Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

Joshua 18:16

And the border came down to the end of the mountain that lieth before the valley of the son of Hinnom, and which is in the valley of the giants on the north, and descended to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of Jebusi on the south, and descended to Enrogel,

Joshua 18:16 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse describes the borders of the tribe of Benjamin as outlined in the book of Joshua. It details the southern boundary of the tribe, starting from the mountain that overlooks the valley of Hinnom, then moving northwards to the valley of the giants, and further descending to the valley of Hinnom. The border then extends to the south of Jebusi and continues down to Enrogel. Enrogel is a well-known water source located just outside the ancient city of Jerusalem, and it played a significant role in the city's water supply system. The mention of these specific locations helps provide a clearer picture of the territorial boundaries of the tribe of Benjamin in ancient Israel. This verse not only serves a geographical purpose but also serves as a historical reference point for understanding the ancient tribal divisions in the land of Israel.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it demonstrates the detailed and deliberate nature of God's guidance and provision for His people. The borders described here were not arbitrary or accidental but were carefully planned and executed by God to establish and protect the inheritance of the Israelites in the Promised Land. The mention of specific geographical locations such as the valley of the son of Hinnom and the valley of the giants serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all aspects of creation, including the land itself. Additionally, the mention of Enrogel, a well-known water source, highlights the importance of water in sustaining life and the significance of God's provision for His people's needs. Through this verse, readers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty and provision, knowing that He is faithful to guide and protect His people in all circumstances.

Joshua 18:16 in other translations

American Standard Version

and the border went down to the uttermost part of the mountain that lieth before the valley of the son of Hinnom, which is in the vale of Rephaim northward; and it went down to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of the Jebusite southward, and went down to En-rogel;

World English Bible

The border went down to the farthest part of the mountain that lies before the valley of the son of Hinnom, which is in the valley of Rephaim northward. It went down to the valley of Hinnom, to the side of the Jebusite southward, and went down to En Rogel.

Douay-Rheims

And it goeth down to that part of the mountain that looketh on the valley of the children of Ennom: and is over against the north quarter in the furthermost part of the valley of Raphaim, and it goeth down into Geennom (that is the valley of Ennom) by the side of the Jebusite to the south: and cometh to the fountain of Rogel,

Geneva Bible (1599)

And this border descendeth at the ende of the mountaine, that lyeth before the valley of Ben-hinnom, which is in the valley of the gyants Northward, and descendeth into the valley of Hinnom by the side of Iebusi Southwarde, and goeth downe to En-rogel,