Old Testament
Joshua 13:18
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jahaza, Kedemoth, Mephaath,
Compare translations
And Jahaza, and Kedemoth, and Mephaath,
What Joshua 13:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 13:18, the names Jahaza, Kedemoth, and Mephaath are mentioned as part of the territories allocated to the tribes of Israel. These locations were significant in the distribution of land among the tribes after their conquest of Canaan. Each name represents a specific area that was important for settlement and governance. Jahaza is often associated with a place of refuge, while Kedemoth and Mephaath were likely strategic locations for defense and agriculture. The mention of these towns highlights the importance of land ownership and the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites. It also reflects the organizational structure of the Israelite community as they settled into their new homeland, emphasizing the need for order and division of responsibilities among the tribes. Understanding these locations helps us appreciate the historical context of the Israelites' journey and their reliance on divine guidance in claiming their inheritance.
How to apply Joshua 13:18 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of recognizing and valuing our own 'inheritance' in life, whether it be our relationships, opportunities, or spiritual gifts. Just as the Israelites received their land, we should appreciate and steward what we have been given.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Joshua 13:18
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Joshua 13:18
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 13:18 mean?
Joshua 13:18 lists the towns Jahaza, Kedemoth, and Mephaath as part of the land allocated to the tribes of Israel. These locations were significant for settlement and governance after the Israelites conquered Canaan.
What is the significance of Jahaza in Joshua 13:18?
Jahaza is mentioned as a place of refuge in Joshua 13:18, indicating its importance for safety and protection for the Israelites as they settled in their new land.
What is the meaning of Kedemoth in Joshua 13:18?
Kedemoth, listed in Joshua 13:18, likely served as a strategic location for defense and agriculture, highlighting its role in the organization of the Israelite community.
What does Mephaath represent in Joshua 13:18?
Mephaath, mentioned in Joshua 13:18, is one of the towns allocated to the tribes of Israel, reflecting the division of land and responsibilities among the tribes after their conquest of Canaan.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.