Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Joshua - Chapter 17 - Verse 10

17:10
Southward it was Ephraim's, and northward it was Manasseh's, and the sea is his border; and they met together in Asher on the north, and in Issachar on the east.

Meaning

In this verse from the Book of Joshua, the territory of Israel is being described in detail. The verse mentions Ephraim to the south and Manasseh to the north, with the sea forming the western border. The tribes of Asher and Issachar are mentioned as meeting together on the north and east, respectively. This geographical description serves to outline the boundaries of each tribe's inheritance in the land promised to them by God. It emphasizes the division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel, showing how each tribe had its designated portion. This verse also demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham to give his descendants the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession. Through these detailed descriptions of boundaries and territories, the verse highlights the importance of the land in the history and identity of the people of Israel.

Theological Overview

Within this verse from the book of Deuteronomy, the division of land among the tribes of Israel is outlined. The theological interpretation of this division reveals God's faithfulness to His covenant with the descendants of Jacob. Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph, were each given their portion of the inheritance, fulfilling Jacob's blessing upon them. The specific mentioning of the sea as the border signifies the extent of the land that was allotted to these tribes. The meeting point of Ephraim and Manasseh in Asher and Issachar reflects the unity and harmony among the tribes of Israel, despite their individual inheritances. This division of land showcases God's sovereignty and provision for His chosen people, fulfilling the promises made to the patriarchs of Israel. Through close examination of the wording in this verse, we gain insight into the meticulous planning and fulfillment of God's divine plan for His people.

American Standard Version

southward it was Ephraim's, and northward it was Manasseh's, and the sea was his border; and they reached to Asher on the north, and to Issachar on the east.
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