Joshua 22:7

(To the half-tribe of Manasseh Moses had given land in Bashan, and to the other half Joshua gave land on the west side of the Jordan among their brothers.) When Joshua sent them to their homes he blessed them,

Study Bible

To the half-tribe of Manasseh Moses had given land in Bashan
Moses allocated land to the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, a region east of the Jordan River. Bashan was known for its fertile land and strong cities, such as Ashtaroth and Edrei. This allocation fulfilled part of the promise to the descendants of Joseph, as Manasseh was one of his sons. The division of land east of the Jordan was significant because it demonstrated God's faithfulness in providing for all tribes, even those not settling in Canaan proper. This allocation also highlights the leadership of Moses in establishing the tribes before his death.

and to the other half Joshua gave land on the west side of the Jordan among their brothers
Joshua, as Moses' successor, continued the distribution of the Promised Land. The other half of the tribe of Manasseh received their inheritance west of the Jordan, integrating them with the other tribes in Canaan. This division ensured that the tribe of Manasseh had a presence on both sides of the Jordan, symbolizing unity and cooperation among the tribes. It also reflects the broader theme of God's provision and the fulfillment of His promises to the patriarchs, as seen in Genesis 48:19, where Jacob prophesied that Manasseh would become a great people.

When Joshua sent them to their homes he blessed them
Joshua's blessing upon sending the tribes to their homes signifies a formal and spiritual acknowledgment of their service and faithfulness. The act of blessing is a recurring biblical theme, often associated with imparting God's favor and protection. Joshua's leadership is marked by his adherence to God's commands and his role as a spiritual leader, similar to Moses. This blessing also serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, emphasizing obedience and faithfulness as keys to receiving God's continued blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Half-Tribe of Manasseh
This tribe was unique in that it was divided, with one half receiving land in Bashan (east of the Jordan) and the other half receiving land west of the Jordan.

2. Moses
The leader who initially allocated land to the half-tribe of Manasseh in Bashan, demonstrating his role in the early distribution of the Promised Land.

3. Joshua
The successor of Moses who continued the distribution of land, giving the other half of the tribe of Manasseh their inheritance west of the Jordan.

4. Bashan
A fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its rich pastures and strong cities, given to the half-tribe of Manasseh by Moses.

5. Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary in Israel's history, symbolizing the division between the lands east and west of the river.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The division of the tribe of Manasseh across the Jordan River illustrates how God's people can be united in purpose despite geographical and tribal differences. This calls for unity in the body of Christ today, transcending denominational and cultural boundaries.

Faithfulness to Promises
The allocation of land to the half-tribe of Manasseh fulfills God's promises to the patriarchs. Believers are reminded of God's faithfulness and are encouraged to trust in His promises.

Blessing and Sending
Joshua's blessing as he sends the tribes back to their tents signifies the importance of blessing others as they embark on their journeys. Christians are called to be a blessing to others in their communities and workplaces.

Obedience and Reward
The tribes' obedience in helping conquer the land before returning to their inheritance serves as a model of faithfulness and the rewards that follow. Believers are encouraged to remain obedient to God's calling.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the division of the tribe of Manasseh across the Jordan River reflect the unity and diversity within the body of Christ today?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises in our own lives, as seen in the allocation of land to the tribes?

3. How can we be a blessing to others in our daily interactions, following Joshua's example of blessing the tribes?

4. What are some areas in our lives where we need to demonstrate obedience to God's calling, and how can we expect to see His rewards?

5. How does the account of the half-tribe of Manasseh relate to the broader account of God's covenant with Israel, and what lessons can we draw for our covenant relationship with God through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 32
This chapter provides the background on the request of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, highlighting their agreement to help their fellow Israelites conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance.

Deuteronomy 3
Details Moses' allocation of land to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

Joshua 1
Joshua's charge to the tribes, including the half-tribe of Manasseh, to assist in the conquest of Canaan, reinforcing the unity and shared mission of the Israelites.