“And out of the tribe of Reuben, Bezer with her suburbs, and Jahaz with her suburbs,”– Joshua 21:36 (KJV)
“From the tribe of Reuben, Bezer and its pasturelands, Jahaz and its pasturelands,”– Joshua 21:36 (NLT)
“From the tribe of Reuben, they received: Bezer and its suburbs, Jahaz and its suburbs.”– Joshua 21:36 (MSG)
What Does Joshua 21:36 Mean?
Understanding Joshua 21:36 requires context and appreciation of the histories of the tribes of Israel. In this passage, we learn about the land allocation after the Israelites entered Canaan. The verse specifically states the cities given to the tribe of Reuben. Bezer and Jahaz are named as cities that were designated for them. This verse shines light on the theme of community and belonging, as God made specific promises to the tribes of Israel concerning their land.
God’s promise was not just about giving land but was also symbolic of His faithfulness to His people. The choice of cities was significant, as each location would not only serve practical implications for shelter and sustenance but would also foster spiritual growth and connection to God.
Joshua 21:36 Explanation and Commentary
When we read Joshua 21:36, it’s essential to understand its setting in the larger narrative of Israel’s conquest and settlement of Canaan. This part of Scripture occurs towards the end of Israel’s 40-year journey in the wilderness. God, through Moses and Joshua, effectively transitioned the Israelites from a wandering people to a settled nation.
In the verse, the mention of Bezer and Jahaz highlights the importance of specific locations within the context of the tribe of Reuben. Bezer, a significant city, served practical purposes as a refuge city. According to Numbers 35:9-15, cities of refuge were designated spaces where individuals could seek protection if they had unintentionally harmed another person. This importance of safety and refuge speaks to God’s merciful and just nature.
Jahaz, on the other hand, showcases the tribe’s agricultural potentials due to the surrounding land. Since Reuben was primarily a pastoral tribe, the land granted was filled with opportunities for raising livestock and cultivating crops. The pastoral nature is seen in numbers as God specifically outlined the inheritance for each tribe based on their assignments and roles within the community.
In broader terms, this allocation emphasizes how God’s plans are unique for different people. Just as He designated a specific land for Reuben, we each have our unique paths. God’s promises do not look the same for everyone, but they are always good, reflecting His love and provision for all of us.
Context of Joshua 21:36
In the surrounding passages, we see detailed accounts of land divisions among the twelve tribes. Joshua 21 focuses particularly on the cities given to the priestly family of Levi, amid other communities. This chapter showcases God’s fulfillment of His promises made earlier in the Torah concerning land distributions to the Israelites, emphasizing God’s faithfulness to His covenant. Contextually, these distributions, including the verses leading up to and following Joshua 21:36, are part of God’s grand narrative of establishing a nation among His chosen people.
The verses prior illustrate the systematic division of lands among the other tribes, and the aspect of allocating cities of refuge indicates God’s care for justice among His people as well. By highlighting Bezer and Jahaz, we witness God’s tracked provision and care across generations, affirming that He fulfills His promises, just as He did for the Israelites.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Joshua 21:36
Each component of the verse can offer us valuable insights. Bezer is referred to not just as a city; it carries historical significance and connection to the Levitical cities. This relates to Levitical teachings concerning the law and refuge. The mention of Jahaz emphasizes the importance of cultivating land, symbolizing the responsibilities of stewardship that God entrusts to us. It’s not just about having land, but how we cultivate and utilize the gifts from God that truly matters.
In essence, the cities provide environments for the Reubenites to thrive—spiritually, physically, and emotionally. Bezer demonstrates the aspect of sanctuary and protection, which echoes throughout the biblical narrative, where God is a refuge for us in times of trouble. Jahaz, with its agricultural potential, calls us to recognize the beauty of God’s provision and the opportunities He places before us.
Lessons to Learn From Joshua 21:36
Every detail in Scripture has a purpose, and from Joshua 21:36, we can learn numerous lessons. The first is the idea of God’s faithfulness. He made specific promises to the Israelites, and as we see in this account, He fulfilled them. This encourages us to trust God wholeheartedly. Even when we can’t see how things will work out in our lives, we can be confident that He is working on our behalf.
Another lesson revolves around community. The tribe of Reuben was given cities, highlighting the importance of having a place to call home. God desires us to have a sense of belonging in our communities, allowing us to find support and solace amongst fellow believers.
We also see a call to stewardship in our lives, encouraging us to cherish what God has given us. Whether it be our resources, relationships, or gifts, we are called to tend to them with care. Like the tribe of Reuben, we should consider how we can contribute to the health and growth of our communities, ensuring we reflect God’s love positively.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on Joshua 21:36 and its significance, let’s remember the important lessons of God’s faithfulness, the beauty of community, and the responsibility we hold as stewards of what He has entrusted to us. We can find strength in knowing that just as God provided land to Israel, He is actively involved in our lives, offering us guidance and refuge in our times of need. Let us continually seek to embrace His promises and live out our lives in ways that honor Him.
If you’re looking to explore more about the Bible, consider reading about the allocation in Joshua 10 or delve into the significance of cities of refuge in Acts 14:20. May God bless your exploration and study!