Joshua 15:18

And it came to passe as shee came vnto him, that she moued him to aske of her father a field, and she lighted off her asse; and Caleb said vnto her, What wouldest thou? Joshua 15:18 (KJV)

The book of Joshua records the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel after they crossed the Jordan River and entered the Promised Land. This particular verse belongs to the account of the land allocation to the tribe of Judah, illustrating how individual families were granted portions within the larger tribal inheritance.

The verse mentions several characters. “She” refers to Achsah, the daughter of Caleb. “Him” refers to Othniel, Achsah’s husband and the nephew of Caleb. Caleb himself is described as a faithful servant of God and one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan.

Achsah approached her husband Othniel and asked him to request a field from her father, Caleb. It is important to note that women in ancient times did not have the same rights and privileges as men, so Achsah’s action of approaching her husband and making this request shows her confidence and assertiveness.

Caleb, upon hearing Achsah’s request, inquires about her intentions, asking, “What wilt thou?” Caleb’s response indicates his curiosity and willingness to understand Achsah’s desire, showing a respectful dialogue between father and daughter.

The passage also holds symbolic significance. Caleb, often associated with faithfulness and courage, serves as a type of God the Father. Achsah, symbolizing believers or the Church, approaches Caleb with her request. This can be seen as an analogy of believers coming to God with their petitions and desires, trusting that the Father will consider and respond to their needs.