יהושע, פרק י״ט, פסוק מ״ד

Mapping the ancient tribal territories often involves piecing together subtle clues hidden in the names of the cities themselves. When allocating the land, distinguishing between various towns requires careful attention to detail. According to one perspective, a specific city located within the territory of Dan is completely distinct from a similarly named city found earlier within the territory of Judah. Although their names sound almost identical, a minor difference in their spelling marks them as two entirely separate locations [רד״ק].

An alternative tradition from the early sages offers a different understanding, identifying both names as referring to the exact same place. To explain how a single city could be listed as part of two different tribal inheritances, this view describes a unique practical arrangement between the tribes. The actual houses and residential areas within the city limits were owned by the tribe of Judah, while the agricultural fields surrounding the town were given to the tribe of Dan [רד״ק].