Old Testament
Joshua 18:4
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Select three men from each tribe. I will send them to explore the land and describe it according to each tribe's inheritance. Then they will return to me.
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Give out from among you three men for each tribe: and I will send them, and they shall rise, and go through the land, and describe it according to the inheritance of them; and they shall come again to me.
What Joshua 18:4 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Joshua to select three men from each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Their task is to explore the land of Canaan, which God has promised to the Israelites, and to report back on the land's characteristics and resources. This exploration is crucial for determining how to divide the land among the tribes based on their inheritance. The men will gather information about the land's geography, cities, and other important details that will help in the allocation process. This step shows the importance of planning and understanding the land before making decisions about settlement and inheritance. It emphasizes the need for careful consideration and preparation in fulfilling God's promises.
How to apply Joshua 18:4 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of preparation and teamwork in achieving our goals. Just as the Israelites needed to explore the land before settling, we should gather information and collaborate with others when making significant decisions in our lives. Seeking guidance and understanding is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Land Divided at Shiloh (Joshua 18:1–10)
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Joshua
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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Keep studying Joshua 18:4
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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 18:4 mean?
Joshua 18:4 describes God's command to Joshua to select three men from each tribe of Israel to explore the land of Canaan. Their mission is to gather information about the land's characteristics to help allocate it among the tribes according to their inheritance.
What is the significance of exploring the land in Joshua 18:4?
The exploration of the land in Joshua 18:4 is significant because it emphasizes the importance of understanding the territory before making decisions about settlement and inheritance. This careful planning ensures that the land is divided appropriately among the tribes.
What does the term 'inheritance' refer to in Joshua 18:4?
In Joshua 18:4, 'inheritance' refers to the land that each tribe of Israel is to receive as their portion from God. This inheritance is based on God's promise to the Israelites and is crucial for their settlement in Canaan.
How does Joshua 18:4 illustrate teamwork?
Joshua 18:4 illustrates teamwork by highlighting the need for collaboration among the tribes of Israel. By selecting three men from each tribe, the verse shows that gathering diverse perspectives and working together is essential for effective exploration and decision-making.
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