Joshua 19:28
Ebron, Rehob, Hammon, Kanah, as far as Sidon the Great.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Joshua 19:28
Ebron, Rehob, Hammon, Kanah, as far as Sidon the Great.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
This verse highlights that the allotted land extends all the way to "great Sidon," a powerful ancient city. This "greatness" points not just to its size, but its immense antiquity, wealth, and influence, serving as a significant marker of the northern boundary of the tribe's inheritance.
This verse continues the detailed listing of territories assigned to the tribes of Israel after their conquest of Canaan. Specifically, it's describing the northern boundary of the tribe of Asher, extending all the way to the major Phoenician city of Sidon. While some of these cities were part of Asher's inheritance, the great city of Sidon itself remained unconquered, serving as a significant, albeit foreign, landmark.
Ever wonder why one city is called 'great' while others are just listed? This wasn't just a nickname; it spoke volumes about Sidon's ancient influence and God's strategic plan.
The mention of "great Sidon" here isn't just about geography; it highlights Sidon's immense historical significance. It was an ancient Phoenician powerhouse, known for its incredible wealth, maritime prowess, and deep roots.
A Strategic Boundary
Benson and Poole point out that Sidon, though mentioned as a boundary, was likely never fully possessed by the Israelites. This might seem strange, but it reflects God's profound wisdom.
Joshua's lists of cities can feel like a dry inventory. But each name represents a place God promised, a tangible part of His faithfulness to His people.
While the exact locations of Rehob, Hammon, and even Hebron (distinct from the more famous one in Judah) are debated today, their inclusion is crucial. They represent the concrete fulfillment of God's promises.
Unfolding Inheritance
Understand the original words
Tsidown · Hebrew Noun
An ancient and powerful Phoenician city-state known for its maritime trade and influence. In the Bible, it is frequently cited as a symbol of worldly wealth, pride, and pagan power.
The mention of Sidon as a border for Asher highlights the strategic importance and formidable nature of Phoenician cities, which often remained distinct cultural and political entities within or alongside Israel.
c. 1400 BC
Joshua leads Israel into Canaan
Following their exodus from Egypt and 40 years in the wilderness, Joshua leads the Israelites in conquering and claiming the Promised Land.
c. 1400-1380 BC
Conquest and Division of Canaan
Joshua oversees the military conquest of Canaan and the subsequent division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel.
c. 1380 BC— this verse
Inheritance for Asher finalized
The tribe of Asher receives its allotted territory, extending to the great Phoenician city of Sidon along the Mediterranean coast.
c. 1380 BC onwards
Sidon remains largely unconquered
Despite being named as a border city for Asher, the powerful city of Sidon and its people are never fully subdued by the Israelites.
This verse describes Zebulun dwelling by the seashore and engaging in trade, which directly relates to the tribe of Asher (where Joshua 19:28 is located) extending to Sidon, a major port city. This highlights the prophetic significance of certain tribes having access to maritime trade.
Judges 1:31This passage details Asher's failure to drive out the inhabitants of certain cities, including Sidon, which aligns with the boundary in Joshua 19:28 reaching Sidon but not fully possessing it. It underscores the ongoing presence of Canaanites even within the allotted territories.
John 2:1The New Testament mentions Cana, which is likely the same place as Kanah in Joshua 19:28, as the site of Jesus' first miracle. This shows how locations assigned to the tribes in the Old Testament continue to be significant in the New Testament era.
1 Kings 5:11This verse speaks of Hiram king of Tyre and Solomon's dealings with the people of Sidon, showing the continued prominence and influence of these Phoenician cities (like Sidon) in later biblical history, even after the Israelite conquest.
clarkeJoshua 19:28: "And Hebron, and Rehob, and Hammon, and Kanah, even unto great Zidon;"
Unto great Zidon - The city of Sidon and the Sidonians are celebrated from the remotest antiquity. They are frequently mentioned by Homer. See the note on Joshua 11:8 .
bensonJoshua 19:28: "And Hebron, and Rehob, and Hammon, and Kanah, even unto great Zidon;"
Joshua 19:28 . Kanah — Namely, Kanah the greater, in the Upper Galilee; not Kanah the less, which was in the Lower Galilee. Zidon — Called great for its antiquity, and riches, and glory. The city either was not given to the Israelites, or at least was never possessed by them; not without a singular providence of God, that they might not by the opportunity of so good a port be engaged in much commerce with other…
This verse highlights that the allotted land extends all the way to "great Sidon," a powerful ancient city. This "greatness" points not just to its size, but its immense antiquity, wealth, and influence, serving as a significant marker of the northern boundary of the tribe's inheritance.
This verse continues the detailed listing of territories assigned to the tribes of Israel after their conquest of Canaan. Specifically, it's describing the northern boundary of the tribe of Asher, extending all the way to the major Phoenician city of Sidon. While some of these cities were part of Asher's inheritance, the great city of Sidon itself remained unconquered, serving as a significant, albeit foreign, landmark.
This verse continues the detailed listing of territories assigned to the tribes of Israel after their conquest of Canaan. Specifically, it's describing the northern boundary of the tribe of Asher, extending all the way to the major Phoenician city of Sidon. While some of these cities were part of Asher's inheritance, the great city of Sidon itself remained unconquered, serving as a significant, albeit foreign, landmark.
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"Ebron, Rehob, Hammon, Kanah, as far as Sidon the Great." — This verse highlights that the allotted land extends all the way to "great Sidon," a powerful ancient city. This "greatness" points not just to its size, but its immense antiquity, wealth, and influe…