Judges 1:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

What do the words, "And the Lord was with Judah: and He took the mountain, because it was impossible for Him to take those who dwell in the woe, because Rehab opposed them" signify? The Holy Scripture frequently describes Rehab as a devout individual, whose faithfulness was passed down to his offspring. It is noted that this Rehab advised the tribe of Judah to leave their homeland and inhabit the mountains. He belonged to the tribe of Judah, as indicated in the Chronicles. However, I believe he counseled them to vacate the city due to the immorality of the neighboring populace and the closeness to the sea. Those residing near the ocean often welcome distant travelers and venture out to sea themselves. Such interactions with foreign peoples can be detrimental to living in accordance with the law.

In the book of Judges, it is noted that Judah failed to conquer Gaza and Ascalon: they took the hill country, but were unable to drive out the inhabitants of the land because Rehobo was opposed to them, and there were iron chariots present. The book of Joshua states that God granted the entirety of the land to the Israelites as an inheritance: "And the Lord gave the whole land to Israel, which they swore to their fathers to give; and they inherited it, and dwelt in it" (Joshua 21:43). According to the insights of the venerable Augustine, it can be deduced from these passages that although the whole land was indeed destined for the Israelites, certain portions were not yet given into their possession; however, they were designated for the Hebrews for a significant purpose.