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Joshua 18

28 verses

TL;DR

Joshua orders the remaining tribes to survey the land, casts lots to allocate territories, and details the inheritance of Benjamin.

Summary

After the conquest, Joshua gathers the Israelites at Shiloh and reminds them that the land is still to be claimed. He appoints three men from each tribe to survey the terrain and report back. The surveyors map the land by city and return for a lot‑casting ceremony. The lots are drawn before the Lord, and Joshua divides the land among the tribes according to their allotted portions. The allotment for the tribe of Benjamin is described in great detail, including borders, cities, and villages. The passage emphasizes divine authority, orderly division of inheritance, and the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Outline
  1. Joshua commissions surveyors and orders the division of the remaining land
  2. Surveyors map and report the territories
  3. Lots are cast and the inheritance of Benjamin is detailed
Themes
inheritance of the Promised Landdivine authority and obedienceorderly distribution of territory
Keywords
landinheritancelotsurveybordercitiestribesIsraelGodShiloh
People
Joshuathe children of IsraelLevitesGadReubenManassehBenjaminJudahHouse of Joseph
Places
ShilohBethavenLuz (Bethel)AtarothadarBethhoronKirjathbaal (Kirjathjearim)JordanJerichoBethelJebusi (Jerusalem)GibeonRamahBeerothMizpehChephirahMozahRekemIrpeelTaralahZelahElephKirjath
Things
tabernaclelotinheritancebordercitiesvillages
Key Verses
  • Joshua 18:3: Joshua’s admonition to act swiftly in claiming the land
  • Joshua 18:10: The casting of lots as a divinely guided method of allocation
  • Joshua 18:21-28: Detailed description of Benjamin’s allotment, illustrating the practical application of the distribution process
Questions
  • Why did Joshua choose to use lots rather than a direct allocation?
  • How does the division of land reflect the covenant between God and Israel?
  • What significance does the detailed listing of Benjamin’s cities hold for the tribe’s identity?
  • In what ways does the passage illustrate obedience and divine approval?
  • How might the allocation process have affected tribal relationships?
  • What role does the Levite’s exemption play in the overall division?
  • Why is the emphasis on borders and precise geography important?
  • What does this chapter reveal about Israel’s transition from conquest to settlement?
Sentiment

neutral
Descriptive account of land division without overt emotional language