Old Testament
Joshua 9:17
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The Israelites traveled and arrived at their cities on the third day. These cities were Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim.
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And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim.
What Joshua 9:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Israelites are described as having traveled for three days before reaching their cities. The specific cities mentioned—Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim—are significant locations within the territory that the Israelites were conquering. This journey highlights the commitment and endurance of the Israelites as they moved through the land. The mention of the third day indicates a specific timeframe, emphasizing the distance they covered and the planning involved in their travels. These cities were part of the land that God had promised to them, and their arrival marks a step in fulfilling that promise. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges and the fulfillment of God's promises over time. It also sets the stage for the events that follow, as the Israelites continue to establish themselves in the land.
How to apply Joshua 9:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain steadfast in our journeys, both physically and spiritually. Just as the Israelites traveled diligently to reach their promised land, we too should pursue our goals with determination, trusting that our efforts will lead to fulfillment in due time.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Gibeonites' Trick (Joshua 9:1–27)
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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 9:17
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Key themes
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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 9:17 mean?
Joshua 9:17 describes the Israelites' journey to their cities after three days of travel. It emphasizes their commitment and the significance of the cities they reached, which were part of the land promised to them by God.
What cities are mentioned in Joshua 9:17?
The cities mentioned in Joshua 9:17 are Gibeon, Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim. These locations were important as the Israelites settled in the land they were conquering.
What is the significance of the third day in Joshua 9:17?
The mention of the third day in Joshua 9:17 highlights the specific timeframe of the Israelites' journey, indicating the distance they traveled and their determination to reach their promised land.
What themes are present in Joshua 9:17?
Key themes in Joshua 9:17 include journey, perseverance, divine promise, and geographical significance, as it reflects the Israelites' commitment to settling in the land God promised them.
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