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Joshua 15

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‹ Chapter 14 Joshua — All Chapters Chapter 16 ›

1 Now the allotment for the clans of the tribe of Judah extended to the border of Edom, to the Wilderness of Zin at the extreme southern boundary: 2 Their southern border started at the bay on the southern tip of the Salt Sea, 3 proceeded south of the Ascent of Akrabbim, continued on to Zin, went over to the south of Kadesh-barnea, ran past Hezron up to Addar, and curved toward Karka. 4 It proceeded to Azmon, joined the Brook of Egypt, and ended at the Sea. This was their southern border. 5 The eastern border was the Salt Sea as far as the mouth of the Jordan. The northern border started from the bay of the sea at the mouth of the Jordan, 6 went up to Beth-hoglah, proceeded north of Beth-arabah, and went up to the Stone of Bohan son of Reuben. 7 Then the border went up to Debir from the Valley of Achor, turning north to Gilgal, which faces the Ascent of Adummim south of the ravine. It continued along the waters of En-shemesh and came out at En-rogel. 8 From there the border went up the Valley of Hinnom along the southern slope of the Jebusites (that is, Jerusalem) and ascended to the top of the hill that faces the Valley of Hinnom on the west, at the northern end of the Valley of Rephaim. 9 From the hilltop the border curved to the spring of the Waters of Nephtoah, proceeded to the cities of Mount Ephron, and then bent around toward Baalah (that is, Kiriath-jearim). 10 The border curled westward from Baalah to Mount Seir, ran along the northern slope of Mount Jearim (that is, Chesalon), went down to Beth-shemesh, and crossed to Timnah. 11 Then it went out to the northern slope of Ekron, curved toward Shikkeron, proceeded to Mount Baalah, went on to Jabneel, and ended at the Sea. 12 And the western border was the coastline of the Great Sea. These are the boundaries around the clans of the descendants of Judah. 13 According to the LORD’s command to him, Joshua gave Caleb son of Jephunneh a portion among the sons of Judah—Kiriath-arba, that is, Hebron. (Arba was the forefather of Anak.) 14 And Caleb drove out from there the three sons of Anak—the descendants of Sheshai, Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak. 15 From there he marched against the inhabitants of Debir (formerly known as Kiriath-sepher). 16 And Caleb said, “To the man who strikes down Kiriath-sepher and captures it, I will give my daughter Acsah in marriage." 17 So Othniel son of Caleb’s brother Kenaz captured the city, and Caleb gave his daughter Acsah to him in marriage. 18 One day Acsah came to Othniel and urged him to ask her father for a field. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, “What do you desire?" 19 “Give me a blessing,” she answered. “Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me springs of water as well.” So Caleb gave her both the upper and lower springs. 20 This is the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Judah. 21 These were the southernmost cities of the tribe of Judah in the Negev toward the border of Edom: Kabzeel, Eder, Jagur, 22 Kinah, Dimonah, Adadah, 23 Kedesh, Hazor, Ithnan, 24 Ziph, Telem, Bealoth, 25 Hazor-hadattah, Kerioth-hezron (that is, Hazor), 26 Amam, Shema, Moladah, 27 Hazar-gaddah, Heshmon, Beth-pelet, 28 Hazar-shual, Beersheba, Biziothiah, 29 Baalah, Iim, Ezem, 30 Eltolad, Chesil, Hormah, 31 Ziklag, Madmannah, Sansannah, 32 Lebaoth, Shilhim, Ain, and Rimmon—twenty-nine cities in all, along with their villages. 33 These were in the foothills: Eshtaol, Zorah, Ashnah, 34 Zanoah, En-gannim, Tappuah, Enam, 35 Jarmuth, Adullam, Socoh, Azekah, 36 Shaaraim, Adithaim, and Gederah (or Gederothaim)—fourteen cities, along with their villages. 37 Zenan, Hadashah, Migdal-gad, 38 Dilan, Mizpeh, Joktheel, 39 Lachish, Bozkath, Eglon, 40 Cabbon, Lahmas, Chitlish, 41 Gederoth, Beth-dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah—sixteen cities, along with their villages. 42 Libnah, Ether, Ashan, 43 Iphtah, Ashnah, Nezib, 44 Keilah, Achzib, and Mareshah—nine cities, along with their villages. 45 Ekron, with its towns and villages; 46 from Ekron to the sea, all the cities near Ashdod, along with their villages; 47 Ashdod, with its towns and villages; Gaza, with its towns and villages, as far as the Brook of Egypt and the coastline of the Great Sea. 48 These were in the hill country: Shamir, Jattir, Socoh, 49 Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir), 50 Anab, Eshtemoh, Anim, 51 Goshen, Holon, and Giloh—eleven cities, along with their villages. 52 Arab, Dumah, Eshan, 53 Janim, Beth-tappuah, Aphekah, 54 Humtah, Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron), and Zior—nine cities, along with their villages. 55 Maon, Carmel, Ziph, Juttah, 56 Jezreel, Jokdeam, Zanoah, 57 Kain, Gibeah, and Timnah—ten cities, along with their villages. 58 Halhul, Beth-zur, Gedor, 59 Maarath, Beth-anoth, and Eltekon—six cities, along with their villages. 60 Kiriath-baal (that is, Kiriath-jearim), and Rabbah—two cities, along with their villages. 61 These were in the wilderness: Beth-arabah, Middin, Secacah, 62 Nibshan, the City of Salt, and En-gedi—six cities, along with their villages. 63 But the descendants of Judah could not drive out the Jebusites living in Jerusalem. So to this day the Jebusites live there among the descendants of Judah.

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Study Notes — Joshua 15

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins by describing the southern border of Judah, which extended from the wilderness of Zin to the border of Edom. The border then turned northward to the ascent of Akrabbim, passing through Zin, and continued to the border of Judah, ending at the Jordan River. The chapter also lists the cities within Judah's territory, including Jerusalem, which was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah. The chapter concludes with a description of the western border, which was the Mediterranean Sea. Key verses, such as Joshua 15:1-4, emphasize the importance of the territorial boundaries and the allocation of cities within the tribe's territory.

Context for the Chapter

Joshua chapter 15 is part of the larger narrative of the conquest of Canaan, as described in the book of Joshua. The chapter follows the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, with Judah being one of the first tribes to receive its territory. The chapter's description of Judah's boundaries and cities serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites, as seen in the book of Genesis. The chapter also sets the stage for the eventual establishment of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, highlighting the city's strategic and spiritual significance.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Joshua chapter 15, we are reminded of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Just as the Israelites trusted God for the possession of the land, we can trust Him for the fulfillment of His promises in our lives. The chapter encourages us to have faith in God's sovereignty and provision, even when the circumstances seem uncertain or challenging.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Joshua chapter 15 describes the territory given to the tribe of Judah, including its boundaries and cities. The chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, as seen in Joshua 15:1-4. Just as the Israelites trusted God for the possession of the land, we can trust Him for the fulfillment of His promises in our lives.

Voices from the Church

“The promises of God are not vague or general, but specific and detailed, as seen in the boundaries and cities allocated to Judah in Joshua 15. We can trust God's Word, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises in our lives.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, as described in Joshua 15, serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and providence in the lives of His people. We can trust God's guidance and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty or challenge.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to Judah's Territory (15:1-4) — The chapter introduces the description of Judah's territory, highlighting the southern border and the allocation of cities.
  2. Description of Judah's Boundaries (15:5-11) — The chapter provides a detailed description of Judah's boundaries, including the eastern, southern, and western borders.
  3. Cities within Judah's Territory (15:20-32) — The chapter lists numerous cities within Judah's territory, including Jerusalem, which was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah.
  4. Conclusion and Summary (15:33-63) — The chapter concludes with a summary of Judah's territory, emphasizing the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites.
  5. Application and Reflection (15:1-63) — The chapter encourages us to reflect on God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, trusting in His sovereignty and provision for our lives.

Core Doctrines

Sovereignty of God
The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty in allocating the land to the tribes of Israel, highlighting His control over the circumstances of His people's lives. As seen in Joshua 15:1-4, God's sovereignty is evident in the detailed description of Judah's boundaries and cities.
Faithfulness of God
The chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, as seen in the allocation of land to the tribe of Judah. This faithfulness is a testament to God's character and encourages us to trust Him for the fulfillment of His promises in our lives, as noted in Joshua 15:1-4.
Providence of God
The chapter highlights God's providence in guiding the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan, demonstrating His care and provision for His people. The description of Judah's boundaries and cities, as seen in Joshua 15:1-11, serves as a reminder of God's providence in the lives of His people.
Covenant Theology
The chapter serves as a reminder of God's covenant with the Israelites, highlighting the promises and obligations of this covenant. The allocation of land to the tribe of Judah, as noted in Joshua 15:1-4, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and encourages us to trust in His sovereignty and provision.

Lessons from Joshua 15

  1. God's Faithfulness — The chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, as seen in the allocation of land to the tribe of Judah. This faithfulness encourages us to trust God for the fulfillment of His promises in our lives.
  2. Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter encourages us to trust God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty or challenge. As seen in Joshua 15:1-4, God's sovereignty is evident in the detailed description of Judah's boundaries and cities.
  3. Importance of Obedience — The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, as seen in the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. The description of Judah's boundaries and cities serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of obedience.
  4. God's Providence — The chapter demonstrates God's providence in guiding the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan, highlighting His care and provision for His people. The allocation of land to the tribe of Judah, as noted in Joshua 15:1-4, serves as a reminder of God's providence in the lives of His people.
  5. Covenant Theology — The chapter serves as a reminder of God's covenant with the Israelites, highlighting the promises and obligations of this covenant. The allocation of land to the tribe of Judah, as noted in Joshua 15:1-4, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and encourages us to trust in His sovereignty and provision.

Themes from Joshua 15

  1. God's Sovereignty — The chapter demonstrates God's sovereignty in allocating the land to the tribes of Israel, highlighting His control over the circumstances of His people's lives. As seen in Joshua 15:1-4, God's sovereignty is evident in the detailed description of Judah's boundaries and cities.
  2. Faithfulness of God — The chapter reminds us of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, as seen in the allocation of land to the tribe of Judah. This faithfulness is a testament to God's character and encourages us to trust Him for the fulfillment of His promises in our lives, as noted in Joshua 15:1-4.
  3. Providence of God — The chapter highlights God's providence in guiding the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan, demonstrating His care and provision for His people. The description of Judah's boundaries and cities, as seen in Joshua 15:1-11, serves as a reminder of God's providence in the lives of His people.
  4. Covenant Theology — The chapter serves as a reminder of God's covenant with the Israelites, highlighting the promises and obligations of this covenant. The allocation of land to the tribe of Judah, as noted in Joshua 15:1-4, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and encourages us to trust in His sovereignty and provision.
  5. Trust in God — The chapter encourages us to trust God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty or challenge. As seen in Joshua 15:1-4, God's sovereignty is evident in the detailed description of Judah's boundaries and cities, and His provision is demonstrated in the allocation of land to the tribe of Judah.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does the description of Judah's boundaries in Joshua 15:1-4 reveal about God's character and faithfulness?
  2. How does the allocation of cities within Judah's territory, as noted in Joshua 15:20-32, demonstrate God's provision and care for His people?
  3. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' trust in God's promises, as seen in Joshua 15:1-63?
  4. How does the chapter encourage us to trust God's sovereignty and provision in our lives, despite uncertainty or challenge?
  5. What role does the city of Jerusalem play in the chapter, and what significance does it hold for the tribe of Judah and the larger narrative of the Bible?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to Judah's Territory (15:1-4)

15:1 The chapter introduces the description of Judah's territory, highlighting the southern border and the allocation of cities.
15:2 The border of Judah extended from the wilderness of Zin to the border of Edom, highlighting the tribe's southernmost point.

2. Description of Judah's Boundaries (15:5-11)

15:5 The chapter provides a detailed description of Judah's boundaries, including the eastern, southern, and western borders.
15:6 The border turned northward to the ascent of Akrabbim, passing through Zin, and continued to the border of Judah, ending at the Jordan River.

3. Cities within Judah's Territory (15:20-32)

15:20 The chapter lists numerous cities within Judah's territory, including Jerusalem, which was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah.
15:21 The cities were allocated to the tribe of Judah, highlighting the tribe's population centers and the diversity of their settlements.

4. Conclusion and Summary (15:33-63)

15:33 The chapter concludes with a summary of Judah's territory, emphasizing the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites.
15:34 The chapter highlights the importance of the cities within Judah's territory, demonstrating the tribe's economic, cultural, and governance centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the city of Jerusalem in Joshua 15?

The city of Jerusalem was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah, highlighting its strategic and spiritual importance for the tribe and the larger narrative of the Bible, as seen in Joshua 15:8.

How does the chapter describe the boundaries of Judah's territory?

The chapter provides a detailed description of Judah's boundaries, including the eastern, southern, and western borders, as seen in Joshua 15:1-11.

What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' trust in God's promises in Joshua 15?

The chapter encourages us to trust God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty or challenge, as seen in the Israelites' trust in God's promises, as noted in Joshua 15:1-63.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Joshua 15:1 → Genesis 12:7 The promise of the land to Abraham is fulfilled in part through the allotment of Judah's territory in Joshua 15:1-4.
2 Joshua 15:8 → 2 Samuel 5:7 The city of Jerusalem, which was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah in Joshua 15:8, later became the capital of Israel under King David, as seen in 2 Samuel 5:7.
3 Joshua 15:20-32 → Numbers 34:1-12 The chapter lists numerous cities within Judah's territory, which were allocated to the tribe according to the instructions given in Numbers 34:1-12.
4 Joshua 15:33-63 → Deuteronomy 1:6-3:29 The chapter concludes with a summary of Judah's territory, which was part of the larger narrative of the conquest of Canaan, as described in Deuteronomy 1:6-3:29.
5 Joshua 15:1 → Hebrews 11:8-10 The faith of Abraham, as noted in Hebrews 11:8-10, serves as an example of trusting God's promises, just as the Israelites had to trust God for the possession of the land, as seen in Joshua 15:1-4.
6 Joshua 15:8 → Psalm 78:60-72 The city of Jerusalem, which was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah in Joshua 15:8, is also mentioned in Psalm 78:60-72, which describes the history of the Israelites and the city's significance.
7 Joshua 15:20-32 → 1 Kings 4:7-19 The chapter lists numerous cities within Judah's territory, which were allocated to the tribe according to the instructions given in 1 Kings 4:7-19.
8 Joshua 15:33-63 → Matthew 1:1-17 The chapter concludes with a summary of Judah's territory, which was part of the larger narrative of the conquest of Canaan, as described in Matthew 1:1-17.
9 Joshua 15:1 → Acts 7:1-53 The promise of the land to Abraham is fulfilled in part through the allotment of Judah's territory in Joshua 15:1-4, as noted in Acts 7:1-53.
10 Joshua 15:8 → Revelation 21:1-27 The city of Jerusalem, which was designated as a city for the descendants of Judah in Joshua 15:8, is also mentioned in Revelation 21:1-27, which describes the new heaven and the new earth.

Sermons on Joshua 15

SermonDescription
Jason Neil Laying Hold of Our Promised Land by Jason Neil In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of gathering together as God's people, as Jesus promises to be present when they meet. The speaker encourages the audience to
A.B. Simpson Thirty-One Kings, or the Victory Over Self by A.B. Simpson A.B. Simpson emphasizes the spiritual battle against the 'thirty-one kings' representing various forms of self-life that hinder our relationship with God. He explains that while gr
A.B. Simpson Kirjath-Sepher, or the Mind of Christ by A.B. Simpson A.B. Simpson explores the significance of Kirjath-Sepher, representing the conquest of the mind and the importance of surrendering our thoughts to Christ. He emphasizes that true v
Charles E. Cowman Upper Springs by Charles E. Cowman Charles E. Cowman preaches about the abundant blessings and refreshment that come from God, using the story of Caleb and Achsah to illustrate how God provides springs of water in t

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Joshua 15

Matthew Henry's commentary on Joshua 15 highlights the significance of the chapter in demonstrating God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites. The chapter serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and providence in guiding the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan. The description of Judah's boundaries and cities, as seen in Joshua 15:1-11, demonstrates God's attention to detail and care for His people's inheritance. The chapter encourages us to trust God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of uncertainty or challenge, as seen in the Israelites' trust in God's promises, as noted in Joshua 15:1-63. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

Detailed Description of Boundaries

The chapter provides a detailed description of Judah's boundaries, highlighting the specificity of God's promises and the care with which He allocated the land to the tribes. This attention to detail emphasizes God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, as seen in Joshua 15:1-4.

Importance of Cities

The chapter lists numerous cities within Judah's territory, demonstrating the significance of these population centers for the tribe's economy, culture, and governance. The inclusion of cities like Jerusalem, as noted in Joshua 15:8, underscores the strategic and spiritual importance of these urban areas.

Geographical Features

The chapter mentions various geographical features, such as the wilderness of Zin and the ascent of Akrabbim, which served as natural boundaries for Judah's territory. These features, as seen in Joshua 15:3, highlight the diversity of the land and the challenges faced by the Israelites in possessing and settling it.

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