Old Testament
Joshua 18:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The Jordan River was the eastern border. This was the inheritance of the children of Benjamin, according to their families, with its surrounding borders.
Compare translations
And Jordan was the border of it on the east side. This was the inheritance of the children of Benjamin, by the coasts thereof round about, according to their families.
What Joshua 18:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 18:20, the verse describes the land allocated to the tribe of Benjamin, which is bordered by the Jordan River on the east. This allocation is part of the larger process of distributing the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. The mention of 'according to their families' indicates that the land was divided among the families within the tribe, ensuring that each family received a portion of the inheritance. The Jordan River serves as a significant geographical marker, symbolizing both a physical boundary and a spiritual significance, as it was the river that the Israelites crossed to enter the Promised Land. This verse highlights the importance of land inheritance in Israelite culture, where land ownership was tied to identity and heritage. The careful delineation of borders reflects God's promise to His people and the fulfillment of His covenant with them, emphasizing the importance of community and family in the distribution of blessings.
How to apply Joshua 18:20 to your life
Understanding the significance of land inheritance can inspire us to appreciate our own spiritual heritage. Just as the Israelites received their portion, we too have a spiritual inheritance through faith. This encourages us to value our community and family ties, recognizing the blessings we have received and the responsibilities that come with them.
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 Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, 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.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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 18:20
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 18:20
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 18:20 mean?
Joshua 18:20 describes the land given to the tribe of Benjamin, indicating that the Jordan River marks its eastern border. This verse highlights the process of land distribution among the tribes of Israel, emphasizing the importance of family inheritance.
What is the significance of the Jordan River in Joshua 18:20?
In Joshua 18:20, the Jordan River serves as a crucial geographical boundary for the tribe of Benjamin's inheritance. It symbolizes both a physical marker of territory and a spiritual significance, as it was the river the Israelites crossed to enter the Promised Land.
How was land divided among the tribes in Joshua 18:20?
In Joshua 18:20, land was divided among the tribes of Israel according to their families, ensuring that each family received a portion of the inheritance. This method of distribution highlights the importance of family ties and community in the context of land ownership.
What themes are present in Joshua 18:20?
Joshua 18:20 encompasses themes of land inheritance, the significance of the tribe of Benjamin, the role of geographical boundaries, and the importance of family heritage. It also reflects God's promise to His people and the fulfillment of their covenant.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.