Joshua 13 7

Joshua 13:7 kjv

Now therefore divide this land for an inheritance unto the nine tribes, and the half tribe of Manasseh,

Joshua 13:7 nkjv

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

Joshua 13:7 niv

and divide it as an inheritance among the nine tribes and half of the tribe of Manasseh."

Joshua 13:7 esv

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

Joshua 13:7 nlt

Include all this territory as Israel's possession when you divide this land among the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh."

Joshua 13 verses

Joshua 13 7 Meaning

This verse constitutes a direct divine command given to Joshua, instructing him to proceed with the specific allocation of the remaining un-conquered, yet promised, land west of the Jordan River. It mandates the division of this territory as a perpetual inheritance for nine of the tribes of Israel and the remaining half-tribe of Manasseh, thus fulfilling God’s ancient covenant promise regarding the Promised Land.

Joshua 13 7 Context

Joshua 13 marks a significant transition in the book, moving from the accounts of military conquest to the crucial task of land distribution. The chapter opens with the Lord addressing an aging Joshua, acknowledging that despite many victories, a considerable portion of the land, particularly in the northern and coastal areas (Josh 13:2-6), remained to be fully possessed. However, God emphasizes His commitment to drive out these remaining inhabitants (Josh 13:6), implying that the land, though not yet fully cleared, was conceptually part of Israel’s divine inheritance and could therefore be divided. Prior to this verse, the chapter has detailed the land already allotted to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan River (Josh 13:8-33). Verse 7, therefore, focuses on the critical next step: the formal apportionment of the remaining land on the west side of the Jordan to the rest of the tribes, thereby bringing the physical manifestation of God's covenant promises closer to completion for His people.

Joshua 13 7 Word analysis

• Now therefore: This phrase functions as a logical transition and an imperative conclusion. It connects the previous divine instruction regarding the remaining land (Josh 13:1-6) to the immediate command for action. It signals a move from acknowledgment of the task to its concrete implementation.
• divide: (Hebrew: ḥilleq - חֵלֶק). This verb means "to divide," "to apportion," or "to share out." It implies a precise, orderly, and official allocation, often involving lots (as detailed later in Joshua). This is not a suggestion but a definitive command, highlighting the meticulous nature of God's plan for His people’s inheritance.
• this land: Refers specifically to the territory west of the Jordan River that had not yet been formally allotted to any tribe, including portions still inhabited by Canaanite peoples. While some of it was conquered (Josh 11:23), not all enemy strongholds were eliminated, yet God decrees its division, confirming His ownership and gift to Israel.
• for an inheritance: (Hebrew: naḥăla - נַחֲלָה). This term denotes a permanent, inherited possession or patrimony. In the biblical context, it refers to land received as a divine grant, passed down through generations. It underscores that the land was not merely conquered territory but a promised blessing, given by God as a lasting legacy to His covenant people. This term also carried legal weight, ensuring the inalienable nature of tribal and family land ownership within Israel.
• unto the nine tribes: Refers to Judah, Simeon, Benjamin, Dan, Ephraim, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, and Naphtali. These tribes had not yet received their designated portions.
• and the half tribe of Manasseh: Specifically refers to the western half-tribe of Manasseh, as the eastern half-tribe had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan along with Reuben and Gad (Josh 13:29-31). This specification clarifies which half of the tribe is still to be accounted for, emphasizing precision in the divine instruction.
• words-group: "divide this land for an inheritance": This phrase highlights the ultimate purpose of Israel's conquest—not mere territorial expansion or plunder, but the reception of God's promised inheritance. It underscores that the land was a divine gift, foundational to their identity and covenant relationship with God. The act of dividing ensured justice and permanence according to God's pre-established order (cf. Num 26:52-56).

Joshua 13 7 Bonus section

This verse reflects a key theological principle: God’s promises are guaranteed, even when their full realization requires ongoing human effort and trust. Though "much land remained" (Josh 13:1), the command to "divide this land for an inheritance" was an act of faith, affirming that God’s Word concerning their complete possession would prevail. This highlights the synergy between divine sovereignty and human responsibility; God grants the inheritance, but Israel must act to receive and fully possess it. Furthermore, the land as an "inheritance" carries a strong redemptive theme. Just as physical land was promised and delivered to ancient Israel, believers in Christ are promised an eternal, spiritual inheritance, not gained through conquest but through the work of Christ (Eph 1:11, 1 Pet 1:4). This earthly inheritance in Joshua thus foreshadows the heavenly reality that awaits those who are in Christ. It also serves as a strong reminder of God's perfect justice and order; He does not just give a blessing but organizes its precise distribution.

Joshua 13 7 Commentary

Joshua 13:7 encapsulates a pivotal moment in Israel’s journey: the transition from conquest to settlement. Despite acknowledging that large portions of land were yet unconquered, God, through Joshua, commands the division of the entire promised territory. This demonstrates God’s unwavering faithfulness to His covenant, for He gives the land as a permanent, rightful "inheritance" to His people, irrespective of the ongoing challenges. The instruction to divide it among the "nine tribes and the half tribe of Manasseh" specifies the beneficiaries who are to receive their designated portions west of the Jordan, distinct from the tribes already settled to the east. This detailed instruction underscores the divine meticulousness in fulfilling promises, ensuring each family and tribe receives their assigned share. It signifies not only a divine mandate but also a divine enablement for Israel to truly inhabit and steward the land given to them, thus setting the stage for their national identity and worship as the people of God within their divinely appointed borders. This also serves as a polemic against the instability and contested claims of pagan lands, emphasizing God’s stable and orderly provision for His people.