Joshua 19:39 - This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Naphtali according to their families, the cities with their villages.

Generated Verse: Joshua 19:39

What does "Joshua 19:39" mean?


This verse from Joshua 19:39 is a concise summary concluding the description of the land allocated to the tribe of Naphtali. Let's break down what it means:

"This is the inheritance...": This phrase indicates that the preceding verses (Joshua 19:32-38) have detailed the territory assigned to the tribe of Naphtali. "Inheritance" is a key term in the book of Joshua, signifying the land promised by God to the Israelites, which they are now receiving as their permanent possession.

"...of the tribe of the children of Naphtali...": This identifies the recipient of the inheritance. Naphtali was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from one of Jacob's sons (Naphtali). Each tribe received a specific territory within the Promised Land.

"...according to their families...": This suggests that within the overall tribal territory, specific portions were likely further divided among the different clans or families within the tribe of Naphtali. The land wasn't just given to the tribe as a whole, but with consideration for the internal organization and family units within that tribe. This ensures a more equitable distribution and provides a basis for family identity and lineage.

"...the cities with their villages.": This reinforces the idea that the inheritance included not only major cities but also the surrounding smaller settlements and agricultural lands associated with those cities. "Villages" would have depended on the nearby cities for commerce, defense, and administration. This is a common phrase emphasizing that the tribes received a complete and functional settlement area, not just isolated cities.

In essence, Joshua 19:39 serves as a concluding statement confirming that the tribe of Naphtali has received their designated portion of the Promised Land, comprising both urban centers and surrounding rural areas, and that this inheritance was likely further distributed among the families within the tribe. It marks the completion of the land allotment for Naphtali.

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