Joshua 19:34
And then the coast turneth westward to Aznothtabor, and goeth out from thence to Hukkok, and reacheth to Zebulun on the south side, and reacheth to Asher on the west side, and to Judah upon Jordan toward the sunrising.
Joshua 19:34 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse describes the boundaries of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel. The coast turns westward to Aznothtabor, which is believed to be a location in the northern part of Israel near the Sea of Galilee. It then goes on to Hukkok, Zebulun, Asher, and Judah, indicating the various territories each tribe would possess. Zebulun and Asher were both located in the northern part of Israel, while Judah was situated further south along the Jordan River. This verse highlights how precise and detailed the division of land was among the twelve tribes of Israel, as instructed by God. By understanding these geographical boundaries, we gain insight into the distribution and inheritance of the Promised Land to the Israelites, as recorded in the Bible.
Theological Overview
Looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we see that it describes the boundaries of the land allotted to the tribes of Israel. It signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites, giving each tribe a specific portion of the land. The mentioning of Aznothtabor, Hukkok, Zebulun, Asher, and Judah highlights the precision and detail with which God allocated the land to His people. The verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and his attention to detail in providing for His people.
Additionally, when considering the word studies of the names mentioned in the verse, we find deeper meanings that shed light on the significance of the boundaries. For instance, Aznothtabor possibly means 'ears of Tabor,' signifying a place that catches the whispers of God. Hukkok could be related to 'engraved' or 'inscribed,' suggesting a lasting mark or boundary. Zebulun means 'habitation' or 'dwelling,' indicating a settled or established region. Asher signifies 'happy' or 'blessed,' hinting at a prosperous area. Lastly, Judah means 'praise' or 'confession,' pointing to a place of worship and acknowledgment of God's provision.
Joshua 19:34 in other translations
American Standard Version
and the border turned westward to Aznoth-tabor, and went out from thence to Hukkok; and it reached to Zebulun on the south, and reached to Asher on the west, and to Judah at the Jordan toward the sunrising.
World English Bible
The border turned westward to Aznoth Tabor, and went out from there to Hukkok. It reached to Zebulun on the south, and reached to Asher on the west, and to Judah at the Jordan toward the sunrise.
Douay-Rheims
And the border returneth westward to Azanotthabor, and goeth out from thence to Hucuca, and passeth along to Zabulon southward, and to Aser westward, and to Juda upon the Jordan towards the rising of the sun.
Geneva Bible (1599)
So this coast turneth Westwarde to Aznoth-tabor, and goeth out from thence to Hukkok, and reacheth to Zebulun on the Southside, and goeth to Asher on the Westside, and to Iudah by Iorden toward the sunne rising.