Joshua 13:7

Now therefore divide this land as an inheritance to the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh."

Study Bible

Now therefore
This phrase serves as a transition, indicating a shift from the previous instructions and narratives to a new directive. It implies urgency and a call to action. In the context of Joshua, it marks a pivotal moment where the focus moves from conquest to settlement. The Hebrew word often translated as "therefore" is "וְעַתָּה" (ve'atah), which can also mean "and now," suggesting a continuation of God's plan and promises.

divide this land
The act of dividing the land is significant in the biblical narrative as it fulfills God's promise to Abraham regarding the inheritance of the land by his descendants (Genesis 15:18-21). The Hebrew word for "divide" is "חָלַק" (chalak), which means to apportion or distribute. This division is not merely a physical allocation but a spiritual and covenantal act, signifying God's faithfulness and the establishment of Israel's identity as a nation.

as an inheritance
The concept of inheritance in the Bible is deeply rooted in the idea of a divine gift. The Hebrew word "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah) refers to a possession or heritage that is passed down through generations. This inheritance is not earned but given by God, emphasizing grace and divine provision. It also underscores the permanence of God's promise, as the land is to be held by the tribes of Israel perpetually.

to the nine tribes
The mention of the nine tribes refers to the tribes of Israel that were to receive their portion of the land west of the Jordan River. Historically, these tribes include Judah, Simeon, Benjamin, Dan, Ephraim, Naphtali, Zebulun, Issachar, and Asher. Each tribe's inheritance was determined by lot, as described in Numbers 26:55-56, symbolizing God's sovereign choice and order.

and the half-tribe of Manasseh
The half-tribe of Manasseh, along with Reuben and Gad, had already received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River (Numbers 32). The division of Manasseh into two half-tribes, one on each side of the Jordan, reflects the tribe's significant size and influence. This arrangement also highlights the unity and diversity within the nation of Israel, as they collectively fulfill God's covenantal promise.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and dividing it among the tribes.

2. Nine Tribes and the Half-Tribe of Manasseh
These are the tribes of Israel that were to receive their inheritance west of the Jordan River. The half-tribe of Manasseh, along with Reuben and Gad, had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It represents God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

4. Inheritance
The division of the land among the tribes of Israel, which was a fulfillment of God's covenant promise to Abraham.

5. Canaan
The land that the Israelites were to possess, which was inhabited by various Canaanite tribes before the conquest.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God's promises are sure and steadfast. Just as He fulfilled His promise to give Israel the land, He will fulfill His promises to us.

Inheritance in Christ
As the Israelites received a physical inheritance, believers receive a spiritual inheritance in Christ. Reflect on what it means to be co-heirs with Christ.

Leadership and Obedience
Joshua's role as a leader required obedience to God's commands. Consider how leadership in our lives requires us to follow God's guidance.

Divine Timing
The division of the land happened in God's perfect timing. Trust in God's timing for the promises He has made to you.

Community and Unity
The division of the land required cooperation among the tribes. Reflect on the importance of unity and community in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua 13:7 demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our personal walk with God?

2. In what ways does the concept of inheritance in Joshua 13:7 parallel the spiritual inheritance we have in Christ?

3. What can we learn from Joshua's leadership in dividing the land that applies to our roles in leadership today?

4. How does the division of the land among the tribes of Israel illustrate the importance of unity and cooperation within the church?

5. Reflect on a promise from God that you are waiting to see fulfilled. How does Joshua 13:7 encourage you to trust in God's timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:7
God's promise to Abraham about giving his descendants the land of Canaan, which is being fulfilled in Joshua 13:7.

Numbers 34:13-29
Details the boundaries of the land and the leaders appointed to distribute the inheritance among the tribes.

Deuteronomy 1:8
Moses reminds the Israelites of God's promise to give them the land, urging them to take possession of it.

Hebrews 4:8-10
Discusses the rest that Joshua provided, which is a foreshadowing of the ultimate rest found in Christ.