Old Testament
Joshua 14:15
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Hebron was previously called Kirjatharba, named after Arba, a great man among the Anakims. Then the land had rest from war.
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And the name of Hebron before was Kirjatharba; which Arba was a great man among the Anakims. And the land had rest from war.
What Joshua 14:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn that the city of Hebron was originally known as Kirjatharba, named after a notable figure named Arba, who was recognized as a great warrior among the Anakim, a group of giants mentioned in the Bible. The verse highlights a significant transition in the history of this region, indicating that after the Israelites conquered the land, it experienced a period of peace and rest from conflict. This peace was a direct result of the Israelites' victories and the establishment of their presence in the Promised Land. The mention of Arba serves to connect the past glory of the land with its new identity under Israelite control, emphasizing the shift from a land of giants to one of rest and stability for God's people.
How to apply Joshua 14:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the importance of peace in our lives. Just as the Israelites found rest after their struggles, we too can seek peace in our own challenges. It reminds us to trust in God’s provision and to celebrate the victories that lead to tranquility in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Caleb's Inheritance (Joshua 14:6–15)
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Joshua
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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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 14:15 mean?
Joshua 14:15 explains that Hebron was originally called Kirjatharba, named after a notable warrior named Arba, who was part of the Anakim. The verse signifies a transition from a land associated with giants to one that experienced peace after the Israelites' victories.
What is the significance of Hebron in Joshua 14:15?
In Joshua 14:15, Hebron's significance lies in its historical name Kirjatharba, which connects it to Arba, a great figure among the Anakim. This verse marks a change in the land's identity from one of conflict to a place of rest for the Israelites.
What does Kirjatharba refer to in Joshua 14:15?
Kirjatharba, mentioned in Joshua 14:15, refers to the original name of Hebron, named after Arba, a prominent warrior among the Anakim. This name change reflects the shift in the land's history following Israel's conquest.
What is the context of Joshua 14:15?
The context of Joshua 14:15 is the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land, where they establish control over regions previously inhabited by giants. The verse highlights the peace that followed their victories, marking a significant moment in their history.
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