What is the meaning of Judges 1:36? And the border of the Amorites - “The border of the Amorites” spotlights a people group God had commanded Israel to drive out (Genesis 15:16; Deuteronomy 7:1–2). - In Judges 1 the tribe of Dan is pressed into the hill country because these Amorites hold the valleys (Judges 1:34). The verse under study marks how far the Amorites still control territory even after Israel’s entry. - Their stubborn presence underscores Israel’s partial obedience. God had pledged, “I will drive them out little by little” (Exodus 23:30), but Israel’s compromise leaves a foothold for future trouble (Judges 2:1–3). Extended from the Ascent of Akrabbim - The places the Ascent of Akrabbim on the southern approach to the Judean wilderness: “It will go down across the Ascent of Akrabbim, continue to Zin, and end at Kadesh-barnea” (Numbers 34:4; cf. Joshua 15:3). - Akrabbim (“Scorpions Pass”) was part of the border between Judah and Edom. That the Amorite line reaches this far south shows they occupy land Israel should have secured (Joshua 13:1). - Practically, this means travel routes and trade corridors remain under pagan control, limiting Israel’s economic and military freedom. To Sela - Sela (“rock”) lies east of the Arabah, later known as Edom’s mountain fortress—Petra (2 Kings 14:7; Isaiah 16:1). - The mention of Sela widens the picture: Amorite influence pushes not only south but also eastward across the Rift. - This rock-hewn stronghold illustrates how the Amorites leveraged natural defenses. Israel’s reluctance to confront such fortifications foreshadows later struggles with similar hilltop enclaves (1 Samuel 13:6). And beyond - “And beyond” tells us the line is open-ended; Amorite strength spills past the named landmarks. - Scripture often speaks this way to emphasize a situation bigger than the reader might expect (Deuteronomy 3:5; Joshua 11:4). - Spiritually, the phrase warns that any territory we leave unconquered—sins we tolerate—tends to spread. Judges will repeatedly show how compromise grows into oppression (Judges 3:12–14; 6:2). - Yet even here God is faithful: He raises deliverers as Israel cries out (Judges 3:9; 10:15–16), proving He keeps covenant even when His people falter. summary Judges 1:36 records the literal boundary line still dominated by the Amorites: from the steep desert pass of Akrabbim down to the rocky fortress of Sela and onward. The verse highlights Israel’s incomplete conquest and the far-reaching grip of an enemy they failed to expel. It is a sober reminder that partial obedience leaves room for ongoing conflict, whereas full trust in God’s promises brings complete freedom and blessing. |
    |