Joshua 15:22 (KJV)

What does Joshua 15:22 mean?

Joshua 15:22 lists three towns—Kinah, Dimonah, and Adadah—as part of the territory assigned to the tribe of Judah. This verse is part of a larger section that records the specific towns and regions given to Judah after the Israelites entered the land of Canaan.

In the context of the book of Joshua, Joshua is leading the Israelites as they divide the promised land among the twelve tribes. This verse is one line in a detailed list, showing the careful record-keeping and the importance of each location. The mention of these towns highlights how every area, even those less well-known today, was considered significant in the distribution of the land.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 15:22

• כִּינָה (Kinah, transliterated "Kinah") refers to a specific town within Judah’s territory. Its exact location is uncertain today, but its inclusion shows the thoroughness of the land division.
• דִּימוֹנָה (Dimonah, transliterated "Dimonah") is another town listed. The name may relate to the Hebrew root for “blood” or “red,” possibly hinting at the color of the soil or a historical event, but the text does not elaborate.
• עֲדָדָה (Adadah, transliterated "Adadah") is the third town named here. Its meaning is unclear, but its listing confirms its recognized place in Judah’s inheritance.

Why Joshua 15:22 matters

• Joshua 15:22 helps readers see the detailed and organized way the land was divided among the tribes, emphasizing fairness and thoroughness.
• The verse reminds us that even small or obscure places were valued and recorded, showing the inclusiveness of the biblical record.
• This listing connects to the larger passage, which establishes Judah’s boundaries and sets the stage for the tribe’s future role in Israel’s history.