Old Testament
Judges 1:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Judges 1:11, the narrative describes a military campaign by the Israelites against the city of Debir, which was previously known as Kirjath-sepher.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel
- Written
- Around 1050-1000 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites living under the judges
From there they marched against the people of Debir, which used to be called Kirjath-sepher.
And from thence he went against the inhabitants of Debir: and the name of Debir before was Kirjathsepher:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Judges 1:11, the narrative describes a military campaign by the Israelites against the city of Debir, which was previously known as Kirjath-sepher. This verse highlights the ongoing conquest of the Promised Land by the tribes of Israel after the death of Joshua. The mention of the city's former name indicates a historical context and the significance of renaming places after conquest, symbolizing a new beginning for the Israelites. The verse emphasizes the importance of taking possession of the land that God promised to them. The act of marching against Debir reflects the Israelites' commitment to fulfill God's command to drive out the inhabitants of the land. This passage serves as a reminder of the challenges faced during their journey and the faith required to overcome them, as well as the importance of remembering the history of places and their significance in God's plan.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Judges 1:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to confront challenges in our lives with faith and determination, just as the Israelites did. It reminds us that overcoming obstacles often requires action and trust in God's promises. Reflecting on our own 'Debirs' can inspire us to pursue our goals with courage.
Curated for this public verse page. Judges Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Judges 1:11 mean?
Judges 1:11 describes the Israelites' military campaign against the city of Debir, previously known as Kirjath-sepher. This verse illustrates their ongoing efforts to conquer the Promised Land and highlights the significance of renaming places after victory.
What is the significance of Debir in Judges 1:11?
Debir, mentioned in Judges 1:11, represents a city that the Israelites aimed to conquer as part of their journey to claim the Promised Land. Its former name, Kirjath-sepher, signifies a historical context and the transformation that comes with conquest.
What does Kirjath-sepher mean in Judges 1:11?
Kirjath-sepher, the former name of Debir in Judges 1:11, translates to 'City of the Book' or 'City of Letters.' This name change reflects the cultural and historical significance of the city as the Israelites took possession of the land.
How does Judges 1:11 relate to faith?
Judges 1:11 illustrates the Israelites' faith and determination as they confront the city of Debir. It serves as a reminder that overcoming life's challenges often requires action and trust in God's promises.

The Book of Judges
Judges 1–2: Incomplete Conquest and the Cycle of Sin
After the death of Joshua, the tribes of Israel inquire of the Lord who should first go up to fight the remaining Canaanites. Judah is chosen and, with the help of the tribe of Simeon, achieves several victories, but fails to drive out the inhabitants of the coastal plain because they have iron chariots. The book then details the failures of the other tribes—Benjamin, Manasseh, Ephraim, Zebulun, Asher, and Naphtali—to completely dispossess the Canaanites from their allotted territories. Instead of driving them out, the Israelites put them to forced labor, allowing pagan influences to remain in the land. An angel of the Lord appears at Bochim and rebukes the people for breaking their covenant with God by making treaties with the inhabitants of the land. The people weep and offer sacrifices, but the pattern of disobedience is set.
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