Judges 1:33 Meaning and Explanation
“Neither did Naphtali drive out the inhabitants of Bethshemesh, nor the inhabitants of Bethanath; but he dwelt among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land: nevertheless the inhabitants of Bethshemesh and of Bethanath became tributaries unto them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Naphtali fails to drive out the people of Bethshemesh and Bethanath, dwelling among them while putting them to tribute.
What Does Judges 1:33 Mean?
Naphtali follows the now familiar pattern. The inhabitants of Bethshemesh and Bethanath were not driven out, and the tribe dwelt among them, though these cities were eventually made tributary. Like Asher, Naphtali is described as dwelling among the Canaanites rather than the other way around.
The word nevertheless offers only a partial relief, for tribute fell short of the obedience God required. The tribe gained some mastery yet stopped well short of the full task. The verse rounds out the long catalogue of incompletion with the same lesson held throughout: arrangements that leave the forbidden in place, however advantageous, are not the same as faithfulness. The land was given to be possessed wholly, not merely managed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Judges 1:33
What does Judges 1:33 mean?
Naphtali fails to drive out the people of Bethshemesh and Bethanath, dwelling among them while putting them to tribute.