Joshua 17:17

So Joshua said to the house of Joseph--to Ephraim and Manasseh--"You have many people and great strength. You shall not have just one allotment,

Study Bible

So Joshua said to the house of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—
Joshua addresses the descendants of Joseph, specifically the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. Joseph was one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and his two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, were adopted by Jacob as his own, effectively giving Joseph a double portion among the tribes of Israel (Genesis 48:5). This double portion is significant as it reflects the blessing and favor Joseph received from his father. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were among the most prominent in Israel, with Ephraim often taking a leading role in the northern kingdom. This address by Joshua highlights the importance and influence of these tribes within the nation.

“You have many people and great strength.
Joshua acknowledges the numerical strength and military capability of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. This recognition is important in the context of the conquest and settlement of Canaan, where population size and military strength were crucial for occupying and defending the land. The mention of "great strength" also alludes to the blessing Jacob gave to Joseph, where he described Joseph as a fruitful bough by a well, whose branches run over the wall (Genesis 49:22-24). This imagery suggests prosperity and strength, which is now being realized in the tribes' ability to expand and settle the land.

You shall not have just one allotment,
Joshua promises that the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh will not be confined to a single portion of land. This statement is a response to their request for more territory due to their large population (Joshua 17:14-16). The allocation of land was a critical issue for the tribes of Israel, as it determined their economic and social stability. The promise of additional land reflects the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to the patriarchs, ensuring that their descendants would inherit the land of Canaan. It also underscores the principle of divine provision and justice, as the tribes are assured that their needs will be met according to God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and distributing the land among the tribes.

2. House of Joseph
Refers to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph, who were given a significant inheritance in the Promised Land.

3. Ephraim and Manasseh
The two tribes that descended from Joseph, each receiving a portion of land. They were known for their size and strength.

4. Allotment of Land
The division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, a significant event in the history of Israel as it fulfilled God's promise to Abraham.

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

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to Ephraim and Manasseh is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs.

Recognizing and Utilizing God-Given Strengths
Joshua acknowledges the strength and numbers of Ephraim and Manasseh, encouraging them to use their God-given resources effectively.

The Importance of Unity and Cooperation
The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh are reminded of their shared heritage and the need to work together to fully possess their inheritance.

Trusting in God's Provision
Despite challenges, the tribes are encouraged to trust in God's provision and step out in faith to claim what has been promised to them.

Stewardship of God's Gifts
The passage highlights the responsibility of stewarding the resources and blessings God has given, using them for His glory and the benefit of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of land to Ephraim and Manasseh reflect God's faithfulness to His promises? Can you think of other instances in the Bible where God fulfilled His promises?

2. In what ways can we recognize and utilize the strengths and resources God has given us in our personal lives and communities?

3. How can the unity and cooperation between Ephraim and Manasseh serve as a model for relationships within the church today?

4. What are some practical ways we can trust in God's provision when facing challenges or uncertainties in our lives?

5. How can we be good stewards of the gifts and blessings God has given us, ensuring they are used for His purposes and the benefit of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, where he adopts them as his own sons, giving them a special inheritance.

Numbers 26
The census of the tribes of Israel, highlighting the large numbers of Ephraim and Manasseh, which supports their need for more land.

Deuteronomy 33
Moses' blessing on the tribes, including a specific blessing for Joseph's descendants, emphasizing their strength and prosperity.

1 Chronicles 5
The genealogies and territories of the tribes, including Ephraim and Manasseh, providing historical context for their inheritance.