Old Testament
Joshua 18:21
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The cities of the tribe of Benjamin, according to their families, were Jericho, Beth-hoglah, and the valley of Keziz.
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Now the cities of the tribe of the children of Benjamin according to their families were Jericho, and Bethhoglah, and the valley of Keziz,
What Joshua 18:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 18:21, the text lists specific cities that belong to the tribe of Benjamin, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The cities mentioned are Jericho, known for its historical significance and the miraculous fall of its walls, Beth-hoglah, which is less prominent but still part of the tribal inheritance, and the valley of Keziz, which may refer to a geographical area rather than a specific city. This verse highlights the importance of land distribution among the tribes of Israel as they settle in the Promised Land. Each tribe received its own territory, and the mention of these cities emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites a homeland. The careful recording of these cities also serves to establish the identity and heritage of the tribe of Benjamin, which plays a significant role in the biblical narrative, including the lineage of King Saul and later, the Apostle Paul.
How to apply Joshua 18:21 to your life
Understanding the significance of land and heritage can inspire us to appreciate our own roots and the importance of community. Just as the tribes of Israel were given specific territories, we too can recognize the value of our own places and relationships in shaping our identity and purpose.
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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Jericho
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 18:21 mean?
Joshua 18:21 lists the cities assigned to the tribe of Benjamin, highlighting their territorial inheritance in the Promised Land. It emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites a homeland.
What cities are mentioned in Joshua 18:21?
The cities mentioned in Joshua 18:21 are Jericho, Beth-hoglah, and the valley of Keziz, which are part of the tribal inheritance of Benjamin.
Why is Jericho significant in Joshua 18:21?
Jericho is significant in Joshua 18:21 because it is known for its historical importance, particularly the miraculous event of its walls falling during the Israelite conquest.
What is the importance of land distribution in Joshua 18:21?
The land distribution in Joshua 18:21 is important as it reflects God's promise to the Israelites and establishes the identity and heritage of the tribe of Benjamin.
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