Definition: And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same [is] Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that [lieth] before the valley of Hinnom westward, which [is] at the end of the valley of the giants northward:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 15:8. It's a really interesting and somewhat complex passage about establishing a boundary and marking the land as “Jerusalem.” Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a very deliberate and significant action taken by God to secure the borders of Israel after the conquest of Canaan (modern-day Israel). It's essentially saying, "We're establishing a boundary line here that goes all the way to the south side of the valley of Hinnom, and it’s exactly where Jerusalem should be." Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And the border went up…” : This refers to building a physical barrier. “…by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite…” : "The valley of the son of Hinnom" is a specific, somewhat remote area that God designated as the boundary line. The “Jebusite” was a group of people who lived in this area and were considered to be a threat. So, the border goes through that valley. “…the same [is] Jerusalem…” : This is the key part! The boundary line isn't just any line; it’s exactly where the land should be marked as the center of God's covenant with Israel – the location of Jerusalem. It’s a symbolic declaration that this area is the place where the people of Israel are to settle and worship. “…and the border went up to the top of the mountain that lieth before the valley of Hinnom westward, which [lieth] before the valley of the giants northward:” : This is a longer, more detailed description of how the boundary line was established. It describes the location of a mountain: “that lieth before the valley of Hinnom…” : The mountain is located to the west of the valley of Hinnom. “…which [lieth] before the valley of the giants northward:” : This means the mountain is directly in front of a large, prominent rock formation (the “giants”) that lies to the north of the valley of Hinnom. This suggests a specific geographical feature. Overall Meaning & Significance: The verse describes a boundary line established with a very specific purpose: to mark the location of Jerusalem. It’s a powerful statement about God's control and establishing a secure area for his people. It shows a clear, deliberate act of establishing the core of Israel’s identity and territory. Important Note: The context of this verse is complex and debated among scholars. Some interpret it as simply marking an existing boundary; others see it as a significant symbolic step in establishing Jerusalem as the center of God's chosen people. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Provide a historical context for this passage? Discuss the symbolism behind the boundary line?