Observations and Interpretation:
(1) The description of the allotment to Manasseh was different in the format than other tribes' allotment. It did not start with the borders until v.7. The descendents were mentioned in v.1-6 in the order of the land for the first born, then male, then female.So Joshua assigned them land among their uncles, as the LORD had commanded. 5 Manasseh was allotted ten shares of land, in addition to the land of Gilead and Bashan east of the Jordan, 6 for the daughters of Manasseh were assigned land among his sons.
God commanded to give the female descendents land and they got them. The land of Manasseh was allotted extra land because of them. They added blessings to their tribe.
Application: God has a different worldview different from the people at that time and culture. He did not give women the rights to own their land, but they added value to their community. Do we see ourselves with value? Do we give others blessings?
(2) The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh complained that their land allotted to them was too small for their huge population. However, the land was not too small, but their faith.
16 The descendants of Joseph said, “The whole hill country is inadequate for us, and the Canaanites living down in the valley in Beth Shean and its surrounding towns and in the Valley of Jezreel have chariots with iron-rimmed wheels.”
17 Joshua said to the family of Joseph—to both Ephraim and Manasseh: “You have many people and great military strength. You will not have just one tribal allotment. 18 ...You can conquer the Canaanites, though they have chariots with iron-rimmed wheels and are strong.”
Application: Joshua pointed out that: you have great military power, you could conquer your enemies even though they were strongs. What makes us lose our faith and courage? What are your iron-rimmed wheels?
Audrey
Comments