Joshua 14:2

Their inheritance was assigned by lot for the nine and a half tribes, as the LORD had commanded through Moses.

Study Bible

Their inheritance
The term "inheritance" in this context refers to the land that the Israelites were to receive as their permanent possession. In Hebrew, the word is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which signifies a heritage or possession passed down through generations. This concept of inheritance is deeply rooted in the covenantal promises God made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, emphasizing the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises to His people. It also underscores the idea that the land is not merely a possession but a divine gift, a sacred trust to be stewarded according to God's laws.

was assigned by lot
The use of "lot" (Hebrew: "גוֹרָל" - goral) in the distribution of the land indicates a process that was believed to be guided by divine providence. Casting lots was a common practice in ancient Israel for making decisions, reflecting a belief that God controlled the outcome. This method ensured that the division of the land was impartial and divinely ordained, removing human bias and emphasizing God's sovereignty in the allocation of the land.

for the nine and a half tribes
This phrase refers to the tribes of Israel that were to receive their inheritance west of the Jordan River. Historically, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan. The "nine and a half tribes" thus highlights the continuation of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Israel. It also reflects the unity and diversity within the nation, as each tribe received a portion of the land according to God's plan.

as the LORD had commanded
The phrase underscores the divine authority behind the distribution of the land. The Hebrew word for "commanded" is "צִוָּה" (tzivah), which conveys a sense of authoritative instruction. This highlights the obedience of the Israelites to God's directives, as well as the role of God as the ultimate lawgiver and leader of His people. It serves as a reminder that the land distribution was not a human decision but a fulfillment of God's command.

through Moses
Moses, as the servant of the LORD, was the mediator of God's commands to the people of Israel. This phrase emphasizes the continuity of God's plan from the time of Moses to the leadership of Joshua. It reflects the faithfulness of Moses in conveying God's instructions and the importance of adhering to the divine plan. Moses' role as a prophet and leader is affirmed, showing that the inheritance of the land was part of the larger narrative of God's redemptive history for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and overseeing the distribution of the land among the tribes.

2. The Nine and a Half Tribes
Refers to the tribes of Israel that received their inheritance west of the Jordan River. This includes all tribes except Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who received their inheritance east of the Jordan.

3. Moses
The servant of the LORD who led the Israelites out of Egypt and through the wilderness. He was given the command by God regarding the distribution of the land.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who promised the land to Abraham's descendants and directed its distribution.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

Divine Sovereignty in Allocation
The use of lots in distributing the land underscores God's sovereignty and His direct involvement in the affairs of His people. Believers can trust that God is in control of their circumstances and decisions.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
Joshua and the Israelites' adherence to God's instructions through Moses demonstrates the importance of obedience to God's Word. Christians are called to follow God's commands as revealed in Scripture.

Unity and Fairness in Community
The distribution by lot ensured fairness and prevented disputes among the tribes. In the church, believers are encouraged to seek unity and fairness, valuing each member's role and contribution.

Inheritance in Christ
Just as the Israelites received a physical inheritance, believers have a spiritual inheritance in Christ. This inheritance is secure and eternal, offering hope and assurance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of casting lots for the distribution of land reflect God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our decision-making today?

2. In what ways does the obedience of Joshua and the Israelites to God's commands through Moses serve as a model for our own obedience to Scripture?

3. How can the principle of fairness and unity in the distribution of the land be applied to relationships and responsibilities within the church community?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the Israelites' inheritance of the Promised Land and the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ?

5. How does understanding God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel encourage us in trusting His promises in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 26:52-56
This passage details the command given to Moses regarding the distribution of the land by lot, emphasizing the divine guidance in the allocation process.

Proverbs 16:33
This verse highlights the belief that the casting of lots is under God's sovereign control, reinforcing the idea that the land distribution was divinely ordained.

Acts 1:24-26
The apostles cast lots to choose a replacement for Judas Iscariot, showing the continued use of lots in seeking God's will in the New Testament.