They paused on their way to secure new territory before settling permanently.
“Then they went up and camped at Kiriath-jearim in Judah. Therefore they called that place Mahaneh-dan to this day; behold, it is west of Kiriath-jearim.” (v.12) This verse describes the tribe of Dan’s movement and temporary encampment during their search for a new territory. They chose to set up camp in an area that belonged to the tribe of Judah, specifically at Kiriath-jearim, which was located west of modern-day Jerusalem and historically considered a border settlement between the tribes of Judah and Benjamin (1 Samuel 7:2). By placing their tents in the region of another tribe, the Danites demonstrate a transitory presence—suggesting they were pausing to regroup or seeking guidance before pressing on further north to claim land.
Kiriath-jearim, mentioned here, held significance as a place where the Ark of the Covenant was brought and remained for years (1 Samuel 7:1-2). It was situated roughly eight miles west from Jerusalem, surrounded by forested hills, which likely provided natural cover and resources. In this setting, the Danites memorialized their presence by naming the campsite “Mahaneh-dan,” meaning “Camp of Dan.” This naming convention symbolized their collective identity and unity during a season of transition and uncertainty.
The faith aspect of this verse is subtle yet profound. Even as the Danites made practical strategic decisions—like camping in a favorable location—they were still part of God’s larger plan for the distribution of Israel’s inheritance in the Promised Land. This foreshadows the necessity of relying on God’s direction, reminiscent of how the Israelites depended on divine guidance in their wilderness wanderings. The reference also foreshadows how ultimately, God’s purposes would be fully realized in Jesus Christ (Luke 2:4), who came from the tribe of Judah, linking the entire story of Israel’s tribes to the Messiah’s salvation plan.
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Judges 18:12 meaning
“Then they went up and camped at Kiriath-jearim in Judah. Therefore they called that place Mahaneh-dan to this day; behold, it is west of Kiriath-jearim.” (v.12) This verse describes the tribe of Dan’s movement and temporary encampment during their search for a new territory. They chose to set up camp in an area that belonged to the tribe of Judah, specifically at Kiriath-jearim, which was located west of modern-day Jerusalem and historically considered a border settlement between the tribes of Judah and Benjamin (1 Samuel 7:2). By placing their tents in the region of another tribe, the Danites demonstrate a transitory presence—suggesting they were pausing to regroup or seeking guidance before pressing on further north to claim land.
Kiriath-jearim, mentioned here, held significance as a place where the Ark of the Covenant was brought and remained for years (1 Samuel 7:1-2). It was situated roughly eight miles west from Jerusalem, surrounded by forested hills, which likely provided natural cover and resources. In this setting, the Danites memorialized their presence by naming the campsite “Mahaneh-dan,” meaning “Camp of Dan.” This naming convention symbolized their collective identity and unity during a season of transition and uncertainty.
The faith aspect of this verse is subtle yet profound. Even as the Danites made practical strategic decisions—like camping in a favorable location—they were still part of God’s larger plan for the distribution of Israel’s inheritance in the Promised Land. This foreshadows the necessity of relying on God’s direction, reminiscent of how the Israelites depended on divine guidance in their wilderness wanderings. The reference also foreshadows how ultimately, God’s purposes would be fully realized in Jesus Christ (Luke 2:4), who came from the tribe of Judah, linking the entire story of Israel’s tribes to the Messiah’s salvation plan.