The "Description of the Remaining Land" refers to the territories that were yet to be conquered and distributed among the tribes of Israel during the time of Joshua. This topic is primarily addressed in the Book of Joshua, specifically in chapters 13 and 14. The narrative provides a detailed account of the land that remained to be possessed by the Israelites after their initial conquests in Canaan.

Biblical Context

After the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, had taken possession of significant portions of the Promised Land, there were still areas that had not been conquered. Joshua 13:1-7 outlines God's instructions to Joshua regarding these remaining territories. The Lord said to Joshua, "You are now old and advanced in years, and very much of the land remains to be possessed" (Joshua 13:1). This passage underscores the ongoing nature of the conquest and the need for continued faithfulness and effort by the Israelites.

Geographical Description

The remaining land included various regions inhabited by different peoples. Joshua 13:2-6 provides a detailed list of these areas:

1. The Regions of the Philistines and Geshurites: This included the territories along the Mediterranean coast, from the Shihor River east of Egypt to the border of Ekron in the north. The Philistines were a significant presence in this area, with their five principal cities: Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron.

2. The Land of the Canaanites: This encompassed the area from Arah of the Sidonians to Aphek, to the border of the Amorites.

3. The Land of the Gebalites: Located in the northern part of Canaan, near the region of Lebanon.

4. All Lebanon: From Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath.

5. The Hill Country: Extending from Lebanon to Misrephoth-maim, including all the Sidonians.

God promised to drive out the inhabitants of these regions before the Israelites, emphasizing His role in the conquest and the fulfillment of His covenant promises.

Tribal Allotments

Despite the land remaining to be conquered, God instructed Joshua to begin the process of allotting the land to the nine and a half tribes of Israel. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan River, as detailed in Joshua 13:8-33.

The allotment of the remaining land was to be done by casting lots, a practice that underscored the divine sovereignty in the distribution of the land. This process is further elaborated in Joshua 14-19, where the specific inheritances of each tribe are described.

Spiritual Significance

The description of the remaining land serves as a reminder of the Israelites' ongoing journey of faith and obedience. It highlights the necessity of relying on God's promises and power to overcome obstacles and fulfill His purposes. The narrative also underscores the importance of perseverance in the Christian life, as believers are called to continue pressing forward in their spiritual journey, trusting in God's provision and guidance.

The remaining land symbolizes the unfulfilled potential and the call to faithfulness in the life of the believer. Just as the Israelites were tasked with possessing the land, Christians are called to grow in their faith and lay hold of the spiritual inheritance promised in Christ.