And the border went vp toward Debir from the valley of Achor, and so Northward, looking toward Gilgal, that is before the going vp to Adummim, which is on the Southside of the riuer: and the border passed towards the waters of Enshemesh, and the goings out thereof were at En-Rogel. Joshua 15:7 (KJV)
In this verse we encounter several geographic locations that define the southern boundary of the tribe of Judah. The border begins at Debir, a city situated in the hill country of Judah, marking the western edge of the allotted land. From there it rises out of the valley of Achor. The valley of Achan is recalled earlier in Joshua as the place where Achan and his family were stoned for disobeying God’s command concerning the destruction of Jericho (Joshua 7:24‑26); it therefore serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of disobedience.
The line then proceeds northward, looking toward Gilgal. Gilgal was the first Israelite camp after crossing the Jordan River and the site where the new generation was circumcised (Joshua 5:2‑10). It also functioned as a strategic base for the military campaigns that followed the conquest of Canaan.
Before reaching the ascent of Adummim, the border is described as being “before the going up to Adummim, which is on the south side of the river.” Adummim was a pass or ascent east of Jericho, identified with the south side of the Wadi Qilt, a valley near Jericho.
Continuing onward, the boundary moves toward the waters of En‑shemesh, with its “goings out” at En‑rogel. Both En‑shemesh and En‑rogel were likely water sources or recognizable landmarks that helped the Israelites delineate their inheritance.
From a spiritual standpoint, the passage records the precise borders of the land allotted to Judah, underscoring the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the Israelites possession of the Promised Land. The meticulous detailing of borders and landmarks demonstrates the accuracy and faithfulness of God in keeping His word, and it reminds the people that obedience and reverence are essential to enjoying the blessings of the land.
