Joshua 17:2

So this allotment was for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh--the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the other male descendants of the clans of Manasseh son of Joseph.

Study Bible

So this allotment
The term "allotment" refers to the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. In Hebrew, the word used is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which signifies an inheritance or possession. This concept is deeply rooted in the covenantal promise God made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, emphasizing the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises. The allotment is not just a physical distribution of land but a spiritual inheritance that signifies God's provision and blessing.

for the rest of the descendants of Manasseh
Manasseh was one of the sons of Joseph, and his descendants were divided into two groups: those who settled east of the Jordan and those who settled west. The phrase "the rest of the descendants" indicates the portion of the tribe that settled west of the Jordan. This division highlights the unique position of Manasseh, receiving a double portion, which reflects Joseph's special status among the tribes of Israel.

the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida
These names represent the family groups or clans within the tribe of Manasseh. Each name carries historical and genealogical significance, tracing back to the sons and grandsons of Manasseh. For instance, Abiezer is noted as the family from which Gideon, the judge, came (Judges 6:11). The mention of these clans underscores the importance of family lineage and the fulfillment of God's promises to each family unit within the tribe.

These are the male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph
The emphasis on "male descendants" reflects the patrilineal system of inheritance common in ancient Israel. This system ensured the continuity of family names and the preservation of tribal identity. Manasseh, as the son of Joseph, holds a significant place in Israel's history, as Joseph was a key figure in God's plan to preserve the Israelites during the famine in Egypt.

by their clans
The phrase "by their clans" indicates the organized structure within the tribe of Manasseh. Each clan had its own leadership and territory, which contributed to the overall governance and social structure of the tribe. This organization reflects the order and intentionality in God's distribution of the land, ensuring that each family had a place and a role within the larger community of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, descended from Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. The tribe was divided into two half-tribes, one on each side of the Jordan River.

2. Abiezer
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Gideon, a judge of Israel, was from this clan (Judges 6:11).

3. Helek
Another clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Little is known about this specific clan beyond its mention in the allotment of land.

4. Asriel
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Asriel was a son of Manasseh, and his descendants formed one of the clans.

5. Shechem
A significant city in biblical history, located in the hill country of Ephraim. It was a city of refuge and a Levitical city.

6. Hepher
A clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Zelophehad, who had no sons but only daughters, was from this clan (Numbers 27:1-11).

7. Shemida
Another clan within the tribe of Manasseh. Like the other clans, it was part of the division of land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Inheritance
The division of the land among the tribes of Israel, including the clans of Manasseh, demonstrates God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Believers can trust in God's promises for their lives.

Significance of Family and Heritage
The mention of specific clans underscores the importance of family and heritage in God's plan. Christians are encouraged to value their spiritual heritage and pass on their faith to future generations.

Role of Women in God's Plan
The account of Zelophehad's daughters, connected to the clan of Hepher, shows that God values the role of women in His covenant community. This challenges believers to recognize and honor the contributions of women in the church today.

Courage and Leadership
Gideon's account, from the clan of Abiezer, illustrates how God can use individuals from any background to lead and deliver His people. Christians are called to be courageous and obedient to God's calling.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the division of land among the tribes of Israel reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we honor and preserve our spiritual heritage in today's world?

3. How does the account of Zelophehad's daughters challenge traditional views on inheritance and the role of women in the church?

4. What lessons can we learn from Gideon's leadership and how can we apply them in our own lives?

5. How can understanding the historical and familial context of biblical passages enhance our study and application of Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
This chapter describes Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, and the adoption of these sons as his own, which set the stage for the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh.

Numbers 27:1-11
This passage recounts the account of Zelophehad's daughters, who were from the tribe of Manasseh, and their request for an inheritance, which led to a change in inheritance laws for Israel.

Judges 6:11-24
Gideon, from the clan of Abiezer, is called by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites, highlighting the significance of the clans within Manasseh.