Definition: Aijalon with her suburbs, Gathrimmon with her suburbs; four cities.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 21:24. It’s a really significant and somewhat dramatic passage about the aftermath of a battle! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: After the battle with the Amalekites, God decided to divide the land into four cities – Aijalon, Gathrimmon, and Shechem. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Joshua 21:24 Aijalon with her suburbs, Gathrimmon with her suburbs; four cities.” This is a very clear list. It's saying that after the battle, God decided to divide the land into four distinct areas – these are the names of the cities. “Aijalon with her suburbs, Gathrimmon with her suburbs”: This refers to two cities named Aijalon and Gathrimmon. These were important cities in the region, known for their settlements and perhaps even a significant connection to the Amalekites. “Four Cities.” This is the crucial part. The verse emphasizes that God specifically chose four cities – Aijalon, Gathrimmon, Shechem, and possibly others – as the result of this division. What does it mean in a broader sense? This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of God’s judgment and restoration after a period of conflict. Here's what it can suggest: Justice and Restitution: It speaks to God’s right to restore what has been taken away or damaged. The division reflects a process of re-establishing order and justice in a disrupted land. God's Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control and doesn’t simply allow things to happen randomly. He chooses how to distribute his blessings and punish those who transgress. Important Context (Briefly): Joshua 21 is part of the story of the conquest of Canaan. The Amalekites were a powerful group, and the battle was a crucial step in establishing Israel's dominion over the land. This verse highlights God’s power to divide and control, and ultimately, to restore and establish His chosen people. In short, this verse tells us that God decided to divide the land into four cities after the battle with the Amalekites, signifying a period of judgment, restoration, and divine order. --- Would you like me to: Explain any part of it in more detail? Provide a deeper historical context?