And Moses commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the land which ye shall inherit by lot, which the LORD commanded to give unto the nine tribes, and to the half tribe:
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
Analysis & Commentary
Moses commands the nine and a half tribes to receive their inheritance 'by lot,' emphasizing divine sovereignty in distribution. The Hebrew 'goral' (lot) was used to discern God's will, removing human favoritism or strife. Proverbs 16:33 affirms, 'The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.' This method demonstrated that each tribe's portion came from God's hand, not human merit or power. The principle continues in the New Testament: believers are chosen 'according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will' (Eph 1:11), and we 'have obtained an inheritance' by divine appointment.
Historical Context
This distribution occurred after Canaan's conquest under Joshua (Josh 13-21). Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh had already received territory east of Jordan (Num 32), leaving nine and a half tribes to inherit west of Jordan. The lot-casting likely used Urim and Thummim or similar sacred method, possibly stones drawn from a container, ensuring divine direction. The practice prevented tribal conflicts over superior land, as each tribe received God's specific assignment for them.
Questions for Reflection
Do you trust that God has sovereignly assigned your 'inheritance' - your life circumstances, gifts, and calling?
How does understanding God's sovereign distribution help you avoid envy of others' portions?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Moses commands the nine and a half tribes to receive their inheritance 'by lot,' emphasizing divine sovereignty in distribution. The Hebrew 'goral' (lot) was used to discern God's will, removing human favoritism or strife. Proverbs 16:33 affirms, 'The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the LORD.' This method demonstrated that each tribe's portion came from God's hand, not human merit or power. The principle continues in the New Testament: believers are chosen 'according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will' (Eph 1:11), and we 'have obtained an inheritance' by divine appointment.