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Joshua 23:4

Behold, I have divided unto you by lot these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even unto the great sea westward.

Joshua 23:4 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Bible signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites, in which He divided the conquered nations as an inheritance among the twelve tribes of Israel. The process of dividing the land by lot was seen as God's way of ensuring fairness and impartiality in the distribution. The territories allocated stretched from the Jordan River to the Great Sea, encompassing all the nations that had been defeated in battle. This act of divine allocation was a demonstration of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His covenant with the Israelites, as He had promised them a land flowing with milk and honey. The verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and his commitment to providing for His chosen people. It also highlights the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan, as He directed the Israelites to possess the land He had set aside for them.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse from the book of Joshua highlights the theme of divine guidance and provision for the Israelites as they enter Canaan. The act of dividing the nations by lot was not a random selection process, but a demonstration of God's sovereignty over the land and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises to the descendants of Abraham. The inheritance allocated to each tribe was not only a physical possession but a spiritual reminder of God's covenant with His people. This act also symbolizes the fulfillment of God's plan to clear the land of its inhabitants and establish His chosen people in their rightful place. The word "inheritance" carries significant theological weight, illustrating the idea of God's people taking possession of the land as a gift from Him, in accordance with His will and purpose for their lives. Overall, this verse underscores the importance of trusting in God's guidance and providence, as He leads His people into the fulfillment of His promises.

Joshua 23:4 in other translations

American Standard Version

Behold, I have allotted unto you these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from the Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun.

World English Bible

Behold, I have allotted to you these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from the Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even to the great sea toward the going down of the sun.

Douay-Rheims

And now since he hath divided to you by lot all the land, from the east of the Jordan unto the great sea, ant many nations yet remain:

Geneva Bible (1599)

Beholde, I haue deuided vnto you by lot these nations that remaine, to be an inheritance according to your tribes, from Iorden, with all the nations that I haue destroyed, euen vnto the great Sea Westward.