Topical Bible: the Tribe of Naphtali: Bounds of Their Inheritance

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The Tribe of Naphtali, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Naphtali, the sixth son of Jacob and the second son of Bilhah, Rachel's maidservant (Genesis 30:7-8). The inheritance of the tribe was determined during the conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. The boundaries of Naphtali's territory are detailed in the Book of Joshua, providing insight into the geographical and historical context of their inheritance.

Geographical Boundaries:

The allotment for the tribe of Naphtali is described in Joshua 19:32-39. The territory assigned to Naphtali was located in the northern part of the land of Canaan, a region characterized by its fertile land and strategic location. The boundaries of Naphtali's inheritance are as follows:

· Southern Boundary: The southern boundary of Naphtali's territory began at the Jordan River, extending westward to the region of the Sea of Kinnereth (Sea of Galilee). This area included the fertile plains and hills that were conducive to agriculture and livestock.

· Western Boundary: The western boundary was marked by the territory of the tribe of Asher. This boundary extended northward, encompassing the region that bordered the Mediterranean Sea, although Naphtali itself did not have direct access to the sea.

· Northern Boundary: The northern boundary reached up to the region of Mount Hermon, a significant landmark in the northern part of Israel. This area was known for its high elevation and cooler climate, providing a natural defense against northern invaders.

· Eastern Boundary: The eastern boundary was defined by the Jordan River, which served as a natural border separating Naphtali from the tribes located to the east of the river.

Key Cities and Locations:

Within the territory of Naphtali, several key cities and locations are mentioned in the biblical text. These include:

· Kedesh: A city of refuge located in the territory of Naphtali, Kedesh was an important city for those seeking asylum from avengers of blood (Joshua 20:7).

· Hammath, Rakkath, and Chinnereth: These cities were part of the inheritance of Naphtali, contributing to the tribe's economic and strategic significance (Joshua 19:35).

· Hazor: A prominent Canaanite city conquered by Joshua, Hazor became part of Naphtali's territory and played a significant role in the region's history (Joshua 11:10-11).

Historical and Cultural Significance:

The territory of Naphtali was known for its natural beauty and agricultural productivity. The fertile land supported a variety of crops and livestock, contributing to the tribe's prosperity. The strategic location of Naphtali's inheritance also made it a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange, influencing the tribe's interactions with neighboring peoples.

The tribe of Naphtali played a significant role in the history of Israel, particularly during the period of the Judges and the monarchy. Notably, Barak, a leader from the tribe of Naphtali, was called by the prophetess Deborah to lead the Israelites against the Canaanite army led by Sisera (Judges 4:6-10). This victory underscored the tribe's military prowess and its contribution to the collective security of the Israelite confederation.

In summary, the bounds of Naphtali's inheritance encompassed a region of great strategic and economic importance, marked by its fertile land, key cities, and significant historical events. The tribe's legacy is woven into the broader narrative of Israel's history, reflecting its role in the unfolding account of God's covenant people.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 19:32-39
The sixth lot came out to the children of Naphtali, even for the children of Naphtali according to their families.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... The lot given to each tribe is described ... and her handmaid received as their inheritance
the regions ... important tribes, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Zebulon ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... isolated districts, and by thus restricting each tribe to a ... Egypt preferred not to
meddle in their affairs. ... remembrance of it kept them within bounds for years ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm