Joshua 22:7
Now to the one half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given possession in Bashan: but unto the other half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them,
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Manasseh's division resulted from tribal size and land availability. Manasseh was Jacob's firstborn grandson through Joseph (Genesis 48:13-20), though Ephraim received the greater blessing. Together, Joseph's sons inherited a double portion, fulfilling Jacob's adoption blessing (Genesis 48:5). The eastern half-tribe received Bashan—famous for its oaks (Isaiah 2:13), cattle (Psalm 22:12), and grain production. The western half received central Canaan including Shechem, a strategic and religiously significant site. This geographical split created both blessing (extensive territory) and challenge (divided tribal identity). The Jordan River, while not wide, created psychological and logistical separation that would contribute to later Israelite division (1 Kings 12). Manasseh's unique position made them bridge-builders—literally and figuratively—between eastern and western Israel.
Questions for Reflection
- What relationships or communities in your life are geographically separated but require intentional maintenance of spiritual unity?
- How can those who span different groups or contexts serve as bridge-builders and peacemakers when misunderstandings arise?
- What family or church divisions exist where deliberate blessing and affirmation could help maintain covenant unity despite distance or differences?
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Analysis & Commentary
Now to the one half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given possession in Bashan: but unto the other half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them,
This verse explains Manasseh's unique divided inheritance. Bashan, northeast of the Sea of Galilee, was extraordinarily fertile territory conquered from Og (Numbers 21:33-35; Deuteronomy 3:13). The "other half" received land in western Canaan among the nine and a half tribes (Joshua 17:1-13). The phrase "among their brethren" emphasizes that both halves of Manasseh maintained kinship despite geographical separation—family ties transcended the Jordan River.
The repetition "then he blessed them" underscores Joshua's pastoral care for all departing tribes. The blessing wasn't perfunctory but deliberate, ensuring each group received proper honor and invocation of divine favor. The divided Manasseh would soon symbolize potential division between eastern and western tribes—when the altar controversy erupts (22:10-34), Manasseh's presence on both sides helps mediate reconciliation.