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Judges 1:14

And it came to pass, when she came to him, that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted from off her ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wilt thou?

Judges 1:14 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse from the book of Judges, we see a significant moment where a woman named Achsah approaches her father, Caleb, with a request. She requests a field as an inheritance from her father. The verse illustrates Achsah's initiative and determination as she approaches her father to make her request known. She dismounts from her donkey, symbolizing humility and respect towards her father. Caleb, in response, asks her, "What wilt thou?" This question shows Caleb's willingness to listen to his daughter's request and consider granting it. It also reveals a dynamic between father and daughter where Achsah felt comfortable enough to approach her father directly and make her desires known. This verse showcases the importance of communication and openness within family relationships, as well as the value of advocating for oneself. Through Achsah's actions, we see the importance of perseverance and courage in seeking our aspirations and goals.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see a fascinating interaction between a woman (Achsah) and her father (Caleb). Achsah approaches Caleb and asks him for a specific gift - a field. This request is significant because it not only shows Achsah's courage and boldness in asking for what she wants, but it also demonstrates her knowledge of the importance of land ownership in biblical times. The act of Achsah lighting from off her ass before speaking to her father could symbolize her reverence and respect for him, as well as her understanding of the seriousness of the request she was about to make. Caleb's response to Achsah's request - "What wilt thou?" - shows his willingness to listen to her and consider her desires. This interaction can be seen as a lesson in communication, respect, and the importance of seeking what we want in life. It also highlights the value of land ownership and the significance of familial relationships in biblical times.

Judges 1:14 in other translations

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, when she came [unto him], that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she alighted from off her ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou?

World English Bible

When she came, she got him to ask her father for a field. She dismounted from off of her donkey; and Caleb said to her, “What would you like?”

Douay-Rheims

And as she was going on her way, her husband admonished her to ask a field of her father. And as she sighed sitting on her ass, Caleb said to her: What aileth thee?

Geneva Bible (1599)

And when shee came to him, shee mooued him to aske of her father a field, and shee lighted off her asse, and Caleb saide vnto her, What wilt thou?