This verse from Joshua 15:17 is part of a larger narrative about the conquest and division of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
Context: The surrounding verses describe the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The passage specifically mentions the capture of Debir, a Canaanite city.
"Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it": This states that Othniel successfully conquered the city of Debir.
Othniel: A prominent figure in early Israelite history. He is later mentioned in the Book of Judges as the first judge who delivered Israel from oppression.
Son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb: This identifies Othniel's lineage. Kenaz was not an Israelite family but was incorporated into the tribe of Judah, and the "brother" in this context likely indicates a close relationship or kinship.
Took it: Means he conquered and captured the city.
"and he gave him Achsah his daughter as wife": This explains Caleb's reward to Othniel for his bravery.
He: Refers to Caleb, a key figure in the tribe of Judah, known for his faith and courage.
Achsah his daughter: Caleb offered his daughter Achsah in marriage as a reward. This was a common practice in ancient times to honor and reward valor.
As wife: Marriage was a significant reward and a way to establish a strong alliance between families.
In summary, the verse signifies that Othniel distinguished himself by conquering Debir, a challenging task, and as a result, Caleb rewarded him with his daughter Achsah in marriage. This highlighted Othniel's bravery and leadership qualities, and it also cemented a bond between Othniel and the prominent figure of Caleb within the tribe of Judah. The story also demonstrates how land ownership and family ties were interconnected in ancient Israelite society.
This verse from Joshua 15:17 is part of a larger narrative about the conquest and division of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes. Here's a breakdown of what it means:
Context: The surrounding verses describe the territory allotted to the tribe of Judah. The passage specifically mentions the capture of Debir, a Canaanite city.
"Othniel the son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb, took it": This states that Othniel successfully conquered the city of Debir.
Othniel: A prominent figure in early Israelite history. He is later mentioned in the Book of Judges as the first judge who delivered Israel from oppression.
Son of Kenaz, the brother of Caleb: This identifies Othniel's lineage. Kenaz was not an Israelite family but was incorporated into the tribe of Judah, and the "brother" in this context likely indicates a close relationship or kinship.
Took it: Means he conquered and captured the city.
"and he gave him Achsah his daughter as wife": This explains Caleb's reward to Othniel for his bravery.
He: Refers to Caleb, a key figure in the tribe of Judah, known for his faith and courage.
Achsah his daughter: Caleb offered his daughter Achsah in marriage as a reward. This was a common practice in ancient times to honor and reward valor.
As wife: Marriage was a significant reward and a way to establish a strong alliance between families.
In summary, the verse signifies that Othniel distinguished himself by conquering Debir, a challenging task, and as a result, Caleb rewarded him with his daughter Achsah in marriage. This highlighted Othniel's bravery and leadership qualities, and it also cemented a bond between Othniel and the prominent figure of Caleb within the tribe of Judah. The story also demonstrates how land ownership and family ties were interconnected in ancient Israelite society.