Kedesh: Also Called Kishion and Kishon: A Canaanite City Captured by Joshua
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Overview:
Kedesh, also known as Kishion and Kishon, is a significant city mentioned in the Old Testament. It was a Canaanite city that was captured by Joshua during the Israelite conquest of the Promised Land. The city is noted for its strategic importance and its role in various biblical narratives.

Biblical References:
Kedesh is first mentioned in the context of the territorial allotments to the tribes of Israel. It is located in the region assigned to the tribe of Naphtali. In Joshua 12:22, Kedesh is listed among the cities whose kings were defeated by Joshua: "the king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam in Carmel, one" .

The city is also identified as a Levitical city and a city of refuge. In Joshua 20:7, it is designated as one of the cities of refuge: "So they set apart Kedesh in Galilee in the hill country of Naphtali, Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim, and Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the hill country of Judah" . This designation highlights its role as a place where individuals who had committed unintentional manslaughter could seek asylum.

Historical and Geographical Context:
Kedesh is situated in the region of Upper Galilee, an area known for its fertile land and strategic location. The city's capture by Joshua is part of the broader narrative of the Israelite conquest of Canaan, as described in the Book of Joshua. The conquest of Kedesh and other Canaanite cities was seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the descendants of Abraham.

Role in Israelite Society:
As a Levitical city, Kedesh was one of the cities given to the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel. This allocation underscores the city's religious significance and its role in supporting the Levitical priesthood. The Levites were responsible for various religious duties, including teaching the Law and maintaining the sanctuary.

The designation of Kedesh as a city of refuge further emphasizes its importance in maintaining justice and mercy within Israelite society. Cities of refuge were established to provide protection and due process for those accused of manslaughter, ensuring that justice was tempered with compassion.

Later Historical Significance:
Kedesh continued to hold significance in later biblical history. It is mentioned in the context of the judges and the monarchy. In Judges 4:6, the prophetess Deborah summons Barak to Kedesh to lead an army against the Canaanite commander Sisera: "She summoned Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali and said to him, 'Has not the LORD, the God of Israel, commanded you: ‘Go, deploy your troops on Mount Tabor. Take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun’?" .

The city's strategic location and historical associations made it a focal point in the narratives of Israel's military and spiritual leaders.

Conclusion:
Kedesh, also known as Kishion and Kishon, is a city rich in biblical history and significance. Its capture by Joshua, its role as a Levitical city and city of refuge, and its involvement in key biblical events underscore its importance in the narrative of Israel's history and God's unfolding plan for His people.
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Joshua 12:22
The king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam of Carmel, one;
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Joshua 19:20
And Rabbith, and Kishion, and Abez,
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Joshua 21:28
And out of the tribe of Issachar, Kishon with her suburbs, Dabareh with her suburbs,
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1 Chronicles 6:72
And out of the tribe of Issachar; Kedesh with her suburbs, Daberath with her suburbs,
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Resources
Who was Naphtali in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

Who were the Kenites? | GotQuestions.org

What is the significance of Galilee in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org

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Kedesh: Also Called Kedesh-Naphtali: Home of Barak and Heber
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