Joshua Chapter 19
(Joshua 19:1–9) The boundaries and cities for the tribe of Simeon
Scripture (King James Version):
“And the second lot came forth to Simeon, even for the tribe of the children of Simeon according to their families: and their inheritance was within the inheritance of the children of Judah. And they had in their inheritance Beersheba, or Sheba, and Moladah, And Hazarshual, And Balah, and Azem, And Eltolad, and Bethul, and Hormah, And Ziklag, And Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusah, And Bethlebaoth, and Sharuhen; thirteen cities and their villages: Ain, Remmon, and Ether, and Ashan; four cities and their villages: And all the villages that were round about these cities to Baalathbeer, Ramath of the south. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Simeon according to their families. Out of the portion of the children of Judah was the inheritance of the children of Simeon: for the part of the children of Judah was too much for them: therefore the children of Simeon had their inheritance within the inheritance of them.”
a. Their inheritance was within the inheritance of Judah
Unlike the other tribes that received distinct territories, the tribe of Simeon received land carved out from within the territory of Judah. This was not by accident or oversight, but by the providence of God. It fulfilled Jacob’s prophecy in Genesis 49:5–7, where Simeon and Levi were told they would be scattered in Israel due to their violence at Shechem. Judah’s inheritance was large, more than they could fully occupy or manage, and Simeon was placed within it. This fulfilled prophecy while still showing God’s mercy in allowing Simeon a defined inheritance rather than complete dispersion.
b. The generosity and abundance of Judah’s territory
The text says, “for the part of the children of Judah was too much for them.” Judah received a large and fertile region including cities, villages, pasturelands, and wilderness. They could not fully utilize all of it, so part of it was allocated to Simeon. This emphasizes two truths: first, God provides in abundance; second, God expects His people to share what they have been given rather than hoard it. Judah did not lose anything in giving land to Simeon, and Simeon gained a home through another tribe’s overflow. This demonstrates unity and cooperation among the tribes.
c. The named cities and their significance
Thirteen cities are named first, then four more, totaling seventeen key population centers with their villages. Cities like Beersheba, Ziklag, and Hormah stand out.
Beersheba becomes a well-known marker in Israel’s geography, often paired with Dan in the phrase “from Dan even to Beersheba” (Judges 20:1), marking the southernmost boundary.
Ziklag is the city later given to David by Achish king of Gath (1 Samuel 27:6), and it became a base of operations for David before he became king.
Hormah was a place of judgment and later victory for Israel (Numbers 14:45, Judges 1:17).
These names show that Simeon's territory, though within Judah, included strategically important locations with deep historical and spiritual connections.
d. The prophetic consequences for Simeon
Though they received cities and land, Simeon’s territory was not entirely distinct or independent. Over time, they became absorbed into Judah. This was the beginning of their fading identity as a tribe, another fulfillment of Jacob’s prophecy. Yet God preserved them; they were not destroyed or forgotten. Their land was secure, and they had a place among the covenant people. God’s judgment on Simeon was tempered with mercy, showing justice and grace operating together.
e. Spiritual application
God is faithful to His Word, both in blessing and in chastening. Simeon’s inheritance within Judah reminds believers that disobedience can bring lasting consequences, but it does not remove us from God’s covenant care. It also teaches us that sometimes our portion in life is connected to others; Simeon did not stand alone but dwelt within Judah. Spiritually, this reminds us that no believer is meant to be isolated, and our inheritance is always connected to our place among God’s people.
(Joshua 19:10–16) The boundaries and cities for the tribe of Zebulun
Scripture (King James Version):
“And the third lot came up for the children of Zebulun according to their families: and the border of their inheritance was unto Sarid: And their border went up toward the sea, and Maralah, and reached to Dabbasheth, and reached to the river that is before Jokneam; And turned from Sarid eastward toward the sunrising unto the border of Chislothtabor, and then goeth out to Daberath, and goeth up to Japhia, And from thence passeth on along on the east to Gittahhepher, to Ittahkazin, and goeth out to Remmon which bordereth on Neah; And the border compasseth it on the north side to Hannathon: and the outgoings thereof are in the valley of Jiphthahel: And Kattath, and Nahallal, and Shimron, and Idalah, and Bethlehem: twelve cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the children of Zebulun according to their families, these cities with their villages.”
a. The third lot and Zebulun’s inheritance
The tribe of Zebulun received the third lot, showing that God’s distribution of the land was orderly and impartial. Each tribe received its portion through the casting of lots before the Lord. This ensured no man could claim favoritism or manipulation. As Proverbs 16:33 says, “The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord.” The inheritance of Zebulun was divinely appointed and perfectly suited to God’s purpose for this tribe.
b. Strategic location between sea and valley
Though the text does not specify Zebulun’s borders reaching directly to the Mediterranean Sea, it does indicate that its western boundary faced toward it. Zebulun’s possession lay between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sea of Galilee region, bordered by Issachar to the south and Naphtali to the north. This placed the tribe on key trade routes connecting the coast to the inland valleys. Later, Deuteronomy 33:18–19 prophesied of Zebulun, “Rejoice, Zebulun, in thy going out; and Issachar, in thy tents. They shall call the people unto the mountain; there they shall offer sacrifices of righteousness: for they shall suck of the abundance of the seas, and of treasures hid in the sand.” Though inland, Zebulun would profit from trade, caravans, and access to maritime goods.
c. Cities of note: prophecy and history
Twelve main cities are listed, with their surrounding villages. Among them:
Gath-hepher is notable as the hometown of the prophet Jonah, son of Amittai (2 Kings 14:25). This ties Zebulun to prophetic ministry centuries later.
Bethlehem listed here is not the Bethlehem of Judah where Christ was born, but another Bethlehem in Galilee (Joshua 19:15), later called Bethlehem of Zebulun.
Jiphthah-el Valley formed a natural northern boundary and became a recognized geographical feature in Israel.
These cities reveal Zebulun’s inheritance as fertile, strategic, and historically significant.
d. Fulfillment of Jacob’s prophecy
Jacob prophesied concerning Zebulun in Genesis 49:13, saying, “Zebulun shall dwell at the haven of the sea; and he shall be for an haven of ships; and his border shall be unto Zidon.” Though their territory did not physically reach Sidon or lie directly on the seacoast, their land connected major caravan and trade routes to the sea. Zebulun prospered through commercial activity and access to the coast through alliances and trade agreements. God’s prophecies are always fulfilled, though sometimes in ways that differ from human expectations.
e. Spiritual application
Zebulun’s land teaches that God appoints each believer’s portion with care and design. Some inherit mountains, others valleys or coastlands, yet all are assigned by God’s will. Zebulun lay between larger, more dominant tribes, yet God used them in prophecy, commerce, and service. Just as they supported Issachar and later rejoiced in the Messiah’s light (Isaiah 9:1–2, Matthew 4:13–15), believers must be content with their lot and faithful in their sphere. God often uses the quiet tribes in profound ways.
(Joshua 19:17–23) The boundaries and cities for the tribe of Issachar
Scripture (King James Version):
“And the fourth lot came out to Issachar, for the children of Issachar according to their families. And their border was toward Jezreel, and Chesulloth, and Shunem, And Haphraim, and Shihon, and Anaharath, And Rabbith, and Kishion, and Abez, And Remeth, and Engannim, and Enhaddah, and Bethpazzez; And the coast reacheth to Tabor, and Shahazimah, and Bethshemesh; and the outgoings of their border were at Jordan: sixteen cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Issachar according to their families, the cities and their villages.”
a. The fourth lot and Issachar’s inheritance
The lot for Issachar came out fourth, showing once again that the apportionment of land was done in divine order under God’s direction. Each tribe received what was suited to its purpose and character. Issachar’s portion lay in the fertile Jezreel Valley, one of the richest agricultural regions in all of Israel. God placed Issachar in a land of abundance, granting them both prosperity and responsibility. This region would become a vital corridor for trade, war, and prophecy throughout Israel’s history.
b. The fertile plain of Jezreel
The text begins with Jezreel, the most prominent city in Issachar’s inheritance. The valley of Jezreel stretched from Mount Carmel to the Jordan, forming a vast and fruitful plain. This valley later became a key battleground in Israel’s history, where Deborah and Barak defeated Sisera (Judges 4–5), where Gideon triumphed over Midian (Judges 7), and where Saul fell before the Philistines (1 Samuel 31:1). The name “Jezreel” means “God sows,” fitting for a region of agricultural richness, but also prophetic of God’s future dealings with Israel as seen in Hosea 1:4–11.
c. Cities of note: prophetic and historical importance
Shunem became the home of the Shunammite woman who showed hospitality to Elisha (2 Kings 4:8–37), where God later performed the miracle of raising her son from the dead.
En-gannim (“spring of gardens”) indicates the fertility of Issachar’s land, rich with water and vegetation.
Beth-shemesh (“house of the sun”) lay near the eastern edge of the territory, marking the transition toward the Jordan River.
Tabor on the boundary of Issachar’s land, was later known as Mount Tabor, where Barak assembled his army under Deborah’s command (Judges 4:6).
Each name represents a site of divine activity, demonstrating that Issachar’s land was a stage for God’s work among His people.
d. Fulfillment of Jacob’s prophecy
Jacob prophesied of Issachar in Genesis 49:14–15, saying, “Issachar is a strong ass couching down between two burdens: And he saw that rest was good, and the land that it was pleasant; and bowed his shoulder to bear, and became a servant unto tribute.” This prophecy fits Issachar’s placement in a fertile but contested plain. They enjoyed the blessings of the land but often found themselves under the dominion of others due to the strategic nature of their territory. Their tribe would value peace and prosperity, but at times at the expense of freedom. Yet God’s design still provided them a good inheritance.
e. Spiritual application
Issachar’s territory reminds believers that God may place us in places of both blessing and battle. The Jezreel Valley was both a place of fruitfulness and of war, teaching that God’s blessings often come with responsibilities and trials. Like Issachar, believers must bear their burdens faithfully, laboring diligently in the place God assigns them. Their prophetic history also shows how God works through ordinary people—farmers, soldiers, and families—to accomplish His purposes.
(Joshua 19:24–31) The boundaries and cities for the tribe of Asher
Scripture (King James Version):
“And the fifth lot came out for the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families. And their border was Helkath, and Hali, and Beten, and Achshaph, And Alammelech, and Amad, and Misheal; and reacheth to Carmel westward, and to Shihorlibnath; And turneth toward the sunrising to Bethdagon, and reacheth to Zebulun, and to the valley of Jiphthahel toward the north side of Beth-emek, and Neiel, and goeth out to Cabul on the left hand, And Hebron, and Rehob, and Hammon, and Kanah, even unto great Zidon; And then the coast turneth to Ramah, and to the strong city Tyre; and the coast turneth to Hosah; and the outgoings thereof are at the sea from the coast to Achzib: Ummah also, and Aphek, and Rehob: twenty and two cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Asher according to their families, these cities with their villages.”
a. The fifth lot: Asher’s inheritance by divine appointment
The tribe of Asher received the fifth portion of land, determined by lot before the Lord. Their territory lay along the northwestern coast of Canaan, stretching from Mount Carmel in the south up toward the great Phoenician cities of Sidon and Tyre in the north. Asher’s land was one of the most fertile and prosperous regions, rich in agriculture and trade routes. God placed Asher in a coastal region of abundance, fulfilling Jacob’s prophetic blessing.
b. Geographic features and natural wealth
Asher’s territory reached Mount Carmel westward, a mountain ridge overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. From there it extended along the Brook Shihor-libnath, most likely a coastal stream south of Carmel. To the east, it bordered Zebulun and the Valley of Jiphthah-el. This land included rolling hills, fertile valleys, olive groves, vineyards, and access to the sea. Later, Moses would bless Asher, saying in Deuteronomy 33:24–25, “Let Asher be blessed with children; let him be acceptable to his brethren, and let him dip his foot in oil. Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.” The phrase “dip his foot in oil” points to the land’s richness, especially its production of olive oil.
c. Cities of note: between Israel and Phoenicia
Asher’s cities reveal how closely they bordered the powerful Phoenician civilization:
Great Sidon: A dominant port city, renowned for trade, craftsmanship, and idolatry. Though within Asher’s described boundary, Israel never fully possessed Sidon (Judges 1:31).
Tyre: A fortified island and coastal city, later known for its wealth, pride, and eventual judgment (Ezekiel 26–28).
Cabul: A district later given by Solomon to Hiram king of Tyre, which displeased him (1 Kings 9:11–13).
These cities testify that Asher was placed in a region of great opportunity and great temptation. They could prosper through trade, yet they were surrounded by pagan influence.
d. A tribe blessed, yet often complacent
Despite the richness of their land, Asher struggled with obedience. Judges 1:31–32 says, “Neither did Asher drive out the inhabitants of Accho, nor the inhabitants of Zidon… but the Asherites dwelt among the Canaanites.” Instead of conquering the land fully, they lived alongside idolaters and absorbed their customs. In Judges 5:17, during Deborah’s war against Sisera, it says, “Asher continued on the sea shore, and abode in his breaches.” They stayed home rather than fight, preferring comfort over conflict. Their land was good, but their faithfulness was weak.
e. Spiritual application
Asher’s inheritance is a lesson in the danger of comfort without commitment. God may place His people in places of prosperity and peace, but without obedience, those blessings become snares. Asher was given oil, trade, fertile land, access to the sea, and proximity to the world’s wealthiest ports, yet they often failed to stand for holiness. Believers must not allow prosperity to dull their obedience. We are called to occupy fully what God has given us, resisting the influence of the world around us.
(Joshua 19:32–39) The boundaries and cities for the tribe of Naphtali
Scripture (King James Version):
“The sixth lot came out to the children of Naphtali, even for the children of Naphtali according to their families. And their coast was from Heleph, from Allon to Zaanannim, and Adami, Nekeb, and Jabneel, unto Lakum; and the outgoings thereof were at Jordan: And then the coast turneth westward to Aznothtabor, and goeth out from thence to Hukkok, and reacheth to Zebulun on the south side, and reacheth to Asher on the west side, and to Judah upon Jordan toward the sunrising. And the fenced cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, And Adamah, and Ramah, and Hazor, And Kedesh, and Edrei, and Enhazor, And Iron, and Migdalel, Horem, and Bethanath, and Bethshemesh; nineteen cities with their villages. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Naphtali according to their families, the cities and their villages.”
a. The sixth lot: Naphtali’s inheritance
The tribe of Naphtali received the sixth lot. Their land lay in the northern part of Israel, west of the Jordan River, stretching from the northern shores of the Sea of Galilee (called Chinnereth) up toward the region of Lebanon. Naphtali’s territory was beautiful and fertile, filled with mountains, forests, water sources, and fortified cities. This region would later be known as Galilee, where much of Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry would take place, making Naphtali’s land prophetically significant.
b. Geographic placement and tribal boundaries
Naphtali bordered Zebulun to the south and Asher to the west. To the east, its border reached the Jordan River and the Sea of Galilee. The land description mentions landmarks such as Allon to Zaanannim, which corresponds to the plains near Kedesh where Deborah and Barak assembled before battle (Judges 4:11). Naphtali was strategically positioned between inland valleys and northern trade routes, giving them access to agriculture, water, defense, and commerce.
c. Major cities of note
Nineteen fortified cities with their villages are listed. Among the most significant:
Chinnereth (Sea of Galilee region): This gave Naphtali shoreline access to one of Israel’s most important freshwater lakes.
Hazor: The strongest Canaanite city in northern Israel, destroyed by Joshua (Joshua 11:10). It became a royal city and later rebuilt under oppression (Judges 4:2).
Kedesh: A Levitical city and a city of refuge (Joshua 20:7). It was also the hometown of Barak (Judges 4:6).
Ramah and Adamah: Show the agricultural and defensive strength of Naphtali’s land.
Migdal-el (meaning “tower of God”): A name pointing to fortified strength and security.
Naphtali’s cities combined military significance, prophetic purpose, and historical importance.
d. Fulfillment of prophecy and future messianic importance
Naphtali, though small and distant, became one of the first regions to see the light of the Messiah. Isaiah 9:1–2 prophesied, “Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation... by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light.” This prophecy was fulfilled in Matthew 4:13–16, when Jesus lived in Capernaum by the Sea of Galilee, within the borders of Zebulun and Naphtali. God chose a land once afflicted by Gentile invasion to be the first to receive the Gospel’s light.
e. Spiritual application
Naphtali teaches that places once marked by warfare, obscurity, or hardship can become places of divine favor and revelation. Though geographically distant from Jerusalem and often exposed to Gentile influence, Naphtali became central to the ministry of Jesus Christ. God often takes what seems insignificant and uses it for eternal impact. Believers must remain faithful with their inheritance, no matter how small or remote it seems, for God may choose it as the place where His glory appears.
(Joshua 19:40–48) The boundaries and cities for the tribe of Dan
Scripture (King James Version):
“And the seventh lot came out for the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families. And the coast of their inheritance was Zorah, and Eshtaol, and Irshemesh, And Shaalabbin, and Ajalon, and Jethlah, And Elon, and Thimnathah, and Ekron, And Eltekeh, and Gibbethon, and Baalath, And Jehud, and Beneberak, and Gathrimmon, And Mejarkon, and Rakkon, with the border before Japho. And the coast of the children of Dan went out too little for them: therefore the children of Dan went up to fight against Leshem, and took it, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and possessed it, and dwelt therein, and called Leshem, Dan, after the name of Dan their father. This is the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Dan according to their families, these cities with their villages.”
a. The seventh lot: Dan’s inheritance appointed
Dan received the seventh and final allotment of land. Their territory lay in the lowland region west of Benjamin and Judah, near the Philistine territories. It included important cities such as Zorah, Eshtaol, Timnah, and Ekron. This area was strategically located but heavily contested by the Philistines. God gave Dan a place of promise, but it would require courage and obedience to fully possess it.
b. A difficult land to possess
Unlike other tribes, Dan struggled severely with occupying their territory. The text says, “the coast of the children of Dan went out too little for them.” This does not mean the land was too small in area, but rather that they could not fully control or inhabit it due to enemy resistance and their own lack of resolve. The Philistines, powerful and militarily advanced, dominated the region. Instead of trusting God for victory, much of Dan failed to drive them out.
c. Expansion to the north – the conquest of Leshem (Laish)
Because of pressure from the Philistines and others, a portion of the tribe migrated north. They attacked Leshem (also called Laish, Judges 18), a quiet and unsuspecting city near the source of the Jordan River. They conquered it, renamed it Dan, after their ancestor, and settled there. This relocation fulfilled, in part, Jacob’s prophecy in Genesis 49:17, “Dan shall be a serpent by the way.” From this point on, Israel’s northern territory became marked by the phrase “from Dan to Beersheba” (Judges 20:1), indicating the whole span of the land.
d. Dan’s tragic legacy – birthplace of idolatry
Though Dan was given a rich inheritance, their tribe later became known more for compromise than conquest. In Judges 18:30–31, when they settled in the northern city of Dan, they set up a carved image and established their own priesthood, separate from the tabernacle at Shiloh. Later, Jeroboam placed one of the golden calves in Dan (1 Kings 12:28–30). This made Dan a center of idolatry for generations and is likely why the tribe of Dan is omitted from the list of tribes in Revelation 7:4–8. They traded obedience for convenience and spiritual truth for false worship.
e. Spiritual application
Dan’s inheritance is a solemn warning. God gives each believer a place to serve and a calling to fulfill, but if we refuse to trust Him in difficulty, we may abandon our responsibility and seek an easier path. Dan left their God-given inheritance instead of fighting for it. Worse, in their new land, they established idolatry instead of righteousness. This reminds us that avoiding spiritual battles leads to greater spiritual compromise. We must stand our ground in the place God has given us, trusting Him to conquer our enemies.
(Joshua 19:49–51) Joshua’s inheritance
Scripture (King James Version):
“When they had made an end of dividing the land for inheritance by their coasts, the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua the son of Nun among them: According to the word of the Lord they gave him the city which he asked, even Timnathserah in mount Ephraim: and he built the city, and dwelt therein. These are the inheritances, which Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel, divided for an inheritance by lot in Shiloh before the Lord, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. So they made an end of dividing the country.”
a. Joshua receives his inheritance last
Joshua waited until all the tribes received their inheritance before taking his own. This was not due to neglect or oversight, but because of humility and servant leadership. He had every right to claim land first—he was the leader of Israel, God’s appointed successor to Moses, and a faithful warrior who wholly followed the Lord. Yet Joshua chose to put the people before himself. This reflects the spirit of Christ, of whom it is written in Philippians 2:3–5, “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves... Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”
b. His inheritance was given “according to the word of the Lord”
Joshua did not take his portion by force or favoritism. The text makes it clear—it was “according to the word of the Lord.” God Himself approved the giving of Timnath-serah to Joshua. This place was located in Mount Ephraim, within the territory of his tribe. He asked for it, not out of greed, but because it was a quiet, mountainous region where he could dwell in peace after years of warfare and leadership. The name Timnath-serah means “portion of abundance” or “generous portion,” signifying God’s faithfulness to reward those who serve Him.
c. Joshua builds and dwells in the city
The Scripture says, “and he built the city, and dwelt therein.” This implies the city either did not exist before or had to be repaired from ruins. Joshua did not choose a city already flourishing; he chose a place that required work. Even in receiving his inheritance, he labored. This reflects his character—faithful, diligent, and not afraid to work for what God gave him. He did not choose a coastal city, fertile valley, or wealthy trade center; he chose a quiet mountain home among his people.
d. The leaders finish the division of the land at Shiloh
This passage concludes the entire process of dividing Canaan. It was completed “at Shiloh before the Lord, at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.” This emphasizes that the allotment of land was not a political act, but a sacred act conducted in the presence of God. Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and the tribal leaders all worked together. The land was not divided by human strategy, but by divine sovereignty. Shiloh, where the tabernacle rested, becomes the spiritual center of Israel for years to come.
e. Joshua as a type of Christ
Joshua’s humility, obedience, and servant leadership make him a strong foreshadowing of Jesus Christ.
Joshua led the people into their inheritance; Christ leads believers into their heavenly inheritance.
Joshua fought and gained victory; Christ conquered sin and death.
Joshua waited until all others received their portion before taking his own; Christ did not seek His own, but laid down His life for His people.
This final note of the land division closes with Joshua honored by God and men—but honored most for his humility.
