Old Testament
Joshua 16:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
It went out from Bethel to Luz, and then passed along to the border of the Archites at Ataroth.
Compare translations
And goeth out from Bethel to Luz, and passeth along unto the borders of Archi to Ataroth,
What Joshua 16:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse describes a specific geographical route taken by the Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land. It mentions the starting point, Bethel, which is significant in biblical history as a place of worship and divine encounters. The journey continues to Luz, another important location, and then moves towards the territory of the Archites, ending at Ataroth. This passage highlights the importance of land and boundaries in the context of the Israelite tribes receiving their inheritance. The mention of these locations serves to establish the historical and cultural significance of the land they were claiming, as well as the fulfillment of God's promises to His people regarding their inheritance. Understanding these locations helps readers appreciate the narrative of the Israelites' journey and their connection to the land.
How to apply Joshua 16:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of our spiritual journey and the places we encounter along the way. Just as the Israelites had specific landmarks in their journey, we too can reflect on the significant moments and places in our lives that shape our faith and relationship with God.
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 Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. 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.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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 16:2
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 16:2
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 16:2 mean?
Joshua 16:2 describes a specific route taken by the Israelites as they settled in the Promised Land, starting from Bethel, passing through Luz, and reaching the border of the Archites at Ataroth. This verse emphasizes the geographical significance of these locations in the context of the Israelites' inheritance.
What is the significance of Bethel in Joshua 16:2?
Bethel is significant in Joshua 16:2 as it is a historical site known for its worship and divine encounters. It marks the starting point of the journey, highlighting its importance in the narrative of the Israelites claiming their land.
What locations are mentioned in Joshua 16:2?
Joshua 16:2 mentions Bethel, Luz, and Ataroth, along with the territory of the Archites. These locations are key landmarks in the Israelites' journey as they settled in the Promised Land.
What does the journey in Joshua 16:2 represent?
The journey in Joshua 16:2 represents the Israelites' movement towards claiming their inheritance in the Promised Land. It illustrates the fulfillment of God's promises and the importance of land and boundaries for the tribes of Israel.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.