What is the meaning of Joshua 16:4?

So

“ So Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph, received their inheritance.” (Joshua 16:4)

• The little word “so” ties this verse to the larger flow that began in Joshua 13:7 and Joshua 14:1, where the land-division process was set in motion.

• It signals completion—after Judah’s allotment in Joshua 15, the next stage is accomplished.

• Compare the similar transitional “so” statements in Joshua 17:9 and Judges 1:20, where an action is finalized and settled.

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Ephraim and Manasseh

• These two tribes sprang from Joseph’s firstborn Manasseh and second-born Ephraim (Genesis 41:50-52).

• Their joint mention highlights their brotherhood yet distinct tribal identities. See also Numbers 26:28-37, where each tribe is counted separately.

• In Joshua 17:14-18 they will respond differently to their allotments, underscoring that shared lineage does not erase unique callings.

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The sons of Joseph

• Scripture repeatedly emphasizes that Ephraim and Manasseh represent Joseph’s legacy (Genesis 48:5; 1 Chronicles 5:1-2).

• Joseph received the double portion of the firstborn (Deuteronomy 21:17), and that double portion materializes here through two tribal territories instead of one.

• Jacob’s blessing in Genesis 48:15-20 foretold their prominence; Joshua 16:4 records its fulfillment.

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Received

• “Received” is covenant language: what God promised, He now hands over (Joshua 21:43-45).

• The verb underscores divine generosity and human responsibility; they do not seize the land, they accept it (Joshua 1:2-3; Psalm 16:5-6).

• Later, failure to fully possess portions of that gift will be judged (Judges 1:27-29), reminding us that reception must be matched by faithful occupation.

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Their inheritance

• An inheritance (nachalah) is a permanent, God-granted possession (Numbers 34:2; Deuteronomy 12:9).

• For Ephraim and Manasseh it included fertile valleys and strategic hills (Joshua 16:5-10; 17:7-11).

• This earthly inheritance foreshadows the imperishable one reserved for all believers (1 Peter 1:4), secured by the same covenant-keeping God.

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summary

Joshua 16:4 marks the moment when God’s promise of a double portion to Joseph crystalizes in land deeds for Ephraim and Manasseh. The concise verse links seamlessly with the preceding allotments, underscores the unique yet united identities of Joseph’s sons, celebrates the faithful delivery of God’s pledge, and invites every reader to recognize that divine gifts are graciously received and responsibly lived out.