Old Testament
Joshua 15:47
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Ashdod with its towns and villages, Gaza with its towns and villages, up to the river of Egypt, and the coastline of the great sea.
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Ashdod with her towns and her villages, Gaza with her towns and her villages, unto the river of Egypt, and the great sea, and the border thereof:
What Joshua 15:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 15:47, the text outlines the geographical boundaries of the territory assigned to the tribe of Judah. It specifically mentions Ashdod and Gaza, two significant cities along the coastal region of Israel, along with their surrounding towns and villages. The reference to the river of Egypt indicates the southern limit of this territory, while the phrase 'the coastline of the great sea' refers to the Mediterranean Sea, marking the western boundary. This passage emphasizes the importance of these locations in the context of Israel's settlement in the Promised Land, highlighting both the strategic and economic significance of coastal cities. The mention of towns and villages suggests a thriving community and the potential for trade and interaction with neighboring regions. Overall, this verse serves to establish the territorial claims of the Israelites and the fulfillment of God's promise to give them land.
How to apply Joshua 15:47 to your life
Understanding the boundaries of Judah can inspire us to recognize the importance of knowing our own limits and responsibilities. Just as the Israelites were given specific land to inhabit, we too have areas in our lives where we can grow and thrive. Embracing our unique roles can lead to fulfillment 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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The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Joshua 15:47
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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 15:47 mean?
Joshua 15:47 outlines the geographical boundaries of the territory given to the tribe of Judah, highlighting significant cities like Ashdod and Gaza along the Mediterranean coast.
What is the significance of Ashdod and Gaza in Joshua 15:47?
Ashdod and Gaza were important coastal cities for the tribe of Judah, serving as key locations for trade and interaction with neighboring regions.
What does the river of Egypt represent in Joshua 15:47?
In Joshua 15:47, the river of Egypt marks the southern boundary of the territory assigned to Judah, indicating the extent of their land.
What does 'the coastline of the great sea' refer to in this verse?
The phrase 'the coastline of the great sea' in Joshua 15:47 refers to the Mediterranean Sea, which forms the western boundary of the territory for the tribe of Judah.
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