יהושע, פרק ט״ו, פסוק ג׳

The geographical layout of the Tribe of Judah's land is mapped out using precise topographical and engineering terms, defining the exact path of the southern boundary as it moves across the landscape. The border does not follow a simple straight path. As the measuring line moves, it deviates to jut outward or turn inward [רש״י, מלבי״ם]. In this region, it widens and extends outward toward the south [מצודת דוד]. It reaches an area just south of the Ascent of Akrabbim [רד״ק]. By passing to the south, the boundary effectively sweeps the Ascent of Akrabbim itself into the territory of Judah [רש״י, מצודת דוד].

The boundary line then changes its behavior, forming an angle to surround a specific area from two directions, or circling a region before returning to its original path [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם]. From there, it continues westward across a flat, straight plain toward Zin [רש״י, מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. As the border progresses, it begins an ascent. This can be understood as a physical climb over mountains and hills, or as a geographical shift toward the north [מצודת דוד, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, there is a conceptual view that any movement from the east toward Jerusalem is described as an ascent. Jerusalem is considered the highest place in the Land of Israel, making any travel toward it an upward journey, even though the city itself is not located on this southern border [רש״י].

Continuing its path, the border passes south of Kadesh-barnea, ensuring that this city is also included within Judah's land [רש״י, מצודת דוד]. At this point, the outward bulge of the boundary ends, and the line begins to straighten out once more [מלבי״ם]. Finally, the border keeps moving steadily west [רש״י], passing through the location of Addar and circling the surrounding area of Karka [ביאור שטיינזלץ].