Judges 1:13 - Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, took it, so he gave him Achsah his daughter as his wife.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "Judges 1:13" mean?
Judges 1:13 is a simple statement of fact, but it's embedded in a larger context that gives it significance. Let's break it down:
"Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother..." This introduces Othniel. He is identified by his lineage, specifying his father (Kenaz) and his relationship to Caleb (younger brother, which could also mean a kinsman or relation of Caleb's family). This is important because it links him to a prominent and respected figure in the tribe of Judah (Caleb).
"...took it..." The "it" refers back to the previous verses (Judges 1:12). Caleb offered his daughter Achsah in marriage to the man who would conquer Kiriath-sepher (also known as Debir), a fortified city held by the Canaanites. This was a challenge and an incentive to take a key territory.
"...so he gave him Achsah his daughter as his wife." This is the reward for Othniel's bravery and success. Caleb, true to his word, gives his daughter Achsah to Othniel in marriage.
Meaning and Significance:
Valour and Reward: The verse illustrates the reward for courage and military prowess. Othniel distinguished himself by conquering a difficult city, and in return, he received a valuable prize: marriage to Caleb's daughter. This signifies honor, status, and likely, a strategic alliance with Caleb's family.
Land and Inheritance: Marriage often had economic and political implications in ancient Israel. It is reasonable to assume that Achsah would bring a dowry, which could include land or other resources. This would further solidify Othniel's position.
Othniel as a Judge: Othniel is the first judge of Israel mentioned in the Book of Judges. This passage serves as an introduction to him and highlights his military leadership and integrity, qualities that would make him a suitable leader for the nation.
Continuing the Conquest: The conquest of Canaan was not complete when Joshua died. This story shows the ongoing struggle and the importance of individuals taking initiative to secure the promised land.
Caleb's Faithfulness: Caleb is portrayed as a man of his word. He made a promise and kept it, demonstrating integrity and reliability.
In essence, Judges 1:13 is a short but meaningful verse that highlights the reward for bravery, the importance of land and inheritance, and introduces a key figure (Othniel) who would go on to lead Israel. It also reveals insight into the social customs and values of the time.
Judges 1:13 - Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother, took it, so he gave him Achsah his daughter as his wife.
What does "Judges 1:13" mean?
Judges 1:13 is a simple statement of fact, but it's embedded in a larger context that gives it significance. Let's break it down:
"Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother..." This introduces Othniel. He is identified by his lineage, specifying his father (Kenaz) and his relationship to Caleb (younger brother, which could also mean a kinsman or relation of Caleb's family). This is important because it links him to a prominent and respected figure in the tribe of Judah (Caleb).
"...took it..." The "it" refers back to the previous verses (Judges 1:12). Caleb offered his daughter Achsah in marriage to the man who would conquer Kiriath-sepher (also known as Debir), a fortified city held by the Canaanites. This was a challenge and an incentive to take a key territory.
"...so he gave him Achsah his daughter as his wife." This is the reward for Othniel's bravery and success. Caleb, true to his word, gives his daughter Achsah to Othniel in marriage.
Meaning and Significance:
Valour and Reward: The verse illustrates the reward for courage and military prowess. Othniel distinguished himself by conquering a difficult city, and in return, he received a valuable prize: marriage to Caleb's daughter. This signifies honor, status, and likely, a strategic alliance with Caleb's family.
Land and Inheritance: Marriage often had economic and political implications in ancient Israel. It is reasonable to assume that Achsah would bring a dowry, which could include land or other resources. This would further solidify Othniel's position.
Othniel as a Judge: Othniel is the first judge of Israel mentioned in the Book of Judges. This passage serves as an introduction to him and highlights his military leadership and integrity, qualities that would make him a suitable leader for the nation.
Continuing the Conquest: The conquest of Canaan was not complete when Joshua died. This story shows the ongoing struggle and the importance of individuals taking initiative to secure the promised land.
Caleb's Faithfulness: Caleb is portrayed as a man of his word. He made a promise and kept it, demonstrating integrity and reliability.
In essence, Judges 1:13 is a short but meaningful verse that highlights the reward for bravery, the importance of land and inheritance, and introduces a key figure (Othniel) who would go on to lead Israel. It also reveals insight into the social customs and values of the time.