Joshua 14:2

Their inheritance was assigned by lot for the nine and a half tribes, as the LORD had commanded through Moses.

Study Bible

Their inheritance was assigned by lot
The practice of assigning land by lot was a common method in ancient Israel, reflecting a belief in divine sovereignty over human affairs. Casting lots was seen as a way to discern God's will, as evidenced in Proverbs 16:33, which states, "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD." This method ensured that the distribution of land was perceived as fair and divinely ordained, minimizing human bias or conflict. The use of lots is also seen in other biblical contexts, such as the selection of Saul as king (1 Samuel 10:20-24) and the replacement of Judas Iscariot by Matthias (Acts 1:26).

for the nine and a half tribes
The nine and a half tribes refer to the tribes of Israel that settled west of the Jordan River. This division occurred because the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan, as described in Numbers 32. The nine and a half tribes included Judah, Ephraim, Benjamin, Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, Dan, and the remaining half of Manasseh. This division highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan (Genesis 15:18-21).

as the LORD had commanded through Moses
This phrase underscores the continuity of God's covenantal promises and commands from Moses to Joshua. Moses, as the servant of the LORD, had received detailed instructions regarding the division of the land (Numbers 34:13-29). Joshua's leadership in carrying out these commands demonstrates his role as Moses' successor and the importance of obedience to God's directives. This continuity is crucial for maintaining the unity and identity of the Israelite nation as they settle in the Promised Land. The command also reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, reinforcing the theme of divine faithfulness throughout the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and overseeing the distribution of the land among the tribes.

2. The Nine and a Half Tribes
Refers to the tribes of Israel that received their inheritance west of the Jordan River. This includes all tribes except Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who received their inheritance east of the Jordan.

3. Moses
The servant of the LORD who led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He was given the command by God regarding the distribution of the land.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who promised the land to Abraham's descendants and directed its distribution.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty in Allocation
The use of lots in distributing the land underscores God's sovereignty and His direct involvement in the affairs of His people. Believers can trust that God is in control of their circumstances and decisions.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
Joshua and the Israelites' adherence to God's instructions through Moses demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's Word. Christians are called to follow God's commands as revealed in Scripture.

Unity and Fairness in Community
The distribution by lot ensured fairness and prevented disputes among the tribes. In the church, believers are encouraged to seek unity and fairness, valuing each member's role and contribution.

Inheritance in Christ
Just as the Israelites received a physical inheritance, believers have a spiritual inheritance in Christ. This inheritance is secure and eternal, offering hope and assurance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of casting lots for the distribution of land reflect God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our decision-making today?

2. In what ways does the obedience of Joshua and the Israelites to God's commands through Moses serve as a model for our own obedience to Scripture?

3. How can the principle of fairness and unity in the distribution of the land be applied to relationships and responsibilities within the church community?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the Israelites' inheritance of the Promised Land and the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ?

5. How does understanding God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel encourage us in trusting His promises in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 26:52-56
This passage details the command given to Moses regarding the distribution of the land by lot, emphasizing the divine guidance in the allocation process.

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that the casting of lots is under God's sovereign control, reinforcing the idea that the land distribution was divinely ordained.

Acts 1:24-26
The apostles cast lots to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot, showing the continued use of lots in seeking God's will in the New Testament.