👉 From Sihor, which [is] before Egypt, even unto the borders of Ekron northward, [which] is counted to the Canaanite: five lords of the Philistines; the Gazathites, and the Ashdothites, the Eshkalonites, the Gittites, and the Ekronites; also the Avites:
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 13:3. It’s a really interesting and somewhat complex passage about the Israelites' borders and their relationship with the Philistines. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying that the Israelites were extending their borders significantly northward, almost to the point of bordering Canaan. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “From Sihor, which [is] before Egypt…” : “Sihor” is a place mentioned in ancient texts. It's essentially a border marker, suggesting they were establishing a boundary line near the Nile River. It’s located "before Egypt" – meaning very close to the edge of the Egyptian territory. “…even unto the borders of Ekron northward…” : “Ekron” is a city in the region of Canaan. This part confirms that the Israelites were pushing their boundaries northward . “[which] is counted to the Canaanite:” This is where it gets tricky. "The Canaanite" refers to the ancient inhabitants of the Levant – primarily the Philistines. The verse states that this group of people was counted to the Canaanites. “Five lords of the Philistines; the Gazathites, and the Ashdothites, the Eshkalonites, the Gittites, and the Ekronites…” : This list describes a specific group of Philistine warriors – five distinct groups who were considered important. These names are somewhat obscure, but they’re essentially: Gazathites: A tribe known for their skills in warfare and leadership. Ashdothites: Another tribe with a reputation for being skilled fighters. Eshkalonites: Likely a tribe with a specific cultural or religious significance. Gittites: Possibly related to the Gittite people, who were known for their skills in crafting and metalworking. Ekronites: The group that was included as a "lord" – meaning they held significant power and influence. “…also the Avites:” “Avites” is a term used to describe a specific type of Philistine warrior, known for their ability to fight in a variety of combat situations. Overall Meaning: The verse describes the Israelites establishing a very large and expansive territory extending northwards, bordering Canaan. They were essentially creating a significant area that included several distinct groups of warriors – the five lords of the Philistines – alongside other tribes and warriors. It’s a statement about their military power and territorial expansion. Why is this important? This passage highlights a crucial point in the story of the Israelites' early history: they were actively expanding into Canaan, demonstrating their growing strength and ambition. It sets the stage for the later events described in Joshua 14-23, which detail the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these terms in more detail? Provide a historical context for this verse? Discuss what this passage might suggest about the Israelites' strategy or intentions?