Joshua 22:7

(To the half-tribe of Manasseh Moses had given land in Bashan, and to the other half Joshua gave land on the west side of the Jordan among their brothers.) When Joshua sent them to their homes he blessed them,

Study Bible

Now to the one half of the tribe of Manasseh
The tribe of Manasseh was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, descended from Joseph's son Manasseh. The division of this tribe into two halves is significant, as it reflects the unique inheritance given to Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, by their grandfather Jacob (Genesis 48:5). This division also highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs, as the land was apportioned according to divine instruction.

Moses had given a possession in Bashan
Bashan was a fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its rich pastures and strong cities (Deuteronomy 3:10). Moses, under God's command, allocated this land to the half-tribe of Manasseh as part of the conquest of the Amorite kings, Sihon and Og (Numbers 32:33). This allocation underscores the faithfulness of God in providing for His people and the importance of obedience to His commands.

but to the other half Joshua gave a possession among their brothers west of the Jordan
The division of the tribe of Manasseh, with one half settling east and the other west of the Jordan, symbolizes unity amidst diversity within the people of God. Joshua's role in distributing the land west of the Jordan demonstrates his leadership and the continuation of God's plan through him after Moses' death. This act of giving possession also signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land (Genesis 15:18-21).

When Joshua sent them away to their tents
The phrase "sent them away to their tents" indicates a return to their homes and families after fulfilling their military obligations to help their fellow Israelites secure the land west of the Jordan (Joshua 1:12-15). This return marks a transition from a period of conquest to one of settlement and rest, reflecting God's provision and the peace that follows obedience and unity.

he blessed them
Joshua's blessing upon the departing tribes is a powerful reminder of the spiritual leadership he provided. Blessings in the biblical context often involve invoking God's favor and protection (Numbers 6:24-26). This act of blessing underscores the importance of spiritual encouragement and the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty in the lives of His people. It serves as a reminder that true prosperity and peace come from living in accordance with God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Half-Tribe of Manasseh
This tribe was unique in that it was divided, with one half receiving land in Bashan (east of the Jordan) and the other half receiving land west of the Jordan.

2. Moses
The leader who initially allocated land to the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, demonstrating his role in the early distribution of the Promised Land.

3. Joshua
The successor of Moses who continued the distribution of land, giving the other half of the tribe of Manasseh their inheritance west of the Jordan.

4. Bashan
A fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its rich pastures and strong cities, given to the half-tribe of Manasseh by Moses.

5. Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary in Israel's history, symbolizing the division between the lands east and west of the river.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The division of the tribe of Manasseh across the Jordan River illustrates how God's people can be united in purpose despite geographical and tribal differences. This calls for unity in the body of Christ today, transcending denominational and cultural boundaries.

Faithfulness to Promises
The allocation of land to the half-tribe of Manasseh fulfills God's promises to the patriarchs. Believers are reminded of God's faithfulness and are encouraged to trust in His promises.

Blessing and Sending
Joshua's blessing as he sends the tribes back to their tents signifies the importance of blessing others as they embark on their journeys. Christians are called to be a blessing to others in their communities and workplaces.

Obedience and Reward
The tribes' obedience in helping conquer the land before returning to their inheritance serves as a model of faithfulness and the rewards that follow. Believers are encouraged to remain obedient to God's calling.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the division of the tribe of Manasseh across the Jordan River reflect the unity and diversity within the body of Christ today?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises in our own lives, as seen in the allocation of land to the tribes?

3. How can we be a blessing to others in our daily interactions, following Joshua's example of blessing the tribes?

4. What are some areas in our lives where we need to demonstrate obedience to God's calling, and how can we expect to see His rewards?

5. How does the account of the half-tribe of Manasseh relate to the broader account of God's covenant with Israel, and what lessons can we draw for our covenant relationship with God through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 32
This chapter provides the background on the request of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, highlighting their agreement to help their fellow Israelites conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance.

Deuteronomy 3
Details Moses' allocation of land to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

Joshua 1
Joshua's charge to the tribes, including the half-tribe of Manasseh, to assist in the conquest of Canaan, reinforcing the unity and shared mission of the Israelites.