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Joshua 18:4

Give out from among you three men for each tribe: and I will send them, and they shall rise, and go through the land, and describe it according to the inheritance of them; and they shall come again to me.

Joshua 18:4 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, God commands the Israelites to choose three men from each tribe to explore and describe the land that he has promised to give them as an inheritance. These men were to be sent out to survey the land and report back on its condition, resources, and inhabitants. This task was crucial in order to plan the distribution of the land among the tribes according to their inheritance. By appointing representatives from each tribe, God ensured fairness and accuracy in the assessment of the land. This command highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling his promise to the Israelites and also emphasizes the importance of proper planning and organization in the distribution of blessings. The verse also illustrates the concept of teamwork and cooperation among the tribes of Israel, as they worked together to fulfill God's instructions. Ultimately, this verse serves as a practical and strategic step in the implementation of God's plan for his people.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Joshua can be seen as a demonstration of God's faithfulness and provision for his people. By instructing the Israelites to send out three men from each tribe to survey the land, God is showing his commitment to fulfilling his promise of giving them the land of Canaan as their inheritance. This act of scouting the land would not only provide valuable information for the Israelites about the territory, but also symbolize God's guidance and involvement in their journey towards claiming their rightful possession. Additionally, the act of sending out representatives from each tribe highlights the unity and cooperation necessary for the Israelites to work together in achieving their common goal. Through this task, God is emphasizing the importance of obedience, trust, and diligence in following his commands and walking in his ways.

Joshua 18:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

Appoint for you three men of each tribe: and I will send them, and they shall arise, and walk through the land, and describe it according to their inheritance; and they shall come unto me.

World English Bible

Appoint for yourselves three men from each tribe. I will send them, and they shall arise, walk through the land, and describe it according to their inheritance; and they shall come to me.

Douay-Rheims

Choose of every tribe three men, that I may send them, and they may go and compass the land, and mark it out according to the number of each multitude: and bring back to me what they have marked out.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Giue from among you for euery tribe three men, that I may sende them, and that they may rise, and walke through the land, and distribute it according to their inheritance, and returne to me.