Joshua 17:7-13 | The Way of Scripture

Joshua 17:7-13

Why do the boundaries and settlement notices overlap between tribes?

Berean Standard Bible

7 Now the border of Manasseh went from Asher to Michmethath near Shechem, then southward to include the inhabitants of En-tappuah. 8 The region of Tappuah belonged to Manasseh, but Tappuah itself, on the border of Manasseh, belonged to Ephraim. 9 From there the border continued southward to the Brook of Kanah. There were cities belonging to Ephraim among the cities of Manasseh, but the border of Manasseh was on the north side of the brook and ended at the Sea. 10 Ephraim’s territory was to the south, and Manasseh’s was to the north, having the Sea as its border and adjoining Asher on the north and Issachar on the east. 11 Within Issachar and Asher, Manasseh was assigned Beth-shean, Ibleam, Dor (that is, Naphath), Endor, Taanach, and Megiddo, each with their surrounding settlements. 12 But the descendants of Manasseh were unable to occupy these cities, because the Canaanites were determined to stay in this land. 13 However, when the Israelites grew stronger, they put the Canaanites to forced labor; but they failed to drive them out completely.

What is the context?

Manasseh’s boundary is described in relation to Ephraim, Asher, and Issachar. Tappuah’s region and town are distinguished, and cities assigned to Ephraim lie within the wider Manasseh territory.

Manasseh also has named cities within the territory described with Issachar and Asher. The distribution is therefore more detailed than a map of completely isolated blocks might suggest.

The people cannot occupy several of these cities because the Canaanites remain. When Israel grows stronger it imposes forced labor but still does not drive them out. The account distinguishes assignment, initial inability to occupy, and later domination without complete removal.

How is this passage commonly understood?

The USCCB notes connect the dividing boundary with the preceding Ephraim account. Wesley explains the intermingled cities through the related tribes and their differing needs. The text clearly records the overlaps; an exact explanation of each adjustment or extension beyond the named landmarks remains a reconstruction.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

No deeper study linked yet.

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