Old Testament

Joshua 17:14

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the descendants of Joseph, which includes the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, approach Joshua with a concern about their inheritance of land.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
Written
Around 1400-1370 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
The Israelites entering Canaan
CBTClear Bible Translation

The descendants of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying, "Why have you given us only one lot and one portion to inherit, considering we are a large people, since the LORD has blessed us so far?"

KJVKing James Version

And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to inherit, seeing I am a great people, forasmuch as the LORD hath blessed me hitherto?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the descendants of Joseph, which includes the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, approach Joshua with a concern about their inheritance of land. They feel that they deserve more than just one lot because they are a large and prosperous group, blessed by God. Their complaint highlights a sense of entitlement based on their size and the blessings they have received. They are essentially asking Joshua to reconsider their allocation of land, believing that their growth and God's favor warrant a larger portion. This moment reflects the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to claim their promised inheritance and the challenges of equitable distribution among the tribes. It also shows the importance of communication and advocacy within the community, as they seek to address their needs and ensure that they receive what they believe is rightfully theirs.

How to apply Joshua 17:14 to your life

This verse encourages us to voice our concerns and advocate for fairness in our communities. It reminds us that it is okay to seek clarification and express our needs, especially when we feel blessed and capable. We should approach leaders with respect and a spirit of collaboration.

Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Joshua 17:14 mean?

Joshua 17:14 shows the descendants of Joseph, representing the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, expressing their concern to Joshua about receiving only one lot of land despite being a large and blessed people. They feel entitled to more land due to their size and God's favor.

What is the significance of the descendants of Joseph in Joshua 17:14?

The descendants of Joseph, including Ephraim and Manasseh, are significant because they represent a large and prosperous group among the Israelites. Their request for more land highlights issues of inheritance and equity within the community.

What does the phrase 'the LORD has blessed us' mean in Joshua 17:14?

In Joshua 17:14, 'the LORD has blessed us' refers to the prosperity and growth of the descendants of Joseph, indicating that they believe their success is a sign of God's favor and should be reflected in their inheritance.

How does Joshua 17:14 relate to community advocacy?

Joshua 17:14 emphasizes the importance of voicing concerns and advocating for fairness within a community. The descendants of Joseph respectfully approach Joshua to address their needs, highlighting the value of communication in seeking equitable solutions.

The Book of Joshua
Book Summary

The Book of Joshua

1: God Commissions Joshua

After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.

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