Old Testament
Joshua 18:11
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The lot for the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families, and their territory was between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph.
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And the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families: and the coast of their lot came forth between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph.
What Joshua 18:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the land allocation for the tribe of Benjamin is described. The process of dividing the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel involved casting lots, which was a way to seek God's guidance. Benjamin's territory was situated strategically between the tribes of Judah and Joseph, indicating its importance and central location. This placement not only provided Benjamin with fertile land but also positioned them as a bridge between the northern and southern tribes. The mention of families highlights the importance of lineage and inheritance in Israelite culture, ensuring that each family received its rightful portion of land. This allocation reflects God's promise to the Israelites to provide them with a homeland, fulfilling His covenant with their ancestors. The verse emphasizes the significance of community and the divine order in the distribution of land, showcasing how each tribe had a unique role in the nation of Israel.
How to apply Joshua 18:11 to your life
Understanding the significance of land and community in this verse reminds us of the importance of our own relationships and responsibilities within our communities. We should seek to honor our heritage and contribute positively to the places we belong, recognizing the roles we play in the lives of others.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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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 18:11 mean?
Joshua 18:11 describes the allocation of land to the tribe of Benjamin, highlighting its location between the tribes of Judah and Joseph. This verse illustrates the process of dividing the Promised Land through casting lots, which was believed to reflect God's guidance.
What is the significance of Benjamin's location in Joshua 18:11?
Benjamin's territory is strategically placed between Judah and Joseph, symbolizing its importance as a central point among the tribes of Israel. This positioning allowed Benjamin to play a crucial role in connecting the northern and southern tribes.
What does the term 'lot' refer to in Joshua 18:11?
In Joshua 18:11, 'lot' refers to the method used to determine land allocations among the tribes of Israel. Casting lots was a practice believed to seek divine guidance in making important decisions.
How does Joshua 18:11 relate to the concept of inheritance?
Joshua 18:11 emphasizes the importance of inheritance by detailing how land was allocated to families within the tribe of Benjamin. This reflects the cultural significance of lineage and the right to land ownership in Israelite society.
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