Question 1

What does Joshua 15:24 mean?

Accepted Answer

Joshua 15:24 lists the towns of Ziph, Telem, and Bealoth as part of the territory assigned to the tribe of Judah. This verse is part of a detailed record of the boundaries and cities given to Judah after the Israelites entered the Promised Land. In the context of Joshua, these place names are part of a longer list describing the inheritance of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The passage is not telling a story but documenting which specific locations were included in Judah’s allotted land, reflecting the importance of land division and tribal identity in ancient Israel.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Joshua 15:24

Accepted Answer

Ziph (זִיף, Ziph): This name refers to a town in the southern part of Judah’s territory. Ziph is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible as a wilderness area where David hid from Saul, showing its continued relevance in Israel’s history. Telem (טֶלֶם, Telem): Telem is another town in Judah’s southern region. The name may mean “furrow” or “ridge,” suggesting something about the landscape or agricultural use of the area. Bealoth (בְּעָלוֹת, Bealoth): Bealoth’s name is related to the word for “lords” or “owners,” possibly indicating a place associated with multiple settlements or significant leaders.

Question 3

Why Joshua 15:24 matters

Accepted Answer

Joshua 15:24 helps clarify the historical and geographical setting of the tribe of Judah, grounding later biblical events in specific locations. The verse emphasizes the thoroughness with which the land was divided, showing the importance of each tribe’s inheritance in Israel’s identity and organization. By naming these towns, the verse connects to other biblical stories and genealogies, helping readers trace the movement and settlement of Israel’s people.

Joshua 15:24 (KJV)