Joshua 17:5 (KJV)

What does Joshua 17:5 mean?

Joshua 17:5 says that the tribe of Manasseh received ten portions of land in addition to the territory they already had in Gilead and Bashan, which were located east of the Jordan River. This verse highlights how the land was divided among Manasseh’s descendants, showing they received a significant inheritance on both sides of the river.

In the book of Joshua, Joshua is overseeing the distribution of land among the tribes of Israel after they enter Canaan. Manasseh, one of the sons of Joseph, is given a large inheritance because his descendants were numerous and some had already settled east of the Jordan. This verse emphasizes the careful and fair division of land, reflecting the importance of each tribe’s inheritance in Israel’s new homeland.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 17:5

• "portions" (חֶבֶל, chevel): This word often means a measured piece of land or territory. It suggests a formal, allotted share, not just any piece of ground.
• "side" (עֵבֶר, ever): This word means "across" or "the other side," clarifying that Gilead and Bashan are on the far side of the Jordan River from the main land of Canaan.
• "fell" (נָפַל, naphal): In this context, the word means "was allotted" or "was given by lot," pointing to the process of dividing the land by casting lots, which was seen as a way of letting God decide.

Why Joshua 17:5 matters

• Joshua 17:5 clarifies that Manasseh’s inheritance was unusually large, with land on both sides of the Jordan, which helps explain later references to their territory and influence.
• The verse shows the fairness and order in how Joshua and the leaders distributed the land, reinforcing the idea that each tribe’s needs and history were considered.
• This detail connects to earlier promises made to the descendants of Joseph and sets up later stories about the tribes living east and west of the Jordan.