“And Hebron, and Rehob, and Hammon, and Kanah, even unto great Zidon;”
Joshua 19:28 is part of a larger passage that describes the inheritance of the tribe of Asher. In the book of Joshua, the land of Canaan was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel after they had conquered it under Joshua’s leadership.
Context: The verse you mentioned is part of the description of the territory allotted to the tribe of Asher. The verse lists several cities or towns that were included within the boundaries of Asher’s inheritance.
Hebron: Hebron was a significant city in the land of Canaan. It was located in the hill country of Judah and later became an important city in the territory of the tribe of Judah. It was also the place where Abraham lived and where the patriarchs were buried.
Rehob: Rehob is mentioned in this verse as one of the cities within the territory of Asher. The exact location of Rehob is uncertain, but it is generally believed to be situated in the northern part of Canaan.
Hammon: Hammon is another city mentioned here. Its specific location is not definitively known, but it is thought to have been situated in the northern region of Canaan.
Kanah: Kanah is listed as another city within Asher’s territory. Its exact location is unclear, but it is likely to have been in the northern part of Canaan.
Zidon: The verse concludes by mentioning the city of Zidon (also known as Sidon). Zidon was a prominent Phoenician city located on the Mediterranean coast. It was known for its trade and was a center of worship for the god Baal. Zidon was not part of Asher’s inheritance but is mentioned here as the northern boundary of the tribe’s allotted land.
This verse emphasizes the specific cities and regions that were part of the territory assigned to the tribe of Asher. It highlights the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the land of Canaan to the Israelites and shows how the land was divided among the various tribes.
It is important to note that while studying individual verses can provide valuable insights, understanding the broader context of the Bible, including the historical and cultural background, is essential for a comprehensive understanding of its message.
