Old Testament
Joshua 15:36
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Sharaim, Adithaim, Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages.
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And Sharaim, and Adithaim, and Gederah, and Gederothaim; fourteen cities with their villages:
What Joshua 15:36 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 15:36, the text lists four specific cities: Sharaim, Adithaim, Gederah, and Gederothaim, which are part of the territory allocated to the tribe of Judah. The mention of these cities, along with the note that there are fourteen cities in total with their villages, highlights the organization and structure of the land distribution among the tribes of Israel. This passage emphasizes the importance of community and settlement in the Promised Land, as each city would have its own surrounding villages, contributing to the overall population and economy of the region. The listing of cities also serves to document the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites a homeland, showcasing the tangible results of their journey and struggles. Each city likely had its own unique characteristics and significance, reflecting the diverse culture and heritage of the Israelites as they established themselves in their new land.
How to apply Joshua 15:36 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of community and belonging. Just as the Israelites were given specific places to settle, we too can find our own places of belonging within our communities. Engaging with and contributing to our local areas can foster a sense of connection and purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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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.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Joshua 15:36
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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 15:36 mean?
Joshua 15:36 lists four cities—Sharaim, Adithaim, Gederah, and Gederothaim—allocated to the tribe of Judah, along with a total of fourteen cities and their villages. This verse highlights the organization of land distribution among the tribes of Israel and emphasizes the importance of community in the Promised Land.
What is the significance of the cities mentioned in Joshua 15:36?
The cities in Joshua 15:36 represent the settlement areas for the tribe of Judah, showcasing the fulfillment of God's promise to provide a homeland for the Israelites. Each city likely had its own unique characteristics, contributing to the cultural heritage of the community.
What does the phrase 'fourteen cities with their villages' mean in Joshua 15:36?
The phrase 'fourteen cities with their villages' indicates that in addition to the four named cities, there were ten more cities in the region, each with surrounding villages. This reflects the structure of settlement and community life in the territory allocated to Judah.
How does Joshua 15:36 relate to community and belonging?
This verse illustrates the importance of community by showing how the Israelites were given specific places to settle. It serves as a reminder that finding a place of belonging within our own communities is essential for connection and purpose.
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