And the coast of Manasseh was from Asher to Michmethah, that lieth before Shechem; and the border went along on the right hand unto the inhabitants of Entappuah.
JOSHUA 17:7KJVWhat does Joshua 17:7 mean?
Joshua 17:7 describes the boundaries of the land allotted to the tribe of Manasseh, stating that their territory stretched from the area of Asher to Michmethah, which is near Shechem, and then continued along the right side toward the people living in Entappuah. This verse is part of a detailed account of how the land of Canaan was divided among the Israelite tribes.
In context, Joshua is overseeing the distribution of land after the Israelites have entered Canaan. The verse gives specific geographic markers to define Manasseh’s territory, mentioning neighboring places and people to make the borders clear. This careful description helped the Israelites know exactly which land belonged to which tribe, reducing disputes and confusion.
The Hebrew behind Joshua 17:7
- The word "coast" (גְּבוּל, gevul) is often translated as "border" or "boundary," emphasizing that this verse is about the precise limits of tribal land, not a coastline.
- "Hand" (יָמִין, yamin) literally means "right hand" and in this context refers to the direction the border takes, which would be to the south when facing east, helping readers visualize the route of the boundary.
- "Before" (פְּנֵי, penei) means "in front of" or "facing," clarifying that Michmethah is positioned in relation to Shechem, giving a more exact location.
Why Joshua 17:7 matters
- This verse helps clarify the exact territory given to Manasseh, which is important for understanding later events and disputes about land among the tribes.
- The detailed boundaries show the care taken in dividing the land, reflecting the importance of fairness and order in the Israelite community.
- By naming specific places and directions, the verse connects the biblical narrative to real geography, grounding the story in actual locations that were known to the original audience.