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Joshua 19:49–51
“When they had made an end of dividing the land as an inheritance according to their borders, the children of Israel gave an inheritance among them to Joshua the son of Nun” (Josh. 19:49).
The story of the division of Canaan draws to a close with the fitting assignment of land for Joshua himself. This section of the book began with the ceding of a tract for Caleb, who, along with Joshua, is the oldest survivor of those Israelites who came out of Egypt. They have been preserved through the wilderness wandering and the conquest because they trusted God and dissented from the majority opinion of the spies who recommended that Israel not invade Canaan. The accounts of their inheritances seem to serve as “bookends” of faith around the whole apportionment narrative, the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham.
Joshua asks for Timnath Serah, a city in the mountains of Ephraim, his own tribe. Though he could legitimately claim any corner of Canaan as his own, Joshua makes a request rather than a demand. It is also said that this city is given to him by the Israelites, probably in the sense that they raise no objection and that others who might want the site simply drop any claims out of deference to their leader. But the author of the book also says that the city is given to Joshua “according to the word of the LORD.” Matthew Henry speculates that God by Moses may have promised Timnath to Joshua, just as He promised Hebron to Caleb (Josh. 14:9).
Just as Caleb set an example for all Israel by requesting an area where enemies still dwelt, Joshua selects a city that needs work. We are told that after he is given Timnath, “he built the city and dwelt in it.” He does not choose a city that has escaped the ravages of the wars of conquest. Like Caleb, who at 85 still wanted to do great things for God, Joshua has no thoughts of retirement. “While others dwelt in houses which they built not, Joshua must erect for himself (that he might be a pattern of industry and contentment with mean things) such buildings as he could hastily run up,” Henry writes in his commentary.
Verse 51 sums up the narrative of the division of Canaan. It reiterates again that the process was carried out in accordance with God’s instructions. It was led by Joshua, the high priest, and the leaders of each tribe, and it was done at the very door of the tabernacle of meeting, under the oversight of the LORD God Himself.
Coram Deo Living before the face of God
Leaders’ actions carry great symbolism. They must consider how their deeds will be interpreted and emulated. It appears Joshua understood this and set out to exemplify a willingness to work at settling the land. Are you such a model? And do you willingly emulate your leaders? Pray for them and choose your own actions prayerfully.
For Further Study
- John 13:15
- Philippians 3:17
- 1 Timothy 4:12
- 1 Peter 5:1–3