Genesis 10:19
And the border of the Canaanites was from Sidon, as thou comest to Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest, unto Sodom, and Gomorrah, and Admah, and Zeboim, even unto Lasha.
Genesis 10:19 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from Genesis 10:19 describes the southern boundary of the Canaanite territory, providing geographical markers to delineate the extent of their land. The mention of cities such as Sidon, Gaza, Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, Zeboim, and Lasha gives a clear picture of the region covered by the Canaanites. Scholars believe that this verse highlights the vast expanse of the land controlled by the Canaanites during that time. It not only serves as a historical record but also underscores the significance of these cities in relation to the Canaanite civilization. Additionally, the reference to cities like Sodom and Gomorrah, known for their sinful behavior and subsequent destruction, adds a moral and cautionary dimension to the verse. Overall, this verse provides valuable insights into the geographical and cultural landscape of ancient Canaan.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the boundaries of the Canaanites are described as stretching from Sidon all the way to Lasha, encompassing several well-known cities like Gerar, Gaza, Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboim. The mention of these cities brings to mind the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, which is a well-known account in the Bible found in Genesis. The inclusion of these cities in the description of the Canaanite territory serves as a reminder of God's judgment upon those who are wicked and disobedient. It also highlights the significance of boundaries and territories in biblical times, as they were not just physical markers but also had spiritual implications. Through this detailed description of the Canaanite borders, one can see the divine sovereignty over the land and the consequences of rebellion against God's law.
Genesis 10:19 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the border of the Canaanite was from Sidon, as thou goest toward Gerar, unto Gaza; as thou goest toward Sodom and Gomorrah and Admah and Zeboiim, unto Lasha.
World English Bible
The border of the Canaanites was from Sidon—as you go toward Gerar—to Gaza—as you go toward Sodom, Gomorrah, Admah, and Zeboiim—to Lasha.
Douay-Rheims
And the limits of Chanaan were from Sidon as one comes to Gerara even to Gaza, until thou enter Sodom and Gomorrha, and Adama, and Seboim even to Lesa.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the border of the Canaanites was from Zidon, as thou commest to Gerar vntil Azzah, and as thou goest vnto Sodom, and Gomorah, and Admah, and Zeboijm, euen vnto Lasha.