Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir),
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse is easily overlooked as just another place name, but the fact that Debir is given multiple names—Kirjath-sannah, and elsewhere Kirjath-sepher—highlights its significant role as a renowned center of learning and wisdom, often translated as "city of letters" or "city of the law." It wasn't just a city; it was a place where understanding and knowledge were deeply valued, reflecting a culture that revered wisdom.
Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir),
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse is part of a lengthy list detailing the cities and territories allocated to the tribe of Judah after the conquest of Canaan. It appears in the section describing cities in the hill country, following accounts of Caleb's conquest and the giving of his daughter Achsah in marriage. These geographical descriptions serve to define the boundaries and inheritance of each tribe, solidifying their place in the promised land.
Why would a single city need three different names? The Scripture gives us clues about its significance.
The city of Debir appears in Scripture with several names:
These multiple designations highlight that Debir was not just a physical location, but a significant hub for religious and intellectual life in ancient Israel, likely where important laws were studied and divine counsel was sought.
The taking of Debir was a pivotal moment, leading to a significant reward and a remarkable display of courage from a woman named Achsah.
The conquest of Debir was a major achievement for Caleb and the tribe of Judah. It's recorded that Caleb offered his daughter Achsah in marriage to whoever could conquer the city (Joshua 15:16-17). Her future husband, Othniel, succeeded in this daring feat.
But the story doesn't end there! When Achsah received her inheritance – a dry, southern land – she boldly asked her father for springs of water as well. Her request wasn't just a plea; it was a demand rooted in faith and the understanding of her rights as an heiress, even though women were typically excluded from hereditary land possession. Caleb, impressed by her assertiveness and perhaps recognizing the strategic importance of water sources, granted her request, giving her 'the upper and nether springs.'
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This event showcases a woman’s courage and strategic thinking in claiming her inheritance and resources, a testament to the active roles women could play.
The mention of Dannah and Kiriath-sannah (Debir) places this verse within the context of the immediate aftermath of the conquest, as the land is being allocated to the tribes of Israel. Debir's significance as a place of learning (Kiriath-sepher meaning 'City of Books') is highlighted by its inclusion in this list of tribal inheritances.
c. 1400 BC
Israelites Enter the Promised Land
Following 40 years of wandering in the desert, Joshua leads the Israelites across the Jordan River to begin the conquest of Canaan.
c. 1390 BC
Conquest of Canaan
Under Joshua's leadership, the Israelites wage war against various Canaanite city-states to claim the land promised to them by God.
c. 1390 BC
Caleb's Request for Hebron
Caleb, a faithful spy from the Exodus generation, asks for the mountainous region of Hebron, which was inhabited by the giants, the descendants of Anak.
c. 1390 BC— this verse
Othniel Captures Debir
Caleb's nephew, Othniel, bravely captures the city of Debir (also known as Kiriath-sepher or Kiriath-sannah) and is rewarded with Caleb's daughter, Achsah, in marriage.
c. 1390 BC
Division of the Land
After the conquest, the land of Canaan is systematically divided by lot among the twelve tribes of Israel, with detailed boundaries and cities assigned.
This passage directly parallels the story of Othniel conquering Debir (Kirjath-sepher) as a reward for his bravery, mirroring the context around Debir's naming.
Joshua 15:15This verse also mentions Debir, but calls it Kirjath-sepher, highlighting the city's multiple names and historical significance as a place of learning.
1 Kings 4:29This verse speaks of Solomon's great wisdom, mentioning that his understanding 'exceeded the understanding of all the people of the East and all the wisdom of Egypt,' connecting to Debir's potential reputation as a 'city of learning'.
Deuteronomy 7:1-2This passage emphasizes God's command to drive out the inhabitants of the land, which is relevant to the conquest of cities like Debir and the settlement of the Israelites.
calvinJoshua 15:14-63: "And Caleb drove thence the three sons of Anak, Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak."
- And it came to pass as she came unto him, etc Although we may conjecture that the damsel Acsa was of excellent morals and well brought up, as marriage with her had been held forth as the special reward [149] of victory, yet perverse cupidity on her part is here disclosed. She knew that by the divine law women were specially excluded from hereditary lands, but she neverthe…
clarkeJoshua 15:49: "And Dannah, and Kirjathsannah, which is Debir,"
Kirjath-sannah - See the note on Joshua 15:15 .
This verse is easily overlooked as just another place name, but the fact that Debir is given multiple names—Kirjath-sannah, and elsewhere Kirjath-sepher—highlights its significant role as a renowned center of learning and wisdom, often translated as "city of letters" or "city of the law." It wasn't just a city; it was a place where understanding and knowledge were deeply valued, reflecting a culture that revered wisdom.
This verse is part of a lengthy list detailing the cities and territories allocated to the tribe of Judah after the conquest of Canaan. It appears in the section describing cities in the hill country, following accounts of Caleb's conquest and the giving of his daughter Achsah in marriage. These geographical descriptions serve to define the boundaries and inheritance of each tribe, solidifying their place in the promised land.
This verse is part of a lengthy list detailing the cities and territories allocated to the tribe of Judah after the conquest of Canaan. It appears in the section describing cities in the hill country, following accounts of Caleb's conquest and the giving of his daughter Achsah in marriage. These geographical descriptions serve to define the boundaries and inheritance of each tribe, solidifying their place in the promised land.
"Dannah, Kiriath-sannah (that is, Debir)," — This verse is easily overlooked as just another place name, but the fact that Debir is given multiple names—Kirjath-sannah, and elsewhere Kirjath-sepher—highlights its significant role as a renowned…
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Last reviewed October 2026