What was Misheal?

Misheal was an ancient town located in the tribal inheritance of Asher, one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name Misheal (Hebrew: מִשְׁאָל, Mishʾal) is thought to mean “entreaty” or “request.” Some scholars suggest it may also be related to a word meaning “loan” or “asked for,” echoing the idea of something sought or granted—perhaps reflecting the town’s significance in tribal boundaries or its strategic location.

Misheal is mentioned specifically in Joshua 19:26 as one of the border cities allotted to the tribe of Asher during the division of the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership:

“Allammelek, Amad and Mishal. On the west the boundary touched Carmel and Shihor Libnath.” (Joshua 19:26, NIV)

Misheal is also mentioned in Joshua 21:30 and 1 Chronicles 6:74 as one of the towns given to the Gershonite Levites, indicating that it had religious significance as part of the Levitical inheritance.

Biblical References and Cross-References

• Joshua 19:26 – Misheal listed among the cities given to Asher.

• Joshua 21:30 – Misheal assigned to the Gershonite Levites.

• 1 Chronicles 6:74 – Reiteration of the Levitical assignment of Misheal.

• Numbers 35:1-8 – Background on Levitical cities.

• Deuteronomy 10:8-9 – The role and inheritance of the Levites.

Historical and Biblical Significance

The mention of Misheal occurs during the period of land allotment, a time when the Israelites, under Joshua‘s leadership, were settling into the land that God had promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Each tribe received a portion of land by divine instruction and casting of lots, symbolizing God‘s sovereign distribution of blessings and responsibilities.

Misheal’s allocation to the tribe of Asher marks its geographical placement in the western portion of Canaan, near the Mediterranean coast. This region was agriculturally rich and strategically important. Although the tribe of Asher did not fully drive out the inhabitants of the land (Judges 1:31-32), cities like Misheal remained part of the inherited promise.

Its later designation as a Levitical city adds another layer of meaning. As a Levitical city, Misheal became a place of religious teaching, worship, and justice. The Levites were scattered among the tribes, and their presence in cities like Misheal was a daily reminder to Israel of their covenant with God.

What It Means for Today’s Christians

While Misheal might appear as a minor geographical note, its inclusion in Scripture serves several theological and devotional purposes:

1. God’s Faithfulness in Fulfillment – The assignment of Misheal as part of the tribal inheritance is a testimony to God fulfilling His promises (Joshua 21:43-45). No detail of God’s covenant is too small.

2. Sacredness of Ordinary Places – Misheal, by becoming a Levitical city, reminds Christians that ordinary locations can become centers of worship and teaching when set apart for God‘s purposes.

3. Role of the Church in the World – Just as the Levites were dispersed among Israel to teach and mediate God’s presence, believers today are scattered throughout the world as “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), serving as witnesses in everyday places.

How Misheal Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Misheal, as a city given to the Levites, ultimately points to Christ as our Great High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). The Levitical system, while temporary and symbolic, foreshadowed the work of Jesus who became the final and perfect mediator between God and man.

Furthermore, Misheal’s place in the inheritance narrative highlights the gift of grace in receiving an inheritance not earned but granted—just as salvation is a gift of God (Ephesians 2:8-9), not by human effort.

In Jesus, the “asked-for” (Misheal) one—long desired by Israel—has come, fulfilling the deep entreaty of mankind for redemption and peace.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Inheritance and Promise

Misheal was part of the physical inheritance of Israel. For believers today, this foreshadows the eternal inheritance in Christ (Hebrews 9:15). The distribution of land in Joshua is not just historical—it symbolizes the kingdom blessings given to God‘s people.

2. Presence of God Among His People

The Levites, scattered throughout Israel, signify God‘s design to have His Word and presence near every tribe. This reflects the New Testament reality of the Holy Spirit indwelling every believer and the Church being the body of Christ spread across the earth.

3. Faithfulness in the Small Things

Misheal may seem insignificant, but Scripture includes even the smallest places to show that every detail matters in God‘s redemptive plan. This reinforces Jesus’ words that even a cup of cold water given in His name is remembered (Matthew 10:42).

Reflection Questions

1. What does the story of Misheal teach you about God’s attention to detail in fulfilling His promises?

2. In what ways are you serving as a spiritual “Levite” in your community?

3. Do you see your workplace or home as a place set apart for God’s purposes like Misheal?

4. How does the idea of inheritance in Scripture shape your view of eternal life?

5. How does Misheal’s connection to the Levites encourage you to stay grounded in God’s Word and service?

Misheal, though a brief mention in the Bible, carries profound truths about inheritance, priestly ministry, and God‘s faithfulness. Through its quiet presence in Scripture, it reminds us that no person or place is forgotten in God’s plan—and that all of Scripture ultimately points us to Christ.