And the name of Hebron before was Kirjatharba; which Arba was a great man among the Anakims. And the land had rest from war.

JOSHUA 14:15KJV
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Joshua 14:15 (KJV)

What does Joshua 14:15 mean?

Joshua 14:15 explains that the city now called Hebron was previously known as Kirjatharba, named after Arba, who was a prominent figure among the Anakims. The verse ends by noting that the land experienced peace from war at this point.

This verse comes as part of the account of Caleb receiving Hebron as his inheritance after the Israelites entered Canaan. The mention of Arba and the Anakims highlights the former reputation of the city as a stronghold of giants, making Caleb’s possession of it significant. The statement that the land had rest from war signals a turning point, showing that the period of conquest was ending and a time of peace was beginning.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 14:15

  • Hebron (חֶבְרוֹן, ḥevron): This is the name of the city Caleb receives; it means "association" or "alliance," which may hint at its historical or social significance.
  • Kirjatharba (קִרְיַת אַרְבַּע, qiryat arba): This earlier name means "city of Arba," with Arba described as a "great man" among the Anakims, emphasizing the city's former association with a powerful figure.
  • Anakims (עֲנָקִים, ʿanaqim): This term refers to a group of people known for their great size and strength, often described as giants in the Old Testament, which underlines the challenge Caleb overcame.
  • Rest (שָׁקַט, shaqat): The word used for "rest" here carries the sense of quietness or tranquility after conflict, marking a significant shift from warfare to peace.

Why Joshua 14:15 matters

  • Joshua 14:15 clarifies the historical background of Hebron, connecting it to its earlier Canaanite identity and the legendary figure Arba, which helps readers understand why the city was so significant.
  • The verse highlights the defeat of the Anakims and the transition from conflict to peace, underscoring the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel and the faithfulness of Caleb.
  • By noting that the land had rest from war, the verse signals a major shift in the narrative from conquest to settlement, setting the stage for the next phase of Israel’s history in the land.