Joshua 17:5 - Ten parts fell to Manasseh, besides the land of Gilead and Bashan, which is beyond the Jordan;

Generated Verse: Joshua 17:5

What does "Joshua 17:5" mean?


This verse from Joshua 17:5 is part of the description of the land allocation to the tribe of Manasseh after the Israelites conquered Canaan. Let's break down what it means:

"Ten parts fell to Manasseh": This indicates that the tribe of Manasseh was allocated ten portions or districts of land within Canaan. This allocation of ten parts refers to land west of the Jordan River. Manasseh was a large tribe, and this division suggests that they were given a significant amount of territory.

"besides the land of Gilead and Bashan, which is beyond the Jordan;": This specifies that the ten parts mentioned above were in addition to land that Manasseh already controlled east of the Jordan River. The "land of Gilead and Bashan" were fertile and desirable areas conquered earlier in the Israelite's journey (as recounted in the Book of Numbers). Some of the tribe of Manasseh had chosen to settle there rather than cross the Jordan and claim land in Canaan.

In summary, the verse tells us:

1. The tribe of Manasseh received ten portions of land west of the Jordan River within Canaan.
2. This was on top of the territory of Gilead and Bashan that some of Manasseh had already claimed east of the Jordan River.

Why is this important?

Land distribution: It illustrates the process by which the land of Canaan was divided among the Israelite tribes after the conquest.
Manasseh's prominence: It highlights the size and importance of the tribe of Manasseh, as they were granted a substantial amount of land on both sides of the Jordan.
Division of tribes: It shows how tribes could have territory divided on both sides of the Jordan River. Some Manasseh chose to stay east, while others crossed to fight for land west.

This verse, therefore, gives insight into the early history and settlement of the Israelite tribes in the Promised Land.

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