Definition: And they gave them the city of Arba the father of Anak, which [city is] Hebron, in the hill [country] of Judah, with the suburbs thereof round about it.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 21:11. It’s a really important passage that tells us about the rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem after the Israelites were conquered. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: After the Battle of Jericho was won, the Israelites were told to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. They needed a place for worship and sacrifice. They chose a location – a city called Arba, which is located near Hebron (a significant city in Judah). What the Verse Says: “And they gave them…” : This means the Israelites were giving something to this city. “…the city of Arba the father of Anak…” : Arba was a very important and ancient city. It was called “the father of Anak” – which is a bit of an old-fashioned way of saying it was a very important place. “which [city is] Hebron…” : This is key! Hebron was a significant city in Judah, known for its history and religious importance. It’s where the Law was given to Moses. “…in the hill [country] of Judah…” : The location of Hebron was in the southern part of Judah, a region of the land. “with the suburbs thereof round about it.” : This tells us that Arba had surrounding areas – it wasn't just a single city but a larger area with walls and neighborhoods around it. In short: The Israelites gave the city of Arba to Judah, near Hebron, and surrounded it with walls and neighborhoods. It was a strategically important location for the temple’s upkeep and the religious center of the region. Why is this significant? This verse shows that the rebuilding of the Temple wasn't just about building a new building; it was about establishing a central place for worship and connecting with God in a very real way. It highlights the importance of the location and the city’s role as a focal point for Jewish life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Provide more context about the history behind this event? Discuss what this verse might mean in terms of faith or symbolism?