Joshua 19:37
And Kedesh, and Edrei, and Enhazor, Joshua 19:37 (KJV)
Joshua 19:37 is a verse found in the Old Testament book of Joshua, which describes the division of the land of Canaan among the twelve tribes of Israel. This verse lists three cities that were assigned to the tribe of Naphtali: Kedesh, Edrei, and Enhazor.
Kedesh was a significant city in ancient Israel, situated in the northern part of the land near the border with Syria. It was designated as one of the six cities of refuge, places where individuals who had unintentionally killed another could find safety until a proper judgment was rendered according to the law given by God. Kedesh is mentioned several times in Scripture, including in Joshua 20:7 and Judges 4:6, and it was the hometown of the judge and prophetess Deborah.
Edrei was another city allotted to Naphtali. Although its exact location is not known with certainty, scholars place it in the northern region of Canaan. Edrei is referenced in Numbers 21:33 and Deuteronomy 1:4 as one of the cities conquered during the Israelite journey through the wilderness.
Enhazor appears only in Joshua 19:37 and is not extensively described elsewhere in the Bible. Its specific location remains uncertain, and information about the city is limited. Some scholars suggest that it may have been situated near Kedesh or Edrei.
These three cities were among the many territories distributed to the tribe of Naphtali during the division of the Promised Land. The allocation took place under the leadership of Joshua, following the conquest of Canaan as commanded by God. By studying this verse we gain insight into the historical and geographical context of Israel’s settlement in Canaan. The passage also reminds us of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and of the careful, orderly manner in which He apportioned the land among the tribes. The designation of Kedesh as a city of refuge underscores the biblical emphasis on justice and the protection of the innocent.
While this brief study offers background information on Joshua 19:37, further exploration of the surrounding verses and the broader narrative of the Book of Joshua will deepen understanding of the passage’s significance.
