Old Testament
Joshua 21:32
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
From the tribe of Naphtali, they received Kedesh in Galilee with its pasturelands as a city of refuge for the slayer, along with Hammothdor with its pasturelands, and Kartan with its pasturelands—three cities in total.
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And out of the tribe of Naphtali, Kedesh in Galilee with her suburbs, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Hammothdor with her suburbs, and Kartan with her suburbs; three cities.
What Joshua 21:32 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see the allocation of cities to the tribe of Naphtali, specifically three cities: Kedesh, Hammothdor, and Kartan. Kedesh is highlighted as a city of refuge, which means it was a safe haven for someone who accidentally killed another person. The purpose of these cities was to provide protection and a fair trial for the slayer, preventing revenge killings by the victim's family. The mention of pasturelands indicates that these cities were not only places of safety but also had resources to support the inhabitants. This allocation reflects God's provision for justice and mercy within the community, ensuring that those who committed unintentional harm had a place to seek refuge and live without fear of retribution. The cities served as a reminder of the importance of justice and the need for a system that protects the innocent while addressing wrongdoing.
How to apply Joshua 21:32 to your life
This verse encourages us to create safe spaces in our communities where individuals can find refuge and support. It reminds us of the importance of justice and mercy, urging us to be advocates for those who are vulnerable and to ensure fair treatment for all.
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Keep studying Joshua 21:32
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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 21:32 mean?
Joshua 21:32 describes the allocation of three cities to the tribe of Naphtali, including Kedesh, which served as a city of refuge for individuals who accidentally killed someone. This verse highlights God's provision for justice and safety within the community.
What is the significance of Kedesh in Joshua 21:32?
Kedesh is significant in Joshua 21:32 as it is designated as a city of refuge, providing safety for those who committed unintentional harm. It symbolizes a place where individuals could seek protection from revenge and ensure a fair trial.
What are the cities mentioned in Joshua 21:32?
The cities mentioned in Joshua 21:32 are Kedesh, Hammothdor, and Kartan. Kedesh is specifically noted as a city of refuge, while the other two cities also provided support and resources for their inhabitants.
How does Joshua 21:32 relate to justice and mercy?
Joshua 21:32 relates to justice and mercy by establishing cities of refuge where individuals who accidentally caused harm could find safety. This system reflects the importance of protecting the innocent and ensuring fair treatment in the face of wrongdoing.
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