Old Testament
Joshua 15:41
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Joshua 15:41, the verse lists four specific cities: Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah, along with the total number of cities in that region, which is sixteen, including their surrounding villages.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their villages.
And Gederoth, Bethdagon, and Naamah, and Makkedah; sixteen cities with their villages:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 15:41, the verse lists four specific cities: Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah, along with the total number of cities in that region, which is sixteen, including their surrounding villages. This passage is part of the broader context of the Israelites' conquest and settlement of Canaan, where the land was divided among the tribes. Each city mentioned had its own significance, often related to agriculture or trade, and the mention of villages indicates that these cities were not isolated but part of a larger community structure. The listing of cities serves to document the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites, showing how they established their presence in the land. It also highlights the importance of community and organization in their new homeland, as they built cities and villages to support their families and livelihoods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Joshua 15:41 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of community and organization in our lives. Just as the Israelites established cities and villages for support, we should build strong relationships and networks in our own communities. Working together can help us thrive and fulfill our purposes.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 15:41 mean?
Joshua 15:41 lists four cities—Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah—along with a total of sixteen cities and their villages in the region. This verse highlights the organization of the Israelite settlement in Canaan and the fulfillment of God's promise to provide them with land.
What is the significance of the cities mentioned in Joshua 15:41?
The cities Gederoth, Beth Dagon, Naamah, and Makkedah were significant for their roles in agriculture and trade. Their mention indicates the establishment of a structured community as the Israelites settled in Canaan.
How does Joshua 15:41 relate to community building?
This verse illustrates the importance of community by showing how the Israelites built cities and villages to support their families and livelihoods. It emphasizes the need for strong relationships and networks in any community.
What can we learn from Joshua 15:41?
From Joshua 15:41, we learn the value of organization and community in achieving goals. Just as the Israelites established their presence in Canaan, we too should focus on building supportive networks in our own lives.

The Book of Joshua
1: God Commissions Joshua
After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.
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