Joshua 18:5

and divide the land into seven portions. Judah shall remain in their territory in the south, and the house of Joseph shall remain in their territory in the north.

Study Bible

and divide the land into seven portions.
This directive comes as the Israelites are in the process of settling the Promised Land. The division into seven portions is significant because it reflects the remaining tribes that have not yet received their inheritance. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible, indicating a divinely ordained distribution. This division was to be carried out by surveyors, ensuring fairness and adherence to God's commands. The process underscores the importance of order and obedience in the community of God's people.

Judah shall remain in their territory in the south,
Judah's territory had already been established, as seen in earlier chapters. This tribe's location in the south is significant due to its future prominence in Israel's history. Judah would become the leading tribe, producing kings like David and ultimately Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" in Revelation 5:5. The southern location also provided a strategic position for defense and trade, contributing to Judah's strength and influence.

and the house of Joseph shall remain in their territory in the north.
The house of Joseph refers to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, Joseph's sons, who received a double portion of inheritance. Their location in the north is crucial as it places them in a fertile and strategically important area. This territory included significant sites such as Shechem and Shiloh, which held religious and historical importance. The division also foreshadows the later split of the united kingdom into Israel (north) and Judah (south), with the northern kingdom often being associated with the house of Joseph. This separation highlights the distinct roles and destinies of these tribes within God's plan for Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, allotted territory in the southern part of the Promised Land. Known for its future significance as the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ would come.

3. House of Joseph
Refers to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, descendants of Joseph, who were given territory in the northern part of the Promised Land.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to Abraham and his descendants, which the Israelites are in the process of possessing and dividing among the tribes.

5. Shiloh
The place where the Israelites gathered to set up the Tent of Meeting and where the land division was organized.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The division of the land is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Believers can trust in God's promises in their own lives.

Order and Structure in God's Plan
The organized division of the land reflects God's desire for order and structure. This can encourage believers to seek God's guidance in organizing their own lives and communities.

Unity and Diversity Among God's People
While each tribe received a distinct portion, they were all part of one nation under God. This illustrates the unity and diversity within the body of Christ today.

Inheritance and Responsibility
The land was an inheritance, but it also came with the responsibility to steward it well. Believers are called to steward their God-given gifts and resources responsibly.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the division of the land among the tribes of Israel demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Reflect on a promise from God that you have seen fulfilled in your life.

2. In what ways does the organized division of the land encourage us to seek order and structure in our spiritual and daily lives?

3. How can the unity and diversity among the tribes of Israel inspire us to appreciate and work within the diversity of the body of Christ today?

4. What responsibilities come with the inheritance that God has given you, whether spiritual gifts, talents, or resources?

5. How can the account of the land division in Joshua 18:5 encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives, even when it requires patience and faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49
Jacob's blessings to his sons, including Judah and Joseph, foreshadow the future territories and roles of their descendants.

Numbers 34
Details the boundaries of the Promised Land and the instructions for dividing it among the tribes.

1 Chronicles 5
Chronicles the genealogies and territories of the tribes, including Judah and the house of Joseph.