The leaders of Israel gather to divide the land among them. The first tribe to choose their inheritance is Judah. Caleb, son of Jephunneh, who publicly praised the Promised Land after scouting it along with Joshua (see Numbers 13), now has the privilege of choosing his inheritance. He selects Hebron, the city of the patriarchs. Caleb displays great courage and determination, asserting that he is not afraid to fight the Anakites. Caleb represents gratitude. Upon his return from scouting the land decades earlier, he had already demonstrated his love for it. His expectations were realistic—he saw potential in every obstacle. Presently, Caleb decides where he wants his tribe to settle and expresses his willingness to face the daunting enemy. Once more, Caleb devotes himself to his sublime ideals and is not led astray by selfish impulses or complacency.
“Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel” (Joshua 14:1)
“Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children’s for ever” (Joshua 14:9)
“as my strength wasthen, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in” (Joshua 14:11)
Devotion combines self-discovery with love; as we discover our life’s purpose, we devote ourselves to others and to our cause.
