Old Testament
Joshua 19:40
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The seventh lot was drawn for the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families.
Compare translations
And the seventh lot came out for the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families.
What Joshua 19:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the focus is on the allocation of land among the tribes of Israel, specifically the tribe of Dan. The phrase 'the seventh lot' indicates that this was the seventh division of land determined by casting lots, a method used to make decisions in ancient Israel. The land was divided according to the families within the tribe, ensuring that each family received a portion of land. This process highlights the importance of fairness and divine guidance in the distribution of resources among the tribes. The tribe of Dan, like the others, was given a specific area to inhabit, which was crucial for their identity and survival as a community. This allocation was part of a larger narrative about the Israelites settling in the Promised Land, fulfilling God's promise to them. The mention of families emphasizes the significance of family units in Israelite society, where land ownership was tied to family heritage and legacy, reinforcing the communal aspect of their culture.
How to apply Joshua 19:40 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of fairness and community in our own lives. Just as the Israelites received their land through a fair process, we should strive to ensure that resources and opportunities are distributed equitably among those around us. Supporting one another strengthens our communities.
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 David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. 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.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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 19:40
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 19:40
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 19:40 mean?
Joshua 19:40 refers to the allocation of land to the tribe of Dan, marking it as the seventh division made by casting lots. This process ensured that each family within the tribe received a fair portion of land, highlighting the importance of community and divine guidance in the distribution of resources.
What is the significance of the seventh lot in Joshua 19:40?
The seventh lot in Joshua 19:40 signifies the specific allocation of land to the tribe of Dan among the twelve tribes of Israel. It represents a method of decision-making that reflects fairness and divine direction in the settlement of the Promised Land.
How does Joshua 19:40 relate to family heritage?
Joshua 19:40 relates to family heritage by showing that land was allocated to families within the tribe of Dan. This allocation underscores the significance of family units in Israelite culture, where land ownership was closely tied to family legacy.
What themes are present in Joshua 19:40?
Themes in Joshua 19:40 include land allocation, the tribe of Dan, divine guidance in decision-making, family heritage, and community identity. These themes highlight the structured approach to settling the Promised Land and the importance of fairness in resource distribution.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.