Joshua 17:2

So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh--the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the other male descendants of the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph.

Study Bible

So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—
The tribe of Manasseh was one of the two half-tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob. Manasseh, along with Ephraim, received a significant inheritance in the Promised Land. This phrase indicates that the passage is detailing the specific land allotment for the remaining families within the tribe of Manasseh. Historically, the tribe of Manasseh was divided, with some settling east of the Jordan River and others west. This division reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land his descendants would inherit.

the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida.
These names represent the heads of families or clans within the tribe of Manasseh. Each clan received a portion of land, which was a common practice in ancient Israel to ensure that each family had a stake in the Promised Land. Abiezer is notable as the family from which Gideon, a judge of Israel, descended (Judges 6:11). Shechem is also a significant city in biblical history, serving as a central location for various events, including the covenant renewal under Joshua (Joshua 24:1). The mention of these clans highlights the importance of family lineage and inheritance in Israelite society.

These are the other male descendants of the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph.
This phrase emphasizes the patriarchal nature of inheritance in ancient Israel, where land was typically passed down through male descendants. Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, was given a double portion of inheritance through his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, as a reward for his faithfulness and leadership in Egypt. This allocation underscores the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing over Joseph's sons in Genesis 48:5-6, where they are adopted as Jacob's own sons, thus receiving their own inheritance among the tribes of Israel. The reference to Joseph also serves as a reminder of God's providence and the continuity of His promises through generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. The tribe was divided into two half-tribes, one on each side of the Jordan River.

2. Abiezer
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Gideon, a judge of Israel, was from this clan (Judges 6:11).

3. Helek
Another clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Little is known about this specific clan beyond its mention in the allotment of land.

4. Asriel
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Asriel was a son of Manasseh, and his descendants formed one of the clans.

5. Shechem
A significant city in biblical history, located in the hill country of Ephraim. It was a city of refuge and a Levitical city.

6. Hepher
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Zelophehad, who had no sons but only daughters, was from this clan (Numbers 27:1-11).

7. Shemida
Another clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Like the other clans, it was part of the division of land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Inheritance
The division of the land among the tribes of Israel, including the clans of Manasseh, demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Believers can trust in God's promises for their lives.

Significance of Family and Heritage
The mention of specific clans underscores the importance of family and heritage in God's plan. Christians are encouraged to value their spiritual heritage and pass on their faith to future generations.

Role of Women in God's Plan
The account of Zelophehad's daughters, connected to the clan of Hepher, shows that God values the role of women in His covenant community. This challenges believers to recognize and honor the contributions of women in the church today.

Courage and Leadership
Gideon's account, from the clan of Abiezer, illustrates how God can use individuals from any background to lead and deliver His people. Christians are called to be courageous and obedient to God's calling.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the division of land among the tribes of Israel reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we honor and preserve our spiritual heritage in today's world?

3. How does the account of Zelophehad's daughters challenge traditional views on inheritance and the role of women in the church?

4. What lessons can we learn from Gideon's leadership and how can we apply them in our own lives?

5. How can understanding the historical and familial context of biblical passages enhance our study and application of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter describes Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and the adoption of these sons as his own, which set the stage for the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh.

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage recounts the account of Zelophehad's daughters, who were from the tribe of Manasseh, and their request for an inheritance, which led to a change in inheritance laws for Israel.

Judges 6:11-24
Gideon, from the clan of Abiezer, is called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites, highlighting the significance of the clans within Manasseh.