The tribe of Issachar’s territory included several prominent locations in the Jezreel Valley, underscoring God’s detailed provision for His people and His larger plan of redemption.
The allotment of land in Joshua 19 continues for the tribes of Israel, describing the regions and key cities that each tribe inherited by God’s command. Here, the verse emphasizes the domain of Issachar. It states that “Their territory was to Jezreel and included Chesulloth and Shunem” (Joshua 19:18). Each of these places highlights the specific region promised to Issachar, affirming God’s fulfillment of His word delivered through Moses (Numbers 34:18-29). By naming these cities, the text underscores Israel’s occupation of the Promised Land—an act that reminds the reader of God’s ongoing faithfulness.
When the verse says “Their territory was to Jezreel” (v.18), it references a prominent valley located in northern Israel. This region, also called the Jezreel Valley, is known for its strategic importance and fertile land. Throughout the Old Testament, the Jezreel Valley served as a stage for significant events, including battles (1 Samuel 29:1). Framed by Mount Carmel in the west and the hills of Galilee in the north, its geography connected vital trade routes in the ancient Near East, making it a key territory for Issachar.
Chesulloth and Shunem further define this inheritance. The text specifically mentions that “included Chesulloth and Shunem” (v.18). Chesulloth was likely a settlement near the western edge of the Jezreel Valley, while Shunem is notably mentioned in 1 Samuel 28:4 (version) and is traditionally located to the north. Shunem also becomes an important site in the life of Elisha (2 Kings 4:8-37). By detailing these cities, Scripture points to the practical boundaries and historical richness of Issachar’s land, showing God’s care over Israel’s tribal allotments.
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Joshua 19:18 meaning
The allotment of land in Joshua 19 continues for the tribes of Israel, describing the regions and key cities that each tribe inherited by God’s command. Here, the verse emphasizes the domain of Issachar. It states that “Their territory was to Jezreel and included Chesulloth and Shunem” (Joshua 19:18). Each of these places highlights the specific region promised to Issachar, affirming God’s fulfillment of His word delivered through Moses (Numbers 34:18-29). By naming these cities, the text underscores Israel’s occupation of the Promised Land—an act that reminds the reader of God’s ongoing faithfulness.
When the verse says “Their territory was to Jezreel” (v.18), it references a prominent valley located in northern Israel. This region, also called the Jezreel Valley, is known for its strategic importance and fertile land. Throughout the Old Testament, the Jezreel Valley served as a stage for significant events, including battles (1 Samuel 29:1). Framed by Mount Carmel in the west and the hills of Galilee in the north, its geography connected vital trade routes in the ancient Near East, making it a key territory for Issachar.
Chesulloth and Shunem further define this inheritance. The text specifically mentions that “included Chesulloth and Shunem” (v.18). Chesulloth was likely a settlement near the western edge of the Jezreel Valley, while Shunem is notably mentioned in 1 Samuel 28:4 (version) and is traditionally located to the north. Shunem also becomes an important site in the life of Elisha (2 Kings 4:8-37). By detailing these cities, Scripture points to the practical boundaries and historical richness of Issachar’s land, showing God’s care over Israel’s tribal allotments.