Joshua 17:7

And the coast of Manasseh was from Asher to Michmethah, that lieth before Shechem, and the border went along on the right hand, vnto the inhabitants of Entappuah. Joshua 17:7 (KJV)

The book of Joshua forms part of the historical narrative of the Israelites entering and possessing the Promised Land. The land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel, and Joshua 17 records the inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh.

The Tribe of Manasseh:

Manasseh was one of the two tribes descended from Joseph, the son of Jacob. This tribe received its portion of the Promised Land on the west side of the Jordan River.

Geographic Boundaries:

In Joshua 17:7 the verse describes the northern border of Manasseh’s territory. The coast of Manasseh extended from Asher, a neighboring tribe to the northwest, to Michmethah. Michmethah is not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture, so its exact location remains uncertain. It lay before Shechem, a significant city in the central region of Israel.

The Border:

The verse states that the border of Manasseh continued along on the right hand to the inhabitants of Entappuah. Entappuah is also not specifically mentioned elsewhere, and its precise location is unknown.

Spiritual Lessons:

Divine Promises Fulfilled – The division of the Promised Land among the tribes demonstrates God’s faithfulness in fulfilling the promises made to the patriarchs after years of wandering in the wilderness.

God’s Sovereignty – The boundaries and portions of the land were determined by God, who apportioned each tribe’s inheritance according to His divine plan and purpose.

Unity and Cooperation – The description of borders and territories shows the Israelites living as a community, each tribe having its designated area, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation among God’s people.

Historical Accuracy – The detailed geographical references, such as those in this verse, provide material for studying and understanding the ancient context of Scripture, underscoring the historical reliability of the biblical record.

Overall, Joshua 17:7 offers insight into the distribution of the Promised Land and highlights God’s faithfulness, sovereignty, and the need for unity among His people.