Joshua 17: The Allotment of Land to the Tribe of Manasseh
1. Introduction
Joshua chapter 17 continues the distribution of the Promised Land among the Israelites, focusing on the tribe of Manasseh. Manasseh was the firstborn son of Joseph, and his descendants received their inheritance alongside those of his brother Ephraim. The chapter highlights the complexities of inheritance, the claims of the daughters of Zelophehad, and the challenge of occupying the allotted land.
2. Breakdown of Joshua 17
The chapter can be divided into the following key sections:
A. The Inheritance of Manasseh (Joshua 17:1-6)
The opening verses describe the inheritance given to the tribe of Manasseh, particularly to Machir, the firstborn son of Manasseh.
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Verse 1 – The chapter starts by affirming that the land was given to Manasseh, the firstborn of Joseph. Machir, Manasseh’s firstborn, was a great warrior, and thus, he received Gilead and Bashan (east of the Jordan).
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Verse 2 – The remaining families of Manasseh, who were not descendants of Machir, received land west of the Jordan. These families included:
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Abiezer
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Helek
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Asriel
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Shechem
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Hepher
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Shemida
These descendants were allocated land among the territories of the western side of Canaan.
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Verses 3-4 – This section highlights the daughters of Zelophehad, who was a descendant of Hepher. Zelophehad had no sons, only daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. They appealed to Joshua and the leaders for a land inheritance, citing God’s command given through Moses (Numbers 27:1-11). Joshua honored their request, giving them an inheritance among their male relatives.
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Verse 5-6 – Because of the daughters' inheritance, Manasseh received ten portions of land, in addition to the land of Gilead and Bashan across the Jordan. This section highlights the fairness of God’s law and the rights of women in inheritance matters.
B. The Boundaries of Manasseh (Joshua 17:7-13)
The next section describes the territorial boundaries of Manasseh.
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Verse 7-10 – The western territory of Manasseh is outlined:
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The boundary extended from Asher (in the north) to Michmethath, near Shechem.
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The land stretched southward to En-Tappuah.
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The city of Tappuah belonged to Manasseh but was controlled by Ephraim.
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Manasseh’s boundary continued toward the Mediterranean Sea.
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It bordered Asher to the north and Issachar to the east.
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Verses 11-13 – Despite their inheritance, Manasseh faced challenges in fully taking control of their land:
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They received cities within the territories of Issachar and Asher, including Beth-shean, Ibleam, Dor, Endor, Taanach, and Megiddo.
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The Canaanites, however, remained in these areas.
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When the Israelites became stronger, they subjected the Canaanites to forced labor but did not drive them out completely.
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This partial obedience would later cause problems, as the Canaanites would become a source of idolatry and corruption.
C. The Complaint of Joseph’s Descendants (Joshua 17:14-18)
The chapter concludes with a discussion between Joshua and the tribe of Joseph (which includes both Ephraim and Manasseh).
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Verse 14 – The people of Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) complain to Joshua, saying that their territory is too small for their large population.
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Verse 15 – Joshua responds by challenging them to clear the forested hill country of the Perizzites and Rephaim (giants) if they need more space.
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Verse 16 – The Josephites express their concerns:
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They fear the Canaanites in the valley, who have iron chariots (a significant military advantage).
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They specifically mention the Canaanites in Beth-shean and Jezreel.
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Verses 17-18 – Joshua reassures them:
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He acknowledges their great numbers and strength.
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He tells them to clear the forest and occupy the hill country.
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He encourages them to conquer the Canaanites, despite their iron chariots.
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Joshua’s response emphasizes faith in God rather than fear of strong enemies.
3. Key Themes in Joshua 17
A. The Fulfillment of God’s Promises
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This chapter demonstrates how God faithfully fulfills His promise to give land to the descendants of Joseph.
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The daughters of Zelophehad receiving their inheritance further confirms that God’s laws are just.
B. The Challenge of Complete Obedience
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Manasseh failed to completely drive out the Canaanites (Joshua 17:12-13).
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Partial obedience led to long-term consequences, as the Canaanites later influenced Israel negatively.
C. The Rights of Women in Inheritance
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The daughters of Zelophehad set a precedent for women’s inheritance rights in Israel.
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Their case highlights God’s justice and fairness.
D. Human Complaints vs. Divine Provision
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The tribe of Joseph complained about their land allocation (Joshua 17:14).
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Joshua challenged them to take action rather than complain.
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God had given them everything they needed; they only needed to act in faith.
4. Application for Today
A. Trusting in God’s Provision
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Like the tribe of Joseph, we sometimes feel that what God has given us is not enough.
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Instead of complaining, we should trust God and make full use of what He has provided.
B. The Danger of Partial Obedience
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The Israelites allowed the Canaanites to remain in the land.
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This mirrors how Christians sometimes allow sin to remain in their lives, leading to future struggles.
C. Courage to Overcome Challenges
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The people feared the Canaanites with iron chariots, but Joshua encouraged them.
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We also face "iron chariots" in life—obstacles that seem impossible to overcome.
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With God, we can overcome any challenge (Philippians 4:13).
D. Fighting for Our Spiritual Inheritance
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Like the daughters of Zelophehad, we must claim the promises of God.
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If we feel forgotten or overlooked, we can boldly approach God in prayer.
5. Conclusion
Joshua 17 is a powerful chapter that teaches us about God’s faithfulness, the importance of obedience, and trusting in divine provision. The struggles of Manasseh reflect our own spiritual battles, but with faith and courage, we can overcome any obstacle.
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