Joshua 18:28 (KJV)

What does Joshua 18:28 mean?

Joshua 18:28 lists several towns—Zelah, Eleph, Jebusi (which is Jerusalem), Gibeath, and Kirjath—along with their surrounding villages, and states that these fourteen cities made up the inheritance given to the tribe of Benjamin according to their family groups. This verse marks the conclusion of the description of Benjamin’s allotted territory among the tribes of Israel.

Joshua is narrating the division of the land of Canaan among the Israelite tribes after their conquest. Here, the focus is on the tribe of Benjamin, specifying the cities and villages that formed their share. The mention of Jebusi, identified as Jerusalem, is significant because Jerusalem would later become a central city in Israel’s history.

Why Joshua 18:28 matters

• Joshua 18:28 clarifies that Jerusalem, called Jebusi at this time, was originally part of Benjamin’s territory, which helps explain later historical events involving this city.
• The verse emphasizes the careful and organized way the land was divided among the tribes, showing the importance of family and tribal identity in ancient Israel.
• This verse connects to the larger passage by wrapping up the detailed list of Benjamin’s cities, highlighting the completeness and fairness of the land distribution process.