Joshua 13:32

These were the portions Moses had given them on the plains of Moab beyond the Jordan, east of Jericho.

Study Bible

These were the portions
This phrase refers to the specific allotments of land given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The division of land was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the inheritance of the land by his descendants (Genesis 15:18-21). The allocation of land was a significant event, as it represented the tangible fulfillment of God's covenant with Israel.

Moses had given them
Moses, as the leader of Israel, was responsible for distributing the land east of the Jordan River. This act of giving land was part of his final duties before his death and before the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership. Moses' role as a lawgiver and leader is a type of Christ, who also provides an inheritance for His people (Hebrews 3:1-6).

on the plains of Moab
The plains of Moab were located east of the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. This area was significant as it was the final encampment of the Israelites before entering Canaan. It was here that Moses delivered his final speeches, which are recorded in the book of Deuteronomy. The plains of Moab were also the setting for the Balaam narrative (Numbers 22-24), where God protected Israel from curses.

beyond the Jordan
This phrase indicates the land on the eastern side of the Jordan River. The Jordan River served as a natural boundary for the land of Canaan. The tribes settled here were given their inheritance before the rest of the Israelites crossed the Jordan into the Promised Land. This area was strategically important for trade and military purposes.

east of Jericho
Jericho was one of the first major cities encountered by the Israelites as they entered Canaan. Its location was crucial as it controlled access to the central highlands of Canaan. The mention of Jericho here foreshadows its significance in the conquest narrative, where it becomes the first city to fall to the Israelites under Joshua's leadership (Joshua 6). The fall of Jericho is a testament to God's power and faithfulness in delivering the land to His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who, under God's guidance, led them out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He is responsible for distributing the inheritances east of the Jordan.

2. Plains of Moab
A region east of the Jordan River, where the Israelites camped before entering the Promised Land. It is significant as the place where Moses gave his final instructions.

3. Jordan River
A major geographical boundary for the Israelites, symbolizing the transition from the wilderness to the Promised Land.

4. Jericho
A city located near the Jordan River, known for its walls that fell after the Israelites marched around them, marking the beginning of their conquest of Canaan.

5. Inheritance
Refers to the land allocations given to the tribes of Israel, a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land for his descendants.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Leadership
Moses exemplifies faithful leadership by ensuring the tribes receive their inheritances as God commanded, even though he would not enter the Promised Land himself.

God's Promises Fulfilled
The distribution of land is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham and his descendants.

Preparation for Transition
The allocation of land east of the Jordan prepares the Israelites for their transition into the Promised Land, teaching us the importance of preparation in our spiritual journeys.

Obedience to God's Commands
The tribes' willingness to settle as instructed by Moses reflects obedience, a key aspect of living a life pleasing to God.

Community and Cooperation
The distribution of land required cooperation among the tribes, highlighting the importance of unity and working together in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' role in distributing the inheritances reflect his leadership qualities, and what can we learn from him about leading others in faith?

2. In what ways does the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham through the land distribution encourage us to trust in God's promises today?

3. How can we apply the principle of preparation, as seen in the Israelites' readiness to enter the Promised Land, to our own spiritual lives?

4. What does the obedience of the tribes in accepting their inheritances teach us about the importance of following God's commands in our daily lives?

5. How can the cooperation among the tribes in receiving their land inspire us to foster unity and collaboration within our own communities and churches?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 34
Describes Moses' view of the Promised Land from Mount Nebo, located in the plains of Moab, and his death before the Israelites crossed the Jordan.

Numbers 32
Details the agreement between Moses and the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle in the land east of the Jordan.

Genesis 12
God's promise to Abraham about giving his descendants the land, which is being fulfilled through the distribution of inheritances.

Hebrews 11
Highlights the faith of the patriarchs, including Moses, who trusted in God's promises regarding the land.