulloth, and Shunem": The enumeration of these specific place names underscores the detail and certainty of the land allotment. It is not vague; it points to definable points on the map. This precise listing served to prevent future disputes over land, to solidify tribal identity tied to specific geographical regions, and to provide incontrovertible evidence of God's faithfulness in bringing His people into their promised inheritance. Each name holds significance, tying the land allocation to both economic fertility (Jezreel Valley) and future prophetic or historical events.

Joshua 19 18 Bonus section

The careful surveying and demarcation of land borders in Joshua highlight not just the fulfillment of a divine promise, but also the establishment of societal order in ancient Israel. The practice of respecting boundaries was paramount, reinforced by commands like not moving a neighbor's landmark (Deut 19:14, Prov 22:28), which ensured property rights and stable communities. This precision contrasts sharply with chaotic or haphazard settlements often seen in the ancient world, pointing to the divine wisdom guiding the nascent nation. Furthermore, the inclusion of places like Jezreel and Shunem serves to "anchor" the biblical narrative in real geography, connecting the promises of the past to the ongoing history and experiences of the Israelite people. This intertwining of prophecy, history, and geography reinforces the verifiable nature of the biblical record.

Joshua 19 18 Commentary

Joshua 19:18, though a brief geographical description, is deeply significant within the larger narrative of Israel's possession of the Promised Land. It is a testament to God’s unwavering faithfulness to His ancient covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The verse's precision, listing specific landmarks like Jezreel, Chesulloth, and Shunem, validates the historicity of the biblical account and emphasizes the divine order in the tribal allotments. It showcases that God is not vague in His blessings; He provides concrete, tangible inheritances. These specific towns would later become prominent in Israel’s history, embedding this initial land allocation with future national stories and prophetic events, particularly around the fertile and strategically important Jezreel Valley. For Issachar, it was the land of "strong bones" (Gen 49:14), signifying a hardy, agriculturally prosperous, and possibly industrious tribe settling in a prime region.