Old Testament
Joshua 17:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Joshua replied, "If you are a great people, then go up to the wood country and clear land for yourselves in the territory of the Perizzites and the giants, if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you."
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And Joshua answered them, If thou be a great people, then get thee up to the wood country, and cut down for thyself there in the land of the Perizzites and of the giants, if mount Ephraim be too narrow for thee.
What Joshua 17:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joshua responds to the concerns of the descendants of Joseph, who feel that their allotted land is insufficient. He challenges them to take initiative and expand their territory by going into the wooded areas where the Perizzites and giants live. Joshua emphasizes that if they consider themselves a strong and significant people, they should not hesitate to claim more land for themselves. This response highlights the importance of action and courage in pursuing one's goals, especially when faced with challenges. It also reflects the idea that blessings and opportunities often require effort and determination to obtain. Joshua's encouragement serves as a reminder that faith and action go hand in hand, and that one must be willing to step out and take risks to achieve greater things.
How to apply Joshua 17:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to take initiative in our own lives. If we feel limited by our circumstances, we should seek opportunities to expand our horizons. It reminds us that faith requires action, and we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones to achieve our goals.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Joshua 17:15
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 17:15 mean?
In Joshua 17:15, Joshua tells the descendants of Joseph that if they believe they are a great people, they should take action to expand their territory by clearing land in the wooded areas inhabited by the Perizzites and giants. This verse emphasizes the importance of initiative and courage in pursuing one's goals.
What is the significance of the wood country in Joshua 17:15?
The wood country mentioned in Joshua 17:15 represents an area that requires effort and determination to cultivate. It symbolizes the challenges that come with claiming new territory and the need for proactive action to achieve greater opportunities.
What does Joshua challenge the descendants of Joseph to do in this verse?
Joshua challenges the descendants of Joseph to take the initiative to clear land for themselves if they feel their current territory is insufficient. He encourages them to demonstrate their strength and capability by expanding into the wood country.
How does Joshua 17:15 relate to taking risks?
Joshua 17:15 illustrates the idea that achieving greater things often requires taking risks and stepping out of one's comfort zone. It encourages individuals to act on their beliefs and pursue opportunities, even when faced with challenges.
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