Manasseh’s Western Inheritance 1Now this was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn son, namely for Machir the firstborn of Manasseh and father of the Gileadites, who had received Gilead and Bashan because Machir was a man of war. 2So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer,a Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the other male descendants of the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph. 3But Zelophehad son of Hepher (the son of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of Manasseh) had no sons but only daughters. These are the names of his daughters: Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. 4They approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders, and said, “The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brothers.” So Joshua gave them an inheritance among their father’s brothers, in keeping with the command of the LORD. 5Thus ten shares fell to Manasseh, in addition to the land of Gilead and Bashan beyond the Jordan, 6because the daughters of Manasseh received an inheritance among his sons. And the land of Gilead belonged to the rest of the sons of Manasseh. 7Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath near Shechem, then southward to include the inhabitants of En-tappuah. 8The region of Tappuah belonged to Manasseh, but Tappuah itself, on the border of Manasseh, belonged to Ephraim. 9From there the border continued southward to the Brook of Kanah. There were cities belonging to Ephraim among the cities of Manasseh, but the border of Manasseh was on the north side of the brook and ended at the Sea.b 10Ephraim’s territory was to the south, and Manasseh’s was to the north, having the Sea as its border and adjoining Asher on the north and Issachar on the east. 11Within Issachar and Asher, Manasseh was assigned Beth-shean, Ibleam, Dor (that is, Naphath), Endor, Taanach, and Megiddo, each with their surrounding settlements. 12But the descendants of Manasseh were unable to occupy these cities, because the Canaanites were determined to stay in this land. 13However, when the Israelites grew stronger, they put the Canaanites to forced labor; but they failed to drive them out completely. 14Then the sons of Joseph said to Joshua, “Why have you given us only one portion as an inheritance? We have many people, because the LORD has blessed us abundantly.” 15Joshua answered them, “If you have so many people that the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go to the forest and clear for yourself an area in the land of the Perizzites and the Rephaim.” 16“The hill country is not enough for us,” they replied, “and all the Canaanites who live in the valley have iron chariots, both in Beth-shean with its towns and in the Valley of Jezreel.” 17So 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, 18because the hill country will be yours as well. It is a forest; clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours. Although the Canaanites have iron chariots and although they are strong, you can drive them out.” Footnotes: 2 a Abiezer is a variant of Iezer; see Numbers 26:30. 9 b That is, the Mediterranean Sea, also called the Great Sea; also in verse 10 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Joshua 17 Summary Manasseh's Western InheritanceVerses 1–2 – Inheritance for the Sons of Manasseh Verses 3–6 – The Daughters of Zelophehad Claim Their Share Verses 7–11 – Borders of Western Manasseh Verses 12–13 – Canaanites Remain in the Land Verses 14–18 – Joseph’s Complaint and Joshua’s Charge In this passage, we see the complex unfolding of the inheritance for the tribe of Manasseh, firstborn son of Joseph. Amidst the division of the lands and the struggles to claim it, we see a significant event where the daughters of Zelophehad make a claim for their inheritance, marking a key moment for gender equality in biblical history. Historical Setting • Timing: Roughly 1400 BC, during the division of Canaan after the major southern and northern campaigns (Joshua 10-12). • Political Map: Eastern Manasseh already holds fertile Transjordan pastureland (Gilead, Bashan). Western Manasseh now receives a smaller, fragmented share in central Canaan, wrapped around the territory of Ephraim. • Social Structure: Israel is organized by tribes, clans, and households. Land equals survival; inheritance rules determine personal security and tribal continuity. The Daughters of Zelophehad: Courage and Precedent • Numbers 27, 36 show their earlier appeal to Moses. God affirmed their case, stating, “You must give them property … and transfer their father’s inheritance to them” (Numbers 27:7). • Their presence here proves that earlier promises carry weight in the new land. Joshua upholds Mosaic authority, demonstrating continuity between the wilderness generation and those in Canaan. • They model bold faith. Instead of accepting loss, they respectfully challenge for what God said was theirs, foreshadowing believers who “come boldly to the throne of grace” (Hebrews 4:16). • Their account balances male-centric norms, reminding Israel that God values justice for all. Geography and Archaeology • Shechem: A natural pass between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim; later a Levitical city of refuge (Joshua 21:21). Excavations at Tell Balata reveal Middle and Late Bronze layers matching the biblical timeline. • Beth-shean: Strategic junction where the Jezreel and Jordan Valleys meet; Egyptian stelae (15th–12th century BC) attest to Canaanite-Egyptian contact, explaining lingering Canaanite presence. • Megiddo: Famous for its many occupation layers and massive Solomonic gates; Iron Age chariot remains echo the “iron chariots” feared by the tribes (17:16). • Kanah Valley (Nahal Kanah): Seasonal stream marking Ephraim-Manasseh border; Iron Age pottery scatters affirm Israelite settlement phases. • Dor: Coastal port with abundant imported pottery, pointing to ongoing trade that made complete conquest harder. Why Canaanites Remained 1. Military complacency—borders seemed secure. 2. Economic motive—forced labor provided income. 3. Spiritual drift—the allure of Canaanite culture eroded zeal. Later books (Judges 1:27-33; 2:1-3) highlight the price of partial obedience: idolatry, oppression, and moral decay. Parallel Passages • Judges 1 expands on the failure of Manasseh, Ephraim, and others to drive out locals. • 1 Chronicles 7 lists Manasseh’s descendants, linking clan names to these settlements. • Psalm 78:55: “He … apportioned their inheritance … and settled the tribes of Israel in their tents,” reflecting on this very division. • Hebrews 11:32 mentions Gideon, whose hometown Ophrah lies in Manasseh, illustrating later faith from this tribe. Lessons on Faith and Responsibility • Inheritance must be possessed, not just granted. God gives the land, but Israel must clear forests and face iron chariots. Believers receive promises yet must act in obedience (Philippians 2:12-13). • Bold requests matter. The daughters’ petition and the tribe’s complaint both show that open dialogue with God-appointed leaders is welcome. • Compromise can feel easier but costs future peace. Forced labor seemed profitable, yet it seeded later conflict (Judges 6:1-6). Foreshadowing in the New Testament • Manasseh’s divided inheritance—east and west of the Jordan—pictures the believer’s present earthly life and secure heavenly hope (Ephesians 1:13-14). • Joshua’s charge to clear forested hills echoes John 15:2, where unfruitful branches are removed so that growth may come. • The inclusion of women as equal heirs anticipates Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek … male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Manasseh’s Future • During Israel’s monarchy, Megiddo and Beth-shean become key royal cities (1 Kings 9:15). • In Assyrian times, eastern Manasseh is first exiled (2 Kings 15:29), a warning that partial obedience yields eventual loss. • Yet Ezekiel 48 lists Manasseh among the restored tribes in the prophetic land, showing God’s faithfulness despite failure. Practical Take-aways • Hold God to His Word: The daughters did; so can we. • Finish what God starts: Clear “wooded areas” in life—habits, fears, unfinished tasks. • Don’t settle for coexistence with sin; drive it out by Spirit-led effort (Romans 8:13). • Trust that size and strength of obstacles—“iron chariots”—do not intimidate the Lord of hosts. Key Names and Meanings • Manasseh – “causing to forget”; Joseph named him because God made him forget past troubles (Genesis 41:51). • Machir – “sold”; his descendants were skilled warriors and received Gilead. • Zelophehad – “shadow of fear”; yet his daughters step into the light of faith. • Tappuah – “apple”; fertile region near the border. • Beth-shean – “house of ease/rest”; ironic, because Israel never fully rested there. By weaving courage, compromise, and command, Joshua 17 challenges every generation: God’s gifts are generous, but walking them out requires faith that faces the forest and the chariot alike. Connections to Additional Scriptures Faith and Obedience Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes the importance of faith in pleasing God, while James 2:17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. God's Promises 2 Corinthians 1:20 assures us that all of God's promises are Yes in Christ, encouraging us to trust in His faithfulness. Inheritance in Christ Ephesians 1:11 speaks of our inheritance in Christ, reminding us of the spiritual blessings we have as believers. Teaching Points Inheritance and FulfillmentJoshua 17:1-6 details the inheritance given to the tribe of Manasseh, including the daughters of Zelophehad, who were granted an inheritance among their father's brothers. This highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and the importance of inheritance rights. Challenges in Possession Verses 12-13 describe how the Manassites were unable to drive out the Canaanites completely, leading to cohabitation and eventual forced labor. This illustrates the incomplete obedience and the consequences of not fully trusting in God's power. Request for More Land In verses 14-18, the descendants of Joseph request more land, claiming their current allotment is insufficient. Joshua challenges them to clear the forested hill country, emphasizing the need for effort and faith in God's provision. Practical Applications Trust in God's PromisesJust as the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim were given a promise, we too must trust in God's promises, even when obstacles seem insurmountable. Complete Obedience Partial obedience can lead to compromised situations. We must strive for complete obedience to God's commands to fully experience His blessings. Effort and Faith When faced with challenges, we should be willing to put in the effort, trusting that God will provide the strength and resources needed to overcome. People 1. ManassehManasseh is the son of Joseph and the ancestor of the tribe receiving the land allotment in this chapter. The name "Manasseh" (מְנַשֶּׁה) in Hebrew means "causing to forget," reflecting Joseph's statement about forgetting his troubles in Egypt (Genesis 41:51). 2. Machir Machir is the firstborn son of Manasseh and the father of Gilead. He is noted for being a warrior, and his descendants received land on the east side of the Jordan River. The name "Machir" (מָכִיר) is associated with selling or trading. 3. Gilead Gilead is the son of Machir and represents a clan within the tribe of Manasseh. The name "Gilead" (גִּלְעָד) is often associated with a region known for its balm and rugged terrain. 4. Zelophehad Zelophehad is a descendant of Manasseh who had no sons, only daughters. His case is significant because it led to a legal precedent regarding inheritance rights for daughters. The name "Zelophehad" (צְלָפְחָד) is somewhat obscure in meaning, possibly related to protection or shadow. 5. Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah These are the five daughters of Zelophehad. They approached Moses to claim their father's inheritance, leading to a change in the inheritance laws for Israel. Their names are as follows Mahlah (מַחְלָה) - Possibly means "sickness" or "disease." Noah (נֹעָה) - Means "motion" or "rest." Hoglah (חָגְלָה) - Means "partridge." Milcah (מִלְכָּה) - Means "queen" or "counsel." Tirzah (תִּרְצָה) - Means "delight" or "pleasure." 6. Joshua Joshua is the leader of Israel who oversees the distribution of the land among the tribes. His name (יְהוֹשֻׁעַ) means "The LORD is salvation." Places 1. MakirMakir was the firstborn of Manasseh and the father of Gilead. The descendants of Makir were given the region of Gilead and Bashan because they were warriors. 2. Gilead This region was east of the Jordan River and was known for its balm. It was allotted to the descendants of Makir. 3. Bashan Located to the north of Gilead, Bashan was a fertile area known for its cattle and oak trees. It was also given to the descendants of Makir. 4. Asher This refers to the boundary of the land allotted to Manasseh, which extended to the territory of the tribe of Asher. 5. Issachar Another boundary marker for Manasseh's territory, Issachar was a neighboring tribe to the south. 6. Beth-shean A city within the territory of Manasseh, known for its strategic location and historical significance. 7. Ibleam Another city within Manasseh's territory, mentioned in the context of the Canaanites who lived there. 8. Dor A coastal city that was part of Manasseh's inheritance, though the Canaanites continued to live there. 9. En-dor Known for its association with the witch of Endor in the account of King Saul, this city was within the territory of Manasseh. 10. Taanach A city in the Jezreel Valley, part of Manasseh's inheritance, but the Canaanites were not driven out completely. 11. Megiddo A significant city in ancient Israel, known for its strategic location and historical battles. It was part of Manasseh's territory. 12. Naphoth This term refers to the surrounding regions or districts, particularly around Dor. 13. Jokmeam A city mentioned in the context of the Canaanites who lived in the land allotted to Manasseh. 14. Gezer Although not directly mentioned in Joshua 17, it is often associated with the region and context of the Canaanite cities. Events 1. Allotment for the Tribe of ManassehThe chapter begins with the description of the land allotment for the tribe of Manasseh, Joseph's firstborn. The text notes that Machir, the firstborn of Manasseh and the father of Gilead, was a man of war, and therefore he received Gilead and Bashan (Joshua 17:1). 2. Inheritance for the Daughters of Zelophehad The daughters of Zelophehad, who was a descendant of Manasseh, approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua, and the leaders to claim their inheritance. They reminded them of the LORD's command given through Moses to give them an inheritance among their father's brothers. As a result, they received an inheritance among their father's brothers (Joshua 17:3-6). 3. Boundaries of Manasseh's Territory The passage outlines the boundaries of the land allotted to the tribe of Manasseh. It describes the territory extending from Asher to Michmethath, east of Shechem, and then southward to include the inhabitants of En-tappuah (Joshua 17:7-10). 4. Canaanites in Manasseh's Territory The Canaanites continued to dwell in the land of Manasseh, particularly in the cities of Beth-shean and its towns, Ibleam and its towns, the inhabitants of Dor and its towns, the inhabitants of En-dor and its towns, the inhabitants of Taanach and its towns, and the inhabitants of Megiddo and its towns. The Israelites were not able to drive them out completely, but when they grew stronger, they subjected the Canaanites to forced labor (Joshua 17:11-13). 5. Complaint of the Descendants of Joseph The descendants of Joseph, which include the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, approached Joshua to express their dissatisfaction with the size of their allotted land. They argued that they were a numerous people and needed more space (Joshua 17:14). 6. Joshua's Response to the Complaint Joshua responded by advising them to clear the forested hill country of the Perizzites and the Rephaim if the hill country of Ephraim was too small for them. He encouraged them to expand their territory by taking the land of the Canaanites, who had iron chariots and were strong (Joshua 17:15-18). Topics 1. Inheritance of the Tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 17:1-2)The chapter begins by detailing the allotment of land to the tribe of Manasseh, the firstborn of Joseph. The passage highlights the specific families within Manasseh that received their inheritance. The Hebrew root for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, ^nachalah^) signifies a possession or portion, emphasizing the divine allocation of land. 2. Inheritance for the Daughters of Zelophehad (Joshua 17:3-6) Zelophehad's daughters, Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, receive an inheritance among their father's brothers because Zelophehad had no sons. This reflects the earlier decision in Numbers 27, where God commanded Moses to grant them an inheritance. The Hebrew root for "daughters" (בָּנוֹת, ^banot^) underscores the inclusion of women in the inheritance rights, a significant cultural shift. 3. Boundaries of Manasseh's Territory (Joshua 17:7-11) The passage describes the geographical boundaries of Manasseh's territory, which includes both land on the west side of the Jordan and territories within the land of Canaan. The description of boundaries (גְּבוּל, ^gevul^) is crucial for understanding the extent of the tribal lands. 4. Canaanites in Manasseh's Territory (Joshua 17:12-13) Despite receiving their inheritance, the Manassites were unable to drive out the Canaanites completely. Instead, they subjected them to forced labor. The Hebrew root for "drive out" (יָרַשׁ, ^yarash^) indicates the intended dispossession of the Canaanites, which was not fully realized. 5. Joseph's Descendants Request More Land (Joshua 17:14-18) The descendants of Joseph, which include the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, approach Joshua to request more land due to their large population. Joshua instructs them to clear the forested hill country and drive out the Canaanites. The dialogue reflects the Hebrew root for "request" (שָׁאַל, ^sha'al^), indicating a formal petition for additional resources. Themes 1. Inheritance and Allotment of LandJoshua 17 discusses the allocation of land to the tribe of Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph. This theme highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites regarding the inheritance of the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for inheritance, "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), signifies a possession or heritage, emphasizing the divine provision and the continuity of God's covenant with His people. 2. Challenges in Possessing the Land The chapter addresses the challenges faced by the tribe of Manasseh in fully possessing their allotted territory. Despite receiving a significant portion, they struggled with driving out the Canaanites. This theme underscores the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to God's commands and the reality of opposition, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "חָזַק" (chazaq), meaning to be strong or courageous. 3. Request for Additional Land The descendants of Joseph, including the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, request more land due to their large population. This theme illustrates the tension between divine provision and human perception of need. The dialogue between Joshua and the tribes highlights the importance of faith and initiative in claiming God's promises. 4. Divine Encouragement and Responsibility Joshua encourages the tribes to clear the forested hill country and drive out the Canaanites, despite their iron chariots. This theme emphasizes the balance between divine encouragement and human responsibility. The Hebrew root "יָרַשׁ" (yarash), meaning to possess or inherit, is central to understanding the active role required in claiming God's promises. 5. Unity and Cooperation Among Tribes The interactions between the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh and their collective request for more land highlight the need for unity and cooperation among the Israelites. This theme reflects the broader biblical principle of communal responsibility and support within the covenant community. Answering Tough Questions 1. Joshua 17:12: Why couldn’t Manasseh drive out the Canaanites if God had already promised total victory? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the division of land among Manasseh's descendants reflect the fulfilment of God's promise? 2. Discuss the significance of the daughters of Zelophehad receiving an inheritance. What does this say about the status of women during this period? 3. In the context of Zelophehad's daughters, how does this passage address the issue of gender equality? What contemporary applications can you draw from this? 4. How do the detailed descriptions of the borders and cities contribute to the narrative and what do they symbolize? 5. Why were the descendants of Manasseh unable to fully occupy their cities, and what does this tell us about the importance of obedience in God's plan? 6. How does the dialogue between the sons of Joseph and Joshua demonstrate the balance between faith and action? 7. If you were in Joshua's position, how would you handle the complaints of the sons of Joseph? 8. Can you find parallels in the modern world where God's blessings, like the land in this passage, are in abundance but require work and bravery to fully claim? 9. In your life, have you experienced a time when, like the sons of Joseph, you were blessed abundantly but felt it wasn't enough? How did you address this feeling? 10. How does Joshua's response to the sons of Joseph challenge our understanding of problems and solutions? Can this be applied to challenges in your life? 11. If you were among the descendants of Manasseh, how would you address the issue of the persistent Canaanites? 12. How can we apply Joshua's encouragement to "clear the forest" in our modern lives? 13. How does the fear of the Canaanites and their iron chariots reflect our own fears when facing formidable obstacles? 14. In the face of fear and doubt, like the sons of Joseph faced with the Canaanites, how can we rely on God's promise and strength? 15. Can you identify situations in today's society where people are not fully claiming their 'inheritance' or potential because of fear or complacency? 16. How do the intertwined territories of Manasseh and Ephraim speak to the interconnectedness of human lives and communities? 17. How might the narrative change if the sons of Joseph didn’t speak up about their need for more land? How does this encourage communication and asserting one's needs? 18. The Canaanites are portrayed as obstacles to the tribes fully claiming their inheritance. What are the 'Canaanites' in your life, and how can you confront them? 19. How do faith and action play a part in overcoming the obstacles represented by the Canaanites and the iron chariots? 20. How can the story of Manasseh's inheritance inspire us to boldly claim God's promises, despite the challenges we face? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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