Joshua 17:1-2: The Inheritance of Manasseh’s Descendants
“This was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn, that is, for Makir, Manasseh’s firstborn. Makir was the father of Gilead; because he was a man of war, the Gileadites received Gilead and Bashan. So this allotment was for the rest of the people of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida.”
In these verses, we see the distribution of land to the descendants of Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. Manasseh’s inheritance is particularly significant because it was split across both sides of the Jordan River. Makir, the eldest son, received Gilead and Bashan because he was a warrior, implying that part of this inheritance came through military conquest. The historical timeline of this event occurs after the Israelites had settled in the Promised Land, following their conquest under Joshua’s leadership. These lands, including Gilead and Bashan, were territories east of the Jordan, long associated with Israel’s military victories under Moses (Numbers 32). The effect on Makir’s descendants is clear: their military prowess and conquests earned them a significant portion of land, underscoring the value placed on bravery and strength in Israel’s early days.
One question that arises is why the tribe of Manasseh received such a large inheritance, with land on both sides of the Jordan. A possible answer is that, as the firstborn son of Joseph, Manasseh held a special place in Israel’s inheritance system. Traditionally, the firstborn received a double portion, which might explain why the tribe of Manasseh had territories both east and west of the Jordan. The land distribution was not only a matter of necessity but reflected the tribal hierarchies and the accomplishments of certain families, such as Makir’s. Moreover, the division of land across the Jordan demonstrates God’s fulfillment of His promises and the ongoing role of the tribes in securing and maintaining Israel’s borders.
Joshua 17:3-6: The Daughters of Zelophehad
“Now Zelophehad son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Makir, the son of Manasseh, had no sons but only daughters, and their names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah. They approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders and said, ‘The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our relatives.’ So Joshua gave them an inheritance along with the brothers of their father, according to the LORD’s command.”
In this section, we encounter a unique story regarding the daughters of Zelophehad, who boldly claim their inheritance despite the lack of male heirs in their family. Historically, this moment is rooted in an earlier account from Numbers 27, when these same daughters approached Moses, asking for their father’s inheritance. The fact that they are granted land in Joshua 17 highlights the forward-thinking legal system of Israel, which allowed women to inherit land in the absence of sons. This event takes place during the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel, specifically as they settle in the western regions of Canaan. The daughters’ motivation was driven by their desire to preserve their family’s legacy, and their actions set a precedent for land rights within Israel.
A key question here is: Why did the daughters of Zelophehad feel so confident in approaching the leaders for their inheritance, and what does this reveal about Israel’s societal norms? The answer lies in the fact that their case had already been sanctioned by God through Moses, giving them confidence that their request would be honored. This also reveals a progressive aspect of Israelite law, where justice and fairness took precedence over strict patriarchy. Commentator Matthew Henry notes that the daughters of Zelophehad “teach us that when we are wronged, we have leave to demand justice in a humble and dutiful manner,” and their faith in God’s justice ultimately secured their family’s place in Israel.
Joshua 17:7-13: The Borders of Manasseh’s Territory
“The territory of Manasseh extended from Asher to Mikmethath east of Shechem. The boundary ran southward from there to include the people living at En Tappuah. (Manasseh had the land of Tappuah, but Tappuah itself, on the border of Manasseh, belonged to the Ephraimites.)”
This section details the geographic boundaries of Manasseh’s inheritance, highlighting the complexity of land ownership between the tribes. Manasseh’s territory stretched from Asher in the north down toward Shechem, with some overlap and shared regions with Ephraim, the other half of Joseph’s descendants. Historically, this passage occurred after the conquest of Canaan but reflects ongoing tension between tribes over land borders and resources. The proximity to Ephraim likely created both alliances and rivalries, as these two tribes shared a common ancestry but had distinct roles within Israel. The overlapping territories also suggest a need for cooperation, as seen when Manasseh controlled the land but Ephraim retained the city.
One possible question from this section might be: Why were the borders of Manasseh and Ephraim so intertwined, and what effect did this have on the relationship between these tribes? The answer could be found in their shared heritage as sons of Joseph, which might have necessitated their close proximity and cooperative governance. However, as seen in later biblical narratives, such as the division of Israel into two kingdoms (1 Kings 12), tensions between northern tribes like Ephraim and Manasseh eventually contributed to the nation’s fracture. Their shared borders may have symbolized both their unity and the challenges they faced in maintaining peace and cooperation over time.
Joshua 17:14-18: The Request for More Land
“The people of Joseph said to Joshua, ‘Why have you given us only one allotment and one portion for an inheritance? We are a numerous people, and the LORD has blessed us abundantly.’ Joshua answered, ‘If you are so numerous, and if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go up into the forest and clear land for yourselves there in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaites.’”
Here we see the people of Joseph, represented by the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, petition Joshua for more land, arguing that their growing population requires additional territory. Joshua responds by encouraging them to take initiative and clear the forested land for themselves, rather than relying solely on the allotments. Historically, this request comes after the initial division of the land, as the tribes begin to realize the practical needs of settling large populations. The hills of Ephraim, while fertile, may not have had sufficient space for the growing numbers of Joseph’s descendants. Joshua’s response emphasizes self-reliance and resourcefulness, urging the people to conquer the land they needed, much like their ancestors did during the conquest of Canaan.
A question that arises here is: Why did Joshua instruct the people of Joseph to clear more land rather than granting them additional allotments elsewhere? The answer likely lies in Joshua’s recognition that the Israelites were called to continue the work of claiming the Promised Land. Joshua’s leadership sought to inspire them to trust God’s provision and take action to secure their inheritance. Scholar David M. Howard Jr. notes, “Joshua’s reply points to a broader theological truth: the inheritance was available, but it had to be claimed through effort and faith.” The tribes of Joseph had to take ownership of their situation, rather than waiting for more to be given to them.
Inspiring Insights from Joshua 17
The story of Makir’s descendants teaches us that God honors our faithfulness and bravery in using the gifts and opportunities He gives us. Even when we’re given a tough challenge, like Makir’s family receiving land through conquest, God equips us for the battle.
The daughters of Zelophehad remind us that God’s justice transcends societal norms. When we feel overlooked or marginalized, we can approach God with confidence, knowing He sees us and values our contribution, no matter what our circumstances may be.
Manasseh’s shared borders with Ephraim teach us about the importance of cooperation and unity within the body of Christ. Sometimes, God places us in close proximity with others for a reason, even when it’s challenging, and we’re called to live in harmony and mutual respect.
The request for more land by the people of Joseph challenges us to take initiative and responsibility for our growth. When we feel like our resources or opportunities are limited, we are encouraged to step out in faith and work toward expanding the territory God has given us.
The Meaning of Joshua 17 to Contemporary Christians
Joshua 17 holds valuable lessons for contemporary Christians. It speaks to the importance of stewardship, initiative, and trust in God’s promises. The story of the daughters of Zelophehad demonstrates that God’s kingdom is one of inclusion and justice, where everyone has a place and a role to fulfill. It also reminds us that faith requires action. Just as the people of Joseph had to clear the forested land to accommodate their growing numbers, we are called to put our faith into practice by using the gifts, talents, and opportunities God has given us.
For Christians today, this chapter serves as a powerful reminder that God’s promises are available to us, but we must be willing to take responsibility for our part in realizing them. Whether through cooperation with others, as seen in the shared borders of Manasseh and Ephraim, or through bold requests like that of the daughters of Zelophehad, our faith is an active response to God’s faithfulness.
For further insights on how God’s promises and our responsibilities intersect, visit this article: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/trusting-god-with-what-you-have.
FEEL FREE TO COMMENT AND SHARE