“Ummah also, and Aphek, and Rehob: twenty and two cities with their villages.”
Context: The book of Joshua describes the division of the land of Canaan among the twelve tribes of Israel after they had crossed the Jordan River and entered the Promised Land. Joshua 19 provides details of the territory allotted to the tribe of Naphtali.
The tribe of Naphtali: Naphtali was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, and its territory was located in the northern part of the Promised Land. The cities mentioned in Joshua 19:30 are part of Naphtali’s inheritance.
Ummah: Ummah was one of the cities allotted to the tribe of Naphtali. However, the exact location of Ummah is uncertain, as its identification has been lost over time.
Aphek: Aphek is another city mentioned in Joshua 19:30. There were several cities named Aphek in the region, and the specific one referred to here is likely in the territory of Naphtali. This city is also mentioned in other parts of the Bible, including as the site of a significant battle between the Israelites and the Philistines (1 Samuel 4:1).
Rehob: Rehob was a third city allotted to the tribe of Naphtali. It is believed to be the same as the Rehob mentioned in Judges 1:31. Rehob is situated near the northern border of Israel and is mentioned as a point of reference in describing the land’s extent.
Significance: The listing of these cities serves to provide a detailed account of the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. It demonstrates the fulfillment of God’s promise to give each tribe its own portion of the land.
Lessons for us: Although Joshua 19:30 may seem like a simple list of names and locations, it reminds us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. The division of the land among the tribes reflects God’s commitment to His people and their inheritance. It encourages us to trust in God’s promises and rely on His faithfulness in our lives.
Application: As believers, we have been promised an eternal inheritance through faith in Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:3-4). Just as the land was divided among the tribes, God has prepared a place for us in His kingdom. We can find assurance and hope in knowing that God keeps His promises and faithfully provides for His people.
In conclusion, Joshua 19:30 highlights the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, specifically mentioning the cities of Ummah, Aphek, and Rehob in the territory of Naphtali. While the specific locations of these cities may be uncertain today, the passage reminds us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and the assurance we have in our eternal inheritance in Christ.
