Joshua 13:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Heshbon, and all her cities that are in the plain; Dibon, and Bamothbaal, and Bethbaalmeon,”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Reuben's inheritance included Heshbon and its cities on the plain, along with Dibon, Bamoth-baal, and Beth-baal-meon.
What Does Joshua 13:17 Mean?
The cities of Reuben's portion are named: Heshbon, once Sihon's capital, with all its towns on the plain, together with Dibon, Bamoth-baal, and Beth-baal-meon. Some of these names carry traces of the old Canaanite worship once practiced there.
That land formerly bound to false worship now belongs to the people of the LORD is itself a kind of redemption of place. Ground once given to idols becomes home to those who serve the living God. The naming of these cities marks not only an inheritance but a transfer of allegiance, as territory passes from the service of Baal to the keeping of God's covenant people. What was claimed by idols is reclaimed for the worship of the true God.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 13:17
What does Joshua 13:17 mean?
Reuben's inheritance included Heshbon and its cities on the plain, along with Dibon, Bamoth-baal, and Beth-baal-meon.