19:9 within the inheritance of them. Simeon’s lot was assigned inside the territory of Judah, but in the south–thus separated from the other tribes. This was in accord with the prophecy of Jacob (Genesis 49:5-7). Simeon was even omitted from Moses’ blessing of the tribes (Deuteronomy 33). However, his tribe is included in the list of tribes in the last days (Revelation 7:7).

19:50 city which he asked. As Caleb was the first to request and be given his inheritance (among the tribes west of the Jordan, that is), so Joshua was the last (Joshua 19:49).

19:50 Timnath-serah. Timnath-serah, the city assigned to Joshua, has been suggested by some as the source of the name Nazareth. The names of both are of uncertain meaning and derivation. However, the locations of the two were quite far apart, so it is unlikely there could be any connection.

20:2 cities of refuge. On the cities of refuge, see also Numbers 35 and Deuteronomy 19:1-13. To some degree, these cities of refuge could be considered a type of Christ (Hebrews 6:18). Note some of the analogies: (1) they were established by God before they were needed; (2) they were available to all, as well as conveniently accessible to all; (3) their gates were always open; (4) they were widely advertised.

20:7 mount Ephraim. All the cities of refuge were located at high elevations, so they could be seen from a great distance. They were also located so that everyone was within a day’s journey from at least one of them. Furthermore, “whosoever” (Joshua 20:9) needed to flee to one of the cities was free to do so, whether he was an Israelite or not.