Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version The fortified towns were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Kinnereth, New Living Translation The fortified towns included in this territory were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Kinnereth, English Standard Version The fortified cities are Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, Berean Standard Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, King James Bible And the fenced cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, New King James Version And the fortified cities are Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, New American Standard Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, NASB 1995 The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer and Hammath, Rakkath and Chinnereth, NASB 1977 And the fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer and Hammath, Rakkath and Chinnereth, Legacy Standard Bible Now the fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer and Hammath, Rakkath and Chinnereth, Amplified Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath and Chinnereth, Christian Standard Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, Holman Christian Standard Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, American Standard Version And the fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, English Revised Version And the fenced cities were Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth; GOD'S WORD® Translation The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, Good News Translation The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, International Standard Version Also included were the fortress towns of Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, NET Bible The fortified cities included Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Kinnereth, New Heart English Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Kinnereth, Webster's Bible Translation And the fortified cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleThe fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, World English Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionand the cities of defense [are] Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, Young's Literal Translation and the cities of defence are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, Smith's Literal Translation And the cities of fortification, Ziddim, Zur and Hammath, Rakkath and Cinneroth, Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAnd the strong cities are Assedim, Ser, and Emath, and Reccath and Cenereth, Catholic Public Domain Version And the most fortified cities are Ziddim, Zer and Hammath, and Rakkath, and Chinnereth, New American Bible The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, New Revised Standard Version The fortified towns are Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAnd the great cities were Tyre, Zidon, Hammath, Karath, Chinnereth, Peshitta Holy Bible Translated And in the great cities in Tsur and in Tsidon and Bakhmath and Qerath and Kenarath OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917And the fortified cities were Ziddim-zer, and Hammath, and Rakkath, and Chinnereth; Brenton Septuagint Translation And the walled cities of the Tyrians, Tyre, and Omathadaketh, and Kenereth, Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Naphtali's Inheritance…34Then the border turned westward to Aznoth-tabor and ran from there to Hukkok, touching Zebulun on the south side, Asher on the west, and Judah at the Jordan on the east. 35The fortified cities were Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, Chinnereth, 36Adamah, Ramah, Hazor,… Cross References 1 Kings 15:20 And Ben-hadad listened to King Asa and sent the commanders of his armies against the cities of Israel, conquering Ijon, Dan, Abel-beth-maacah, and the whole land of Naphtali, including the region of Chinnereth. 2 Kings 15:29 In the days of Pekah king of Israel, Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria came and captured Ijon, Abel-beth-maacah, Janoah, Kedesh, Hazor, Gilead, and Galilee, including all the land of Naphtali, and he took the people as captives to Assyria. 1 Chronicles 6:76 And from the tribe of Naphtali they were given Kedesh in Galilee, Hammon, and Kiriathaim, together with their pasturelands. Isaiah 9:1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those in distress. In the past He humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future He will honor the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations: Matthew 4:13-15 Leaving Nazareth, He went and lived in Capernaum, which is by the sea in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, / to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah: / “Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— Judges 4:6 She summoned Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, “Surely the LORD, the God of Israel, is commanding you: ‘Go and march to Mount Tabor, taking with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun. Judges 5:19 Kings came and fought; then the kings of Canaan fought at Taanach by the waters of Megiddo, but they took no plunder of silver. 2 Samuel 24:6 Then they went to Gilead and the land of Tahtim-hodshi, and on to Dan-jaan and around to Sidon. 1 Kings 9:13 “What are these towns you have given me, my brother?” asked Hiram, and he called them the Land of Cabul, as they are called to this day. 2 Kings 14:25 This Jeroboam restored the boundary of Israel from Lebo-hamath to the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word that the LORD, the God of Israel, had spoken through His servant Jonah son of Amittai, the prophet from Gath-hepher. John 6:1 After this, Jesus crossed to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias). Mark 6:53 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and moored the boat. Luke 5:1 On one occasion, while Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret with the crowd pressing in on Him to hear the word of God, Matthew 14:34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. John 21:1 Later, by the Sea of Tiberias, Jesus again revealed Himself to the disciples. He made Himself known in this way: Treasury of Scripture And the fenced cities are Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth, Hammath Genesis 10:18 And the Arvadite, and the Zemarite, and the Hamathite: and afterward were the families of the Canaanites spread abroad. Numbers 13:21 So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of Zin unto Rehob, as men come to Hamath. Numbers 34:8 From mount Hor ye shall point out your border unto the entrance of Hamath; and the goings forth of the border shall be to Zedad: Hamath Joshua 11:2 And to the kings that were on the north of the mountains, and of the plains south of Chinneroth, and in the valley, and in the borders of Dor on the west, Chinneroth Joshua 13:27 And in the valley, Betharam, and Bethnimrah, and Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon, Jordan and his border, even unto the edge of the sea of Chinnereth on the other side Jordan eastward. Mark 6:53 And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore. Gennesaret Jump to Previous Chinnereth Chin'nereth Cities Defence Hammath Kinnereth Towns WalledJump to Next Chinnereth Chin'nereth Cities Defence Hammath Kinnereth Towns WalledJoshua 19 1. The lot of Simeon10. of Zebulun 17. of Issachar 24. of Asher 32. of Naphtali 40. of Dan 49. The children of Israel give an inheritance to Joshua The fortified cities were The mention of "fortified cities" indicates strategic military and defensive importance. In ancient Israel, fortified cities were essential for protection against invasions and served as administrative centers. These cities often had walls, gates, and towers, reflecting their significance in maintaining security and order. Ziddim Zer Hammath Rakkath Chinnereth Persons / Places / Events 1. ZiddimA fortified city within the territory allotted to the tribe of Naphtali. Its exact location is uncertain, but it is part of the strategic defense network in the region. 2. Zer Another fortified city in Naphtali's inheritance. Like Ziddim, its precise location is not definitively known today, but it played a role in the defense and administration of the area. 3. Hammath A city known for its hot springs, which is likely identified with the modern-day Hamat Tiberias. It was a significant location due to its natural resources. 4. Rakkath This city is often associated with the ancient city of Tiberias, located on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. It was strategically important due to its proximity to water. 5. Chinnereth This city shares its name with the Sea of Chinnereth (Sea of Galilee). It was a vital location for trade and transportation. Teaching Points The Importance of Strategic LocationsThe cities listed in Joshua 19:35 were fortified for protection and control. In our lives, we should identify and fortify areas that are strategically important for our spiritual growth and defense against spiritual attacks. God's Provision and Inheritance Just as God provided specific inheritances to the tribes of Israel, He provides each believer with unique gifts and callings. We should seek to understand and steward these gifts faithfully. Historical and Spiritual Significance Understanding the historical context of biblical locations can enrich our appreciation of Scripture. It reminds us that God's work is both timeless and rooted in real history. Community and Defense The fortified cities represent a community's need for protection and cooperation. In the church, we are called to support and defend one another, building a strong community of faith. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Joshua 19:35?2. How does Joshua 19:35 highlight God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel? 3. What significance do the fortified cities in Joshua 19:35 hold for spiritual protection today? 4. How can we draw parallels between Joshua 19:35 and Ephesians 6:10-18's armor of God? 5. In what ways does Joshua 19:35 encourage us to trust God's provision in our lives? 6. How can the allocation of land in Joshua 19:35 inspire stewardship in our communities? 7. What is the significance of the cities listed in Joshua 19:35 for Israel's history? 8. How does Joshua 19:35 reflect God's promise to the tribes of Israel? 9. What archaeological evidence supports the existence of the cities in Joshua 19:35? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Joshua 19? 11. Who is the Avenger of Blood in the Bible? 12. How does the system of protection for manslaughter in Joshua 20:1-6 align or conflict with other Mosaic laws on homicide and justice? 13. Deuteronomy 19:6: Why would God allow a 'blood avenger' to pursue someone innocent of intentional murder, and where is this justice in historical context? 14. What were the biblical Cities of Refuge for? What Does Joshua 19:35 Mean Ziddim– “The fortified cities were Ziddim…” (Joshua 19:35) • Listed first, Ziddim opens the catalog of Naphtali’s strongholds, signaling that the tribe’s inheritance came with well-defended places from the outset (Joshua 19:32). • Fortified cities were more than population centers; they were signs of God’s tangible protection, answering Moses’ blessing that Naphtali would be “full of the blessing of the LORD” (Deuteronomy 33:23). • Every wall and gate reminded the people that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). • Because Scripture records Ziddim as a real location, we can trust that the boundaries God promised were literally delivered—proof again of His faithfulness (Joshua 21:45). Zer – “…Zer…” • Though its precise site is uncertain today, Zer stood among the ring of Naphtali’s northern defenses, underscoring that God left no flank unguarded (Joshua 19:35). • The mention of an otherwise obscure town shows that God values every place and person; He sees what history often forgets (Matthew 10:29-31). • Zer’s inclusion teaches that security does not rest on a place’s fame but on the Lord who surrounds His people “as the mountains surround Jerusalem” (Psalm 125:2). • Naphtali’s future judges and warriors (Judges 4:6; 7:23) would draw courage from knowing even quiet towns like Zer were part of God’s fortified plan. Hammath – “…Hammath…” • Hammath lay near today’s hot springs of Tiberias, on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. Its strategic location guarded the main north-south route (Numbers 34:8). • By placing a fortress at a vital crossroads, God equipped Naphtali to influence commerce and culture, fulfilling the promise that Israel would be “a kingdom of priests” (Exodus 19:6). • Springs of healing water beside stone walls picture the balance of protection and refreshment the Lord provides (Isaiah 32:2). • Centuries later, Solomon fortified other key towns (2 Chronicles 8:5), echoing the pattern first laid down in Hammath. Rakkath – “…Rakkath…” • Rakkath likely occupied the site later called Tiberias, overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Elevated terrain gave natural defense, magnified by man-made fortifications. • Height in Scripture often signals vantage and victory; David sang, “You set me securely on high” (Psalm 27:5). Rakkath’s altitude illustrated that truth for Naphtali. • From this lookout, watchmen could warn the entire lakeshore, embodying the prophetic role of safeguarding God’s people (Ezekiel 33:7). • Jesus would one day teach along this shoreline (Matthew 14:22-34), showing that places first secured in Joshua’s era became stages for redemption history. Chinnereth – “…Chinnereth.” • Chinnereth was both a city and an early name for the Sea of Galilee (Numbers 34:11). Controlling it meant access to water, fish, and trade routes on every side. • The lake’s fertile surroundings fulfilled Jacob’s hope that Naphtali would be “a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns” (Genesis 49:21), an image of fruitfulness. • Centuries later, Jesus called fishermen beside these waters (Matthew 4:18-22), turning a fortified inheritance into a launching pad for the gospel. • Chinnereth reminds us that God’s gifts are designed for stewardship: He shields resources so His people can bless the nations (Psalm 67:6-7). summary Joshua 19:35 records five specific fortresses—Ziddim, Zer, Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth—to show that God literally handed Naphtali a well-defended, resource-rich territory. Each city illustrates a facet of His care: refuge, remembrance, healing, vantage, and abundance. Together they affirm that when God fulfills His promises, He supplies everything needed for security, service, and future ministry. (35) The fenced cities.--Observe the protection of the northern border by fortresses. Ziddim (Hattin), Hammath (Hammam Tabariya), Rakkath (Tiberias), and Chinnereth (not identified, but giving a name to the Sea of Galilee, and therefore evidently close by), are all in sheet 6, near the lake.(36,37) Adamah (Ed-Dameh,?Daimah, sheet 6), Ramah (Rameh), Hazor (Hadireh), Kedesh (Kades), Edrei (Y'ater), En-hazor (Hazireh), and Iron (Y'arum), are all in sheet 4, north of the above. The town of Hazor has been variously identified by previous writers, but Conder expresses no doubt as to its being Hadireh, which certainly occupies a commanding position above a stream that flows into Lake Merom. Verse 35. - And the fenced cities. The remark is made in the 'Speaker's Commentary' that the number of fenced cities in the north were no doubt owing to a determination to protect the northern boundary of Israel by a chain of fortresses. The word fenced is the same that is rendered strong in ver. 29, "the strong city Tyre." Chinnereth (see Joshua 11:2).Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew The fortifiedמִבְצָ֑ר (miḇ·ṣār) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 4013: A fortification, castle, fortified city, a defender cities וְעָרֵ֖י (wə·‘ā·rê) Conjunctive waw | Noun - feminine plural construct Strong's 5892: Excitement were Ziddim, הַצִּדִּ֣ים (haṣ·ṣid·dîm) Article | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 6661: Ziddim -- a place in Naphtali Zer, צֵ֔ר (ṣêr) Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 6863: Zer -- a city in Naphtali Hammath, וְחַמַּ֖ת (wə·ḥam·maṯ) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 2575: Hammath -- 'hot (spring)', a city in Naphtali Rakkath, רַקַּ֥ת (raq·qaṯ) Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 7557: Rakkath -- a city in Naphtali Chinnereth, וְכִנָּֽרֶת׃ (wə·ḵin·nā·reṯ) Conjunctive waw | Noun - proper - feminine singular Strong's 3672: Chinnereth -- a city in Galilee, also a lake near the city Links Joshua 19:35 NIVJoshua 19:35 NLT Joshua 19:35 ESV Joshua 19:35 NASB Joshua 19:35 KJV Joshua 19:35 BibleApps.com Joshua 19:35 Biblia Paralela Joshua 19:35 Chinese Bible Joshua 19:35 French Bible Joshua 19:35 Catholic Bible OT History: Joshua 19:35 The fortified cities were Ziddim Zer Hammath (Josh. Jos) |