Old Testament
Joshua 15:5
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The eastern border was the Salt Sea, extending to the end of the Jordan. The northern border started from the bay of the sea at the farthest part of the Jordan.
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And the east border was the salt sea, even unto the end of Jordan. And their border in the north quarter was from the bay of the sea at the uttermost part of Jordan:
What Joshua 15:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 15:5, the text describes the geographical boundaries of the land allocated to the tribe of Judah. The eastern border is defined by the Salt Sea, which is another name for the Dead Sea, and it stretches to the end of the Jordan River. This indicates that the eastern limit of Judah's territory is marked by this significant body of water. The northern border begins at the bay of the sea, which refers to the area where the Jordan River meets the Dead Sea. This description is crucial for understanding the territorial divisions among the tribes of Israel as they settle in the Promised Land. It highlights the importance of geographical landmarks in defining boundaries and the significance of the Jordan River in the history of the Israelites. The precise delineation of borders also reflects God's promise to the Israelites regarding their inheritance in the land.
How to apply Joshua 15:5 to your life
Understanding the boundaries set in Joshua 15:5 can remind us of the importance of knowing our own limits and responsibilities. Just as the Israelites were given specific territories, we too have roles and areas in our lives where we can serve and grow. Recognizing these can help us focus our efforts effectively.
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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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 15:5 mean?
Joshua 15:5 outlines the geographical boundaries of the land given to the tribe of Judah. It specifies that the eastern border is the Salt Sea, or Dead Sea, and the northern border starts at the bay where the Jordan River meets the Dead Sea.
What is the significance of the Salt Sea in Joshua 15:5?
In Joshua 15:5, the Salt Sea, also known as the Dead Sea, serves as a key geographical marker for the eastern boundary of Judah's territory. This highlights the importance of natural landmarks in defining the land allocated to the tribes of Israel.
What does the northern border refer to in Joshua 15:5?
The northern border mentioned in Joshua 15:5 refers to the area starting from the bay of the sea at the farthest point of the Jordan River. This indicates the specific location where Judah's territory begins in the north.
How does Joshua 15:5 relate to the land allocation for the tribes of Israel?
Joshua 15:5 is part of the broader context of land allocation among the tribes of Israel, detailing the specific borders for the tribe of Judah. This verse emphasizes the organized distribution of land as part of God's promise to the Israelites.
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