Old Testament
Joshua 15:38
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel,
Compare translations
And Dilean, and Mizpeh, and Joktheel,
What Joshua 15:38 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 15:38, the names Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel are mentioned as part of the territorial boundaries assigned to the tribe of Judah. This verse is part of a larger section that details the land distribution among the tribes of Israel after they entered the Promised Land. Each name represents a specific location that held significance for the tribe, whether for settlement, defense, or agriculture. The mention of these towns highlights the importance of land ownership and the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites a homeland. Understanding these locations helps us appreciate the historical context of the Israelites' journey and their relationship with God, who guided them to these lands. The verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in providing for His people and the importance of community and belonging in the life of faith.
How to apply Joshua 15:38 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of our own communities and the places we call home. Just as the Israelites were given land, we should appreciate the blessings in our lives and strive to contribute positively to our communities, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
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 15:38
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 15:38
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 15:38 mean?
Joshua 15:38 lists the towns Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel as part of the territory allocated to the tribe of Judah. This verse emphasizes the significance of land distribution among the tribes of Israel after entering the Promised Land.
What is the significance of Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel in Joshua 15:38?
Dilean, Mizpeh, and Joktheel are locations that represent the land assigned to the tribe of Judah. Each town played a role in the community's settlement and defense, highlighting the importance of land ownership in fulfilling God's promise to the Israelites.
How does Joshua 15:38 relate to community?
This verse illustrates the importance of community by naming specific towns that were part of the Israelites' heritage. It encourages us to value our own communities and contribute positively to them, similar to how the Israelites established their own.
What themes are present in Joshua 15:38?
Key themes in Joshua 15:38 include land distribution, the significance of the tribe of Judah, God's promises, and the historical context of the Israelites' journey. It also highlights the importance of community and God's faithfulness.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.