Joshua 23:4

See, I have allotted as an inheritance to your tribes these remaining nations, including all the nations I have already cut off, from the Jordan westward to the Great Sea.

Study Bible

See, I have allotted to you
This phrase begins with a call to attention, "See," which in Hebrew is "רְאוּ" (re'u), urging the Israelites to recognize the significance of what follows. The act of allotting, "I have allotted," is rooted in the Hebrew word "נָתַן" (natan), meaning to give or assign. This reflects God's sovereign distribution of the land, emphasizing His authority and the fulfillment of His promises to the patriarchs. Historically, this allocation of land was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness and a reminder of the covenant He made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

as an inheritance
The term "inheritance" in Hebrew is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which conveys not just a physical possession but a divinely ordained gift that is passed down through generations. This inheritance is not merely a piece of land but a sacred trust, symbolizing the Israelites' unique relationship with God. It underscores the idea that the land is a perpetual possession, meant to be cherished and preserved according to God's laws.

for your tribes
The phrase "for your tribes" highlights the communal and familial aspect of the inheritance. The land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel, each receiving a portion according to their size and needs. This division ensured that every tribe had a stake in the Promised Land, fostering unity and shared responsibility. It also reflects the organizational structure of Israelite society, where tribal identity played a crucial role in governance and religious life.

these nations that remain
"These nations that remain" refers to the Canaanite peoples who were still present in the land despite Israel's conquests. The Hebrew word for nations, "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), often denotes foreign or Gentile peoples. This phrase serves as a reminder of the incomplete conquest and the ongoing challenge for Israel to fully possess the land. It also foreshadows the potential for future conflict and the need for vigilance in maintaining their distinct identity and faithfulness to God.

to be an inheritance for your tribes
Reiterating the concept of inheritance, this phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's promise. The land is not just a temporary possession but a lasting heritage meant to be enjoyed by future generations. It calls the Israelites to steward the land wisely, adhering to God's commandments to ensure its prosperity and their continued blessing.

from the Jordan
The Jordan River, "יַרְדֵּן" (Yarden) in Hebrew, is a significant geographical and spiritual landmark. It served as the eastern boundary of the Promised Land and was the site of Israel's miraculous crossing into Canaan. The mention of the Jordan evokes memories of God's past deliverance and the beginning of their new life in the land He provided.

with all the nations I have cut off
This phrase acknowledges God's role in the victories over the Canaanite nations. The Hebrew word for "cut off," "כָּרַת" (karat), implies a decisive and complete action. It underscores God's power and faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to give Israel the land. This divine intervention serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of relying on Him for future successes.

as far as the Great Sea in the west
The "Great Sea" refers to the Mediterranean Sea, which marked the western boundary of the Promised Land. This expansive territory, from the Jordan to the Mediterranean, illustrates the vastness of God's provision. It symbolizes the abundance and richness of the inheritance God has given His people, encouraging them to trust in His continued guidance and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel who succeeded Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land. He is delivering a farewell address to the Israelites in this chapter.

2. The Tribes of Israel
The twelve tribes that descended from the sons of Jacob, each receiving a portion of the Promised Land as their inheritance.

3. The Nations
Refers to the remaining Canaanite nations that were not yet fully conquered by the Israelites. These nations were to be driven out as part of God's command.

4. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary for the Israelites, marking the eastern border of the Promised Land.

5. The Great Sea
Known today as the Mediterranean Sea, it marked the western boundary of the land promised to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness in Inheritance
God is faithful to His promises, as seen in the allotment of the land to Israel. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises in their lives.

Obedience to God's Commands
Just as Israel was commanded to drive out the nations, believers are called to remove sin and idolatry from their lives, ensuring that nothing hinders their relationship with God.

Spiritual Inheritance
The physical inheritance of land for Israel points to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ. This includes eternal life and the blessings of being part of God's family.

Boundaries and Blessings
The boundaries of the Promised Land were set by God, symbolizing His provision and protection. Believers are encouraged to recognize and respect the boundaries God sets in their lives for their good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's role as a leader in distributing the land reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. What are the spiritual "nations" or obstacles in your life that God is calling you to overcome, and how can you apply the principles of obedience found in Joshua 23:4?

3. In what ways does the concept of inheritance in Joshua 23:4 parallel the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ?

4. How do the geographical boundaries mentioned in Joshua 23:4 serve as a metaphor for God's provision and protection in your life?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in fulfilling a promise. How can this encourage you to trust Him with current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7
This chapter outlines God's command to Israel to drive out the nations in the Promised Land, emphasizing the need for obedience and the dangers of idolatry.

Judges 2
Describes the consequences of Israel's failure to fully drive out the Canaanite nations, leading to cycles of disobedience and oppression.

Psalm 16:5-6
Speaks of the Lord as the portion and inheritance of the believer, paralleling the physical inheritance of land with spiritual inheritance in God.