Old Testament
Joshua 15:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The southernmost cities of the tribe of Judah, near the border of Edom, were Kabzeel, Eder, and Jagur,
Compare translations
And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,
What Joshua 15:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 15:21, we learn about the southernmost cities allocated to the tribe of Judah, which are located near the border of Edom. The cities mentioned—Kabzeel, Eder, and Jagur—are significant as they represent the geographical boundaries of Judah's territory. This verse highlights the importance of land distribution among the tribes of Israel after their conquest of Canaan. Each city had its own role and significance in the life of the tribe, serving as places of residence, worship, and community. The mention of these cities also emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites a land of their own. Understanding these locations helps us appreciate the historical context of the Israelites and their journey. It also reminds us of the importance of community and belonging, as these cities were vital for the identity and unity of the tribe of Judah.
How to apply Joshua 15:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of our own communities and the places we belong. Just as the cities were vital for the tribe of Judah, our communities provide support, identity, and a sense of belonging. We should actively engage in and contribute to our communities.
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 Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Joseph Is Born (Genesis 30:22–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. 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.
Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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 15:21
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 15:21
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 15:21 mean?
Joshua 15:21 describes the southernmost cities of the tribe of Judah, which are Kabzeel, Eder, and Jagur, located near the border of Edom. This verse highlights the geographical boundaries of Judah's territory as part of the land distribution among the tribes of Israel.
What is the significance of the cities mentioned in Joshua 15:21?
The cities Kabzeel, Eder, and Jagur represent important locations for the tribe of Judah, serving as centers for residence, worship, and community life. Their mention underscores the fulfillment of God's promise to provide land for the Israelites.
How does Joshua 15:21 relate to community?
This verse illustrates the significance of community by highlighting the cities that were essential for the tribe of Judah's identity and unity. Just as these cities provided a sense of belonging, our own communities play a vital role in our lives.
What themes are present in Joshua 15:21?
Key themes in Joshua 15:21 include land distribution, the geographical boundaries of the tribe of Judah, historical context, and the fulfillment of God's promises. The verse also emphasizes the importance of community and belonging.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.