◄ Joshua 16 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Ephraim’s Inheritance 1The allotment for the descendants of Joseph extended from the Jordan at Jericho to the waters of Jericho on the east, through the wilderness that goes up from Jericho into the hill country of Bethel. 2It went on from Bethel (that is, Luz)a and proceeded to the border of the Archites in Ataroth. 3Then it descended westward to the border of the Japhletites as far as the border of Lower Beth-horon and on to Gezer, and it ended at the Sea.b 4So Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph, received their inheritance. 5This was the territory of the descendants of Ephraim by their clans: The border of their inheritance went from Ataroth-addar in the east to Upper Beth-horon 6and out toward the Sea. From Michmethath on the north it turned eastward toward Taanath-shiloh and passed by it to Janoah on the east. 7From Janoah it went down to Ataroth and Naarah, and then reached Jericho and came out at the Jordan. 8From Tappuah the border went westward to the Brook of Kanah and ended at the Sea. This was the inheritance of the clans of the tribe of Ephraim, 9along with all the cities and villages set apart for the descendants of Ephraim within the inheritance of Manasseh. 10But they did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer. So the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites to this day, but they are forced laborers. Footnotes: 2 a LXX (See also Joshua 18:13); Hebrew from Bethel to Luz 3 b That is, the Mediterranean Sea, also called the Great Sea; also in verses 6 and 8 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 16 Summary Ephraim's Inheritance Verses 1–4 – The Territory of the Sons of Joseph Joshua recounts how the lot falls for Joseph’s descendants. Starting at the Jordan near Jericho, the border rises through the wilderness to the hill country of Bethel, arcs west toward the coastal plain, and reaches the Great Sea. Both Ephraim and Manasseh share this overall allotment, receiving the rich central spine of Canaan. Verses 5–10 – The Borders and Challenges of Ephraim Ephraim’s specific inheritance branches out from Ataroth-addar, circles north of Michmethath, angles east to Taanath-shiloh and Janoah, dips to the Jordan, then swings west to the Brook of Kanah and the Mediterranean. Ephraim also gains cities embedded inside Manasseh’s territory. Yet verse 10 records a troubling note: “Yet they did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer; so to this day the Canaanites live among the Ephraimites, but they are forced laborers” (Joshua 16:10). This passage recounts the fulfilment of God's promise to the descendants of Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh, as they receive their long-awaited inheritance - a vast territory stretching from the Jordan at Jericho to the Sea. However, their blessing is mixed with a challenge, as the Canaanites continue to dwell among them. Historical Setting • Timeframe: Soon after Israel’s entry into the land (late 15th century BC by a conservative count). • Leadership: Joshua oversees the casting of lots at Shiloh (Joshua 18:8–10). • Context: The major military campaigns (chs. 6–12) are over; the focus shifts to settling and cultivating the land promised to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). Geographical Highlights • Hill Country of Ephraim: Elevated, fertile, and well-watered—a natural fortress controlling north-south travel. • Bethel (modern Beitin): Once called Luz (Genesis 28:19); significant for Jacob’s vision and later Israelite worship. • Beth-horon: Two cities (Upper and Lower) guarding the ascent from the coast; key in Joshua 10 and later Solomon’s fortifications (1 Kings 9:17). • Gezer: A strategic Canaanite stronghold at the intersection of trade routes; failure to remove its inhabitants becomes a lingering issue (Judges 1:29). Tribal Significance • Double Portion Fulfilled: Joseph’s two sons each become a tribe (Genesis 48:5). • Prophetic Fulfillment: Jacob pronounced Ephraim the greater (Genesis 48:19); Ephraim receives prime real estate at Israel’s heart. • National Influence: Future leaders from Ephraim include Joshua himself (Numbers 13:8) and later Jeroboam I (1 Kings 11:26). Connections to Earlier Scripture 1. Numbers 26:28-37 lists Ephraimite clans, matching the clan-by-clan inheritance language in Joshua 16:5. 2. Deuteronomy 33:13-17 records Moses’ blessing on Joseph’s land—“with the choicest gifts of the ancient mountains.” The hill country of Ephraim fits that description. 3. Genesis 50:24-25: Joseph’s faith that God would “bring you up” undergirds the allotment narrative. Archaeological Insights • Bethel: Excavations reveal Late Bronze Age occupation layers, fortifications, and cultic installations. • Gezer: The famous “Gezer Calendar” (10th century BC) attests to agricultural scheduling in the region; earlier Canaanite destruction layers align with conquest accounts, yet occupation continues—supporting Joshua 16:10. • Tappuah/Tell el-Moghanna and the Brook of Kanah: Surveys show settlement density, illustrating why the boundary followed natural watercourses. Lessons on Obedience and Compromise 1. Partial Obedience: Ephraim’s failure at Gezer foreshadows the broader pattern in Judges—small compromises become national stumbling blocks (Judges 2:1-3). 2. Work Versus Warfare: Forced labor seems expedient, but it leaves spiritual footholds for idolatry (Deuteronomy 20:16-18). 3. Leadership Responsibility: Joshua, an Ephraimite, assigns rich territory to his own tribe yet records their shortfall honestly—modeling transparent leadership. Prophetic Echoes • Hosea repeatedly addresses Ephraim’s later rebellion (Hosea 4:17; 11:3-12). The seed of compromise in Joshua 16 grows into future unfaithfulness. • Isaiah 7:8 predicts Ephraim’s demise within sixty-five years, highlighting how early disobedience can have lasting consequences. New Testament Parallels • Samaria occupies much of former Ephraim. Jesus’ route through Samaria (John 4) takes Him across ancient Ephraimite soil, offering “living water” where earlier wells stood. • Stephen, another Ephraimite by ancestry, is chosen as a servant-leader (Acts 6:5). His sermon revisits Joseph’s account (Acts 7:9-16), tying the tribe’s past to Israel’s Messiah. Practical Takeaways • God’s gifts can be squandered by half-hearted follow-through. • The most desirable territory still requires diligent, faithful effort to secure. • Honest record-keeping of success and failure, as Joshua models, keeps a community humble and dependent on God. Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 48:21-22 Jacob's blessing to Joseph, foretelling the inheritance of his sons. Deuteronomy 7:1-2 God's command to drive out the inhabitants of the land completely. Psalm 16:5-6 A reminder of the pleasant boundaries God sets for us. Ephesians 1:11-14 Our inheritance in Christ as believers. Teaching Points Inheritance of the Promised Land Joshua 16:1-4 describes the allotment of land to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. This inheritance is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Specific Boundaries Verses 5-9 detail the specific boundaries of the land given to the tribe of Ephraim. These boundaries were divinely appointed and significant for maintaining order and identity among the tribes. Incomplete Obedience In verse 10, we see that the Ephraimites did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer. This incomplete obedience would later lead to challenges and influences contrary to God's commands. God's Faithfulness The chapter underscores God's faithfulness in providing for His people, as He had promised. The land was a tangible sign of His covenant with Israel. Practical Applications Recognize God's Boundaries Just as God set boundaries for the tribes, we should recognize and respect the boundaries He sets in our lives for our well-being. Complete Obedience Strive for complete obedience to God's commands, understanding that partial obedience can lead to future struggles. Trust in God's Promises Trust that God is faithful to fulfill His promises, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Value Your Inheritance Appreciate the spiritual inheritance we have in Christ, which is far greater than any earthly possession. People 1. Joseph Although not directly mentioned in the text of Joshua 16, Joseph is the patriarch of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. The chapter discusses the inheritance given to his descendants. Joseph's name in Hebrew is יוֹסֵף (Yosef), meaning "He will add." 2. Ephraim The chapter refers to the tribe of Ephraim, which is one of the two tribes descended from Joseph. Ephraim was the younger son of Joseph, and his name in Hebrew is אֶפְרָיִם (Ephraim), meaning "fruitful." 3. Manasseh While the focus of Joshua 16 is on the land allotted to Ephraim, Manasseh is also mentioned as the other tribe descended from Joseph. Manasseh was Joseph's elder son, and his name in Hebrew is מְנַשֶּׁה (Menasheh), meaning "causing to forget." Places 1. Ataroth-addar This location is mentioned as a boundary point. It is situated near the border between Ephraim and Benjamin. 2. Upper Beth-horon A town on the border of Ephraim, known for its strategic location on a hill, which played a significant role in various biblical battles. 3. Lower Beth-horon Another town on the border of Ephraim, located downhill from Upper Beth-horon, forming part of the boundary. 4. Gezer A significant Canaanite city that was later given to the Levites. It is mentioned as part of the boundary of Ephraim. 5. Michmethath A place on the northern boundary of Ephraim, near Shechem. 6. Taanath-shiloh A location on the eastern boundary of Ephraim, possibly near the site of Shiloh, where the tabernacle was located. 7. Janoah A town on the eastern boundary of Ephraim, further defining the territory. 8. Ataroth Another location mentioned in the boundary description, distinct from Ataroth-addar. 9. Naarah A place on the eastern boundary of Ephraim, contributing to the delineation of the territory. 10. Jericho Although not within the territory of Ephraim, it is mentioned as a reference point for the boundary. 11. Jordan The river that serves as a significant geographical marker, forming part of the eastern boundary. Events 1. Inheritance of the Tribe of Joseph The chapter begins by describing the allotment of land for the descendants of Joseph, which includes the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. The passage outlines the boundaries of their inheritance. The Hebrew term "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah) is used for "inheritance," emphasizing the concept of a divinely appointed portion of land. 2. Boundary Description for Ephraim The text provides a detailed description of the territory assigned to the tribe of Ephraim. It starts from Ataroth-addar and extends to Upper Beth-horon. The boundaries are significant as they define the specific area that Ephraim would occupy. 3. Cities within Ephraim's Territory The chapter notes that certain cities within the territory of Manasseh were given to Ephraim. This reflects the close relationship between the two tribes, both descendants of Joseph. 4. Failure to Drive Out the Canaanites The chapter concludes by mentioning that the Ephraimites did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer. Instead, the Canaanites continued to dwell in the land, subject to forced labor. This event highlights a recurring theme in the book of Joshua, where the Israelites fail to fully obey God's command to remove the inhabitants of the land. Lessons from Joshua 16 1. Embrace Your Inheritance In Joshua 16, we see the allotment of land to the descendants of Joseph, specifically the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. This reminds us of the importance of embracing the inheritance God has prepared for us. Just as the Israelites received their portion, we too have a spiritual inheritance through Christ. As Ephesians 1:11 states, "In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will." 2. Trust in God's Promises The division of the land was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This teaches us to trust in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them. As 2 Corinthians 1:20 assures us, "For all the promises of God are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through Him, our 'Amen' is spoken to the glory of God." 3. The Importance of Obedience The Israelites were tasked with driving out the Canaanites from their land, yet they did not fully obey. This partial obedience serves as a reminder that God desires our full commitment. As James 1:22 encourages, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." 4. Unity in Diversity The chapter highlights the unity between the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, despite their distinct identities. This unity in diversity is a beautiful picture of the body of Christ, where each member plays a unique role. As 1 Corinthians 12:12 says, "Just as the body is one and has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ." 5. The Role of Leadership Joshua's leadership in distributing the land underscores the importance of godly leadership. Leaders are called to guide others in accordance with God's will. Hebrews 13:17 reminds us, "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account." 6. God's Sovereignty in Our Lives The specific boundaries set for each tribe demonstrate God's sovereignty and meticulous planning. He knows what is best for us and orchestrates our lives accordingly. Proverbs 16:9 affirms, "A man's heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." 7. The Consequences of Compromise The Israelites' failure to completely drive out the Canaanites led to future challenges. This teaches us the dangers of compromise in our spiritual walk. Galatians 5:9 warns, "A little leaven leavens the whole batch." 8. The Blessing of Contentment Each tribe received a portion of land, teaching us the value of contentment with what God provides. Philippians 4:11 encourages, "I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances." 9. The Call to Persevere Despite challenges, the Israelites were called to persevere in claiming their inheritance. Similarly, we are called to persevere in our faith journey. Hebrews 12:1 exhorts, "Let us run with endurance the race set out for us." 10. The Legacy of Faith The chapter concludes with the tribes settling in their allotted lands, a testament to the legacy of faith passed down through generations. We are reminded to leave a legacy of faith for those who come after us. As 2 Timothy 1:5 reflects, "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also." May these lessons from Joshua 16 inspire and encourage you in your walk with the Lord, as you embrace His promises and live out your faith with joy and purpose. Topics 1. The Allotment for Ephraim and Manasseh Joshua 16 begins with the description of the land allotment for the descendants of Joseph, specifically the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. The passage outlines the boundaries and specific regions allocated to these tribes. This reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Joseph's descendants, emphasizing the importance of inheritance and divine provision. 2. The Boundaries of Ephraim Verses 5-9 detail the specific boundaries of the territory assigned to the tribe of Ephraim. The passage lists various geographical markers and cities, highlighting the precision and care in the distribution of the land. This underscores the significance of land as a tangible sign of God's covenant with Israel. 3. The Incomplete Conquest Verse 10 notes that the Ephraimites did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer. Instead, the Canaanites continued to dwell among them, subjected to forced labor. This incomplete obedience to God's command to fully possess the land serves as a reminder of the consequences of partial obedience and the ongoing struggle between faithfulness and compromise. Themes 1. Inheritance and Land Allotment Joshua 16 details the specific inheritance of the descendants of Joseph, particularly the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. The chapter begins with the description of their territorial boundaries: "The allotment for the descendants of Joseph extended from the Jordan at Jericho, east of the waters of Jericho, through the wilderness and into the hill country of Bethel" (Joshua 16:1). This theme emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites regarding the land, highlighting the importance of divine providence and covenant faithfulness. 2. Divine Providence and Fulfillment of Promises The chapter underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs by providing their descendants with a land inheritance. The Hebrew root word for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) signifies a possession or heritage, reflecting the divine gift of land as a fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 3. Tribal Identity and Unity The passage highlights the distinct identity of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, descendants of Joseph, while also emphasizing their unity as part of the larger community of Israel. The specific mention of their boundaries and cities (Joshua 16:5-9) serves to reinforce their unique role and contribution within the nation of Israel. 4. Incomplete Obedience and Coexistence with Canaanites The chapter concludes with a note on the incomplete conquest of the land: "But they did not drive out the Canaanites living in Gezer; so to this day the Canaanites live among the Ephraimites, but they are forced laborers" (Joshua 16:10). This theme highlights the Israelites' partial obedience and the resulting coexistence with the Canaanites, which would later lead to spiritual and cultural challenges. The Hebrew root for "drive out" (יָרַשׁ, yarash) implies a complete dispossession, which was not fully achieved, indicating a lapse in following God's command. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom to recognize and respect the boundaries God has set in your life. Ask for strength and courage to fully obey God's commands, even when it is difficult. Thank God for His faithfulness and the spiritual inheritance we have through Jesus Christ. Pray for discernment to identify areas of incomplete obedience and seek God's guidance to address them. As we conclude this study, may we be encouraged to trust in God's promises, respect His boundaries, and pursue complete obedience in our walk with Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do the boundary descriptions in Joshua 16:1–4 align with archaeological findings that suggest inconsistent Israelite settlement patterns in this region? 2. Why does Joshua 16:5–9 list towns that some excavations claim were never fully occupied by Israelites at that time? 3. How can Jericho be mentioned again (Joshua 16:1) if Joshua 6 supposedly left the city in total ruins? 4. Why does Joshua 16:10 say the Canaanites in Gezer became forced labor, yet 1 Kings 9:15–16 seems to contradict who controlled Gezer’s fate? 5. If God promised the land to Israel, why were the Ephraimites unable to drive out the Canaanites (Joshua 16:10), raising questions about divine promises? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does the detailed description of the land allotted to the descendants of Joseph symbolize in the context of God's promises? 2. How does the division of the land among Ephraim and Manasseh reflect the importance of fairness and justice in the Bible? 3. What does the passage reveal about the geography and landmarks of the ancient land of Canaan? 4. How does the concept of "forced laborers" align or conflict with our modern understanding of justice and human rights? 5. Why might the Ephraimites have allowed the Canaanites to dwell among them, and what consequences might this have had? 6. What might be the reasons the Ephraimites did not drive out the Canaanites from Gezer? 7. How does this passage reflect the process of compromise and assimilation between different cultures and peoples in biblical times? 8. How does the inheritance of land correspond to God's promises to the Israelites, and what does this mean for us today? 9. How can the Ephraimites' decision to let the Canaanites live among them serve as a cautionary tale for Christians today? 10. What does this passage teach us about the potential consequences of incomplete obedience to God's commands? 11. How can we apply the lessons from Ephraim and Manasseh's inheritance of their land to our own understanding of inheritance and property today? 12. What challenges might the Ephraimites have faced in sharing their land with the Canaanites, and how can this reflect in our modern context? 13. How does the principle of obedience play out in this text, and how can we apply this to our lives today? 14. What do you think are some possible reasons for the specific demarcation of the territories among the Israelite tribes? 15. What does this passage reveal about the relationship between the Israelites and the Canaanites, and what does this tell us about historical relations between different peoples? 16. What does the role of the Canaanites as "forced laborers" tell us about the socio-economic structures of ancient Israelite society? 17. How do the Ephraimites' actions mirror ways we might tolerate or coexist with things we know are against God's will? 18. In today's society, how should we handle situations where we must live amongst those who do not share our beliefs or values? 19. How does this passage challenge us to consider the impact of our decisions and actions on future generations? 20. In what ways does this text prompt us to reflect on our responsibility to fully follow through on God's commands? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions