Joshua 12:6

Moses, the servant of the LORD, and the Israelites had struck them down and given their land as an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Study Bible

Moses, the servant of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes Moses' role as a faithful and obedient leader under God's authority. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "ebed," which denotes a position of humility and dedication. Moses is consistently portrayed as a servant who carries out God's will, highlighting the importance of servanthood in leadership. His life exemplifies the principle that true leadership in God's kingdom is marked by service and submission to God's commands.

and the Israelites
The inclusion of the Israelites signifies the collective effort and unity of God's people in fulfilling His promises. The Hebrew term "Yisra'el" refers to the descendants of Jacob, who was renamed Israel. This collective identity underscores the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people, who are called to act in obedience and faith.

struck them down
This phrase indicates the military victory achieved by Moses and the Israelites. The Hebrew verb "nakah" means to strike or smite, often used in the context of battle. This victory is not merely a human achievement but is portrayed as divinely ordained, reflecting God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people and fulfilling His promises.

and Moses the servant of the LORD
The repetition of this phrase reinforces Moses' role and the divine authority under which he operates. It serves as a reminder of the consistency and faithfulness required of God's servants. Moses' leadership is characterized by his unwavering commitment to God's instructions, setting a standard for future leaders.

gave their land as an inheritance
The act of giving the land as an inheritance is significant in the biblical narrative. The Hebrew word "nachalah" refers to a possession or heritage, often with a sense of permanence and divine provision. This distribution of land fulfills God's promise to Abraham and his descendants, symbolizing the faithfulness of God in providing for His people and establishing them in the Promised Land.

to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes are specifically mentioned as recipients of the land east of the Jordan River. This allocation is a fulfillment of the agreement made in Numbers 32, where these tribes requested to settle in this region due to its suitability for their livestock. Their inheritance reflects God's provision and the importance of honoring commitments within the community of God's people. It also illustrates the diversity within the unity of Israel, as each tribe receives its portion according to God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The servant of the LORD who led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He was instrumental in defeating the kings east of the Jordan and allocating their lands to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were led by Moses and later Joshua into the Promised Land.

3. Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River, as allocated by Moses.

4. The Land East of the Jordan
This region was conquered by Moses and the Israelites and included territories of defeated kings such as Sihon and Og.

5. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who guided and empowered Moses and the Israelites in their conquests and settlements.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Leadership
Moses is repeatedly referred to as "the servant of the LORD," highlighting the importance of faithful service to God in leadership roles. Leaders today are called to serve with integrity and obedience to God's commands.

Inheritance and Promise
The allocation of land to the tribes east of the Jordan is a fulfillment of God's promises. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises in their lives.

Unity and Cooperation
The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh cooperated with the rest of Israel in the conquest of Canaan, demonstrating the importance of unity and cooperation among God's people.

God's Sovereignty in Conquest
The victories over the kings east of the Jordan were attributed to God's power and guidance. Believers are reminded of God's sovereignty in their battles and challenges.

Legacy of Obedience
Moses' actions set a precedent for future generations. Our obedience to God can leave a lasting legacy for those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' role as "the servant of the LORD" challenge our understanding of leadership and service in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see the fulfillment of God's promises in our personal lives, similar to the inheritance given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh?

3. How can the unity and cooperation among the tribes of Israel serve as a model for the church today?

4. What battles or challenges are you currently facing where you need to rely on God's sovereignty and power?

5. How can we ensure that our actions and decisions today leave a positive legacy for future generations, as Moses did for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 3
Provides a detailed account of the conquests of Sihon and Og, the kings defeated by Moses, and the allocation of their lands to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Numbers 32
Describes the request of the tribes of Reuben and Gad to settle in the land east of the Jordan and Moses' agreement to their request, provided they assist in the conquest of Canaan.

Joshua 1
Reinforces the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the continuation of God's promises to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.