Joshua chapter 17 continues to detail the allotment of land to the Israelite tribes. Here, the narrative zooms in on the tribe of Manasseh. Historically and culturally, this process isn’t a mere record of property transfers but deeply symbolic of God’s promises being actively fulfilled among His people. For us today, it speaks powerfully of how we respond to the promises and blessings that God sets before us. Often, as westerners, we overlook the symbolism inherent in land inheritance in ancient Israel. Possessing land wasn’t simply a mark of economic stability; it was evidence of God’s faithfulness and an invitation into deeper trust and obedience.
At the beginning of this chapter, we witness something remarkable—land inheritance for the daughters of Zelophehad (Joshua 17:3-4). Historically, inheritance typically passed through male family lines. But here, the faithful boldness of Zelophehad’s daughters reminded Joshua and Israel that God’s inheritance was expansive enough even for those traditionally overlooked.
“They approached Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders and said, ‘The Lord commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our relatives.’ So Joshua gave them an inheritance along with the brothers of their father, according to the Lord’s command.” – Joshua 17:4 (Christian Standard Bible)
Contextual note: The original command is found in Numbers 27:1-7. This moment illustrates a progressive emphasis in Scripture—God’s willingness to include those who might be marginalized or excluded by human standards. The New Testament shares a similar perspective in Galatians 3:28, affirming equality and unity under Christ.
In Joshua 17:12-13, we read:
“Yet the Manassites could not occupy these cities, because the Canaanites were determined to stay in this land. However, when the Israelites grew stronger, they imposed forced labor on the Canaanites but did not drive them out completely.” (New International Version)
This passage is crucial. While historically the idea of forced labor was not uncommon in the ancient Near East, spiritually, it’s symbolic of incomplete obedience. The Israelites allowed persistent spiritual influences to remain, possibly viewing them as useful or manageable. Yet this compromise became a thorn later on, repeatedly causing them grief (Judges 1:27-28).
In our individual lives, we face persistent spiritual battles, deeply entrenched habits, or flawed patterns of thought. Allowing these to linger, thinking we can control or benefit from them, often derails us spiritually. St. Augustine, in his “Confessions,” recounts how prolonged toleration of small sins ultimately breeds spiritual weakness—an insight still profoundly relevant.
The final section contains the tribe of Joseph (Manasseh and Ephraim), complaining their inheritance isn’t large enough. Joshua wisely turns their complaint into a challenge to deeper faithfulness and courageous action:
“The hill country is yours, and though it is a forest, clear it and its farthest limits will be yours.” – Joshua 17:18 (English Standard Version)
Joshua highlights a profound spiritual principle: instead of passively waiting for God to remove every obstacle, sometimes He calls us to faithful labor and courage. The forested hills represent spiritual territory not yet claimed, areas hindering growth, peace, or maturity that we must clear by intentional spiritual discipline and dedication.
Joshua 17 invites us into three theological insights:
Women’s Inclusion (Zelophehad’s Daughters): God’s kingdom challenges socio-cultural norms, emphasizing fairness and spiritual inheritance for everyone who trusts Him (see Galatians 3:26-29).
The Dangers of Compromise: Partial obedience leaves spiritual hazards. Scripture repeatedly urges full commitment (1 Samuel 15:22-23, Revelation 3:15-16).
Movement toward Spiritual Maturity: Faith involves labor and courage in claiming God’s promises. We grow by facing and overcoming obstacles (Philippians 4:11-13, Hebrews 5:12-14).
Interestingly, the name “Zelophehad” (Hebrew: צְלָפְחָד) means “protection against dread” or perhaps “shadow of fear.” His daughters’ action was a bold step out of fear’s shadow into trust and blessing. Similarly, today we must push beyond our fears to actively inhabit the security and blessings God offers.
Consider meditating on the classic hymn: “Be Strong in the Lord” (written by Linda Lee Johnson). This hymn beautifully encourages courage, faith, and full reliance on God in claiming and defending the spiritual inheritance He provides.
“Be strong, be strong, be strong in the Lord;
And be of good courage, for He is your guide.
Be strong, be strong, be strong in the Lord;
And rejoice, for the victory is yours.”
Father,
You have granted us a vast inheritance in Christ, spiritual blessings
and promises beyond measure. Forgive us for our timidity and partial
obedience. Help us confidently claim every spiritual blessing You
entrust to us. Grant us boldness, strength, and discipline in “clearing
away” habits and attitudes that hinder our intimacy with You. May we
courageously inhabit the fullness of life You’ve prepared, trusting
always in Your power rather than our own. Amen.