Old Testament
Joshua 18:2
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There were still seven tribes among the children of Israel that had not yet received their inheritance.
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And there remained among the children of Israel seven tribes, which had not yet received their inheritance.
What Joshua 18:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see that out of the twelve tribes of Israel, seven had not yet claimed their portion of land in the Promised Land. This situation highlights a sense of urgency and responsibility among the Israelites. The land was divided among the tribes, and each tribe was to receive its inheritance as part of God's promise. The fact that seven tribes had not yet received their inheritance suggests a delay in fulfilling God's plan for them. It serves as a reminder that while God has provided for His people, they must actively pursue and claim what has been promised to them. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent actions that the Israelites must take to ensure that all tribes receive their rightful inheritance, emphasizing the importance of faith and action in the fulfillment of God's promises.
How to apply Joshua 18:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to actively pursue the blessings and promises God has for us. Just as the Israelites needed to claim their inheritance, we too must take steps in faith to receive what God has prepared for us. It reminds us not to delay in seeking God's will and blessings in our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Land Divided at Shiloh (Joshua 18:1–10)
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Joshua

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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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 18:2 mean?
Joshua 18:2 indicates that seven tribes of Israel had not yet claimed their land inheritance in the Promised Land. This highlights the need for the Israelites to take action to fulfill God's promise of land.
What is the significance of the seven tribes in Joshua 18:2?
The seven tribes represent a portion of the Israelites who had not yet received their inheritance, emphasizing the urgency for them to claim what God had promised. It serves as a reminder of the importance of taking responsibility for one's blessings.
What does inheritance mean in Joshua 18:2?
In Joshua 18:2, inheritance refers to the land allocated to each tribe of Israel as part of God's promise. It symbolizes the blessings and provisions that God has set aside for His people.
How can I apply Joshua 18:2 to my life?
Joshua 18:2 encourages individuals to actively pursue the blessings and promises God has for them. It reminds us to take steps in faith and not delay in seeking God's will and provisions in our lives.
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