“And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The LORD commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle.”
Context: The book of Joshua recounts the events after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River and entered the Promised Land. In this verse, the Israelites are in the land of Canaan, specifically at Shiloh, and they are speaking to the priests and leaders regarding the command of the Lord given through Moses.
God’s Promise: The verse highlights the fulfillment of God’s promise to the Israelites to provide them with cities to dwell in. This promise was made to the Israelites earlier in the wilderness when Moses was their leader. The Lord had commanded Moses to divide the land among the tribes of Israel and provide cities for them (Numbers 35:1-8).
- Shiloh: Shiloh was an important location in the land of Canaan. It was the place where the tabernacle was set up after the Israelites entered the Promised Land. Shiloh served as the central worship center for the Israelites during this period.
- Obedience to God’s Command: The Israelites understood that the command to give them cities and their surrounding suburbs came directly from God through Moses. This demonstrates the importance of obedience to God’s commands and recognizing His authority in their lives.
- Provision for Livestock: The verse mentions that the suburbs were also given to them for their cattle. This reveals God’s concern for providing for the practical needs of His people, including their livestock. It demonstrates His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and taking care of His chosen people.
Application: As believers today, we can learn from this verse about the importance of trusting in God’s promises and being obedient to His commands. Just as God provided for the Israelites, He also provides for our needs and gives us the guidance we need for our lives. We should seek to live in obedience to Him and trust in His faithfulness.
Remember, studying the Bible in depth involves exploring the surrounding verses, understanding the historical and cultural context, and considering other relevant passages. This study provides a starting point, and further exploration can yield deeper insights and understanding of Joshua 21:2 and its significance within the larger narrative of the book of Joshua.
