The Gift of Suburbs: Finding Sacred Space
"And Holon with her suburbs, and Debir with her suburbs," - Joshua 21:15

In the book of Joshua, particularly in Joshua 21:15, we read, "And Holon with her suburbs, and Debir with her suburbs." At first glance, this scripture may seem to speak merely of geographical locations, specified cities, and their surrounding lands. Yet, upon deeper reflection, we find profound truths about divine provision, community, and the importance of creating sacred spaces in our lives.
**Understanding Holon and Debir**
Holon and Debir are names of cities designated for the Levites, the priestly tribe of Israel. These cities, along with their suburbs, were given to the Levites to fulfill God's commandment of providing for those who ministered to Him. This allocation signifies God's intention to ensure that those serving in religious capacities would have a place to dwell and cultivate their relationship with Him and their community. As we reflect on these cities, we are reminded that God cares deeply for those who are devoted to His service, providing them not just with a place to live, but a place to thrive.
**Suburbs: A Place of Nurturing**
The term "suburbs" in this context can symbolize the spaces surrounding the cities where the Levites resided. These suburbs were not just physical land. Rather, they represent the nurturing environment necessary for spiritual growth and community. In our own lives, we must ask ourselves: where are our suburbs? Where do we find space to grow spiritually, gather with others, and create nourishing connections?
The concept of suburbs can extend beyond physical locations; they can denote the aspects of our lives that surround our relationship with God. Do we have 'suburbs' in our lives that facilitate our spiritual journey? These could be our homes, our church communities, or our relationships with fellow believers. Each of these areas serves as a supportive base from which we can foster our relationship with God and engage with those around us in meaningful ways.
**Divine Provision in Community**
Moreover, this scripture highlights the importance of community itself. God did not just provide for the Levites in isolation; they received cities with suburbs, indicating a larger network of mutual support and interaction. As Christ's followers, we are not meant to walk this faith journey alone. Each believer is a part of the Body of Christ, meant to contribute to the whole and to be supported by community. The suburbs of our lives—those groups, churches, or even friendships—are critical in shaping our spiritual robustness. They provide a platform for worship, study, encouragement, and accountability.
**Creating Sacred Spaces**
As we consider Holon, Debir, and their suburbs, we are beckoned to create our own sacred spaces. These could be physical locations set aside for prayer and meditation, such as a dedicated room or a quiet corner in our homes. They could also be moments in our day designated for communion with God—times we guard fiercely against the distractions of life. In these spaces—be they literal or metaphorical—we can encounter God, listen for His voice, and reflect upon His Word.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, Joshua 21:15 teaches us that our spiritual journey is not an isolated endeavor but is deeply intertwined with the communities we build and the sacred spaces we create. God has provided each of us with a place—both in the sense of physical geography and relational environments—to cultivate our faith and flourish. Let us be mindful, therefore, to acknowledge our Holons and Debirs, nurturing the suburbs of our lives, allowing them to guide and shape us to be vessels of His grace to the world.
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Joshua 21:15 Artwork
Joshua 21:15 - "And Holon with her suburbs, and Debir with her suburbs,"
"And Holon with her suburbs, and Debir with her suburbs," - Joshua 21:15
Joshua 15:21 - "And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur,"
Joshua 24:21 - "And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD."
Joshua 4:15 - "And the LORD spake unto Joshua, saying,"
"And the uttermost cities of the tribe of the children of Judah toward the coast of Edom southward were Kabzeel, and Eder, and Jagur," - Joshua 15:21
Joshua 10:15 - "¶ And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to Gilgal."
Joshua 24:15
Joshua 8:15 - "And Joshua and all Israel made as if they were beaten before them, and fled by the way of the wilderness."
Joshua 24:15
Joshua 24:15
"And the LORD spake unto Joshua, saying," - Joshua 4:15
Joshua 10:21 - "And all the people returned to the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in peace: none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel."
Joshua 21:21 - "For they gave them Shechem with her suburbs in mount Ephraim, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Gezer with her suburbs,"
Joshua 15:29 - "Baalah, and Iim, and Azem,"
Joshua 15:42 - "Libnah, and Ether, and Ashan,"
Joshua 15:50 - "And Anab, and Eshtemoh, and Anim,"
Joshua 15:30 - "And Eltolad, and Chesil, and Hormah,"
Joshua 15:40 - "And Cabbon, and Lahmam, and Kithlish,"
Joshua 15:23 - "And Kedesh, and Hazor, and Ithnan,"
Joshua 15:22 - "And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah,"
Joshua 11:15 - "¶ As the LORD commanded Moses his servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the LORD commanded Moses."
Joshua 5:15 - "And the captain of the LORD'S host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so."
Joshua 15:39 - "Lachish, and Bozkath, and Eglon,"
Joshua 15:31 - "And Ziklag, and Madmannah, and Sansannah,"
Joshua 15:43 - "And Jiphtah, and Ashnah, and Nezib,"
Joshua 15:26 - "Amam, and Shema, and Moladah,"
Joshua 15:38 - "And Dilean, and Mizpeh, and Joktheel,"
Joshua 15:24 - "Ziph, and Telem, and Bealoth,"
Joshua 15:56 - "And Jezreel, and Jokdeam, and Zanoah,"