Joshua 14:5

KJV

As the LORD commanded Moses, so the children of Israel did, and they divided the land.

KJV (with Strong's)

As the LORD {H3068} commanded {H6680} Moses {H4872}, so the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} did {H6213}, and they divided {H2505} the land {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

As ADONAI had ordered Moshe, so the people of Isra'el did - they divided the land.

Berean Standard Bible

So the Israelites did as the LORD had commanded Moses, and they divided the land.

American Standard Version

As Jehovah commanded Moses, so the children of Israel did; and they divided the land.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 14:5 serves as a profound summary statement, affirming the unwavering faithfulness of the Israelite community in meticulously executing God's specific instructions for the apportionment of the Promised Land. This verse underscores the direct and complete correlation between the divine mandate delivered through Moses and the subsequent, obedient actions of the children of Israel in systematically dividing the conquered territory, thereby ushering in a new era of settlement and the tangible fulfillment of ancient covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This concise verse functions as a pivotal transitional and summary statement within the book of Joshua. It appears at the very beginning of the detailed accounts of the land distribution among the tribes (Joshua 13-19), immediately preceding the specific and significant narrative of Caleb's inheritance in [Hebron](/joshua/14-6 "Joshua 14:6 - Caleb's Request for Hebron"). Having largely completed the military conquest of Canaan, the narrative shifts dramatically from warfare to settlement, focusing on the fulfillment of God's promise to give His people a resting place. Joshua 14:5 encapsulates the overarching principle governing this entire process: it was not an arbitrary human decision but a direct, divinely ordained act, setting the stage for the specific tribal allocations that follow. It serves as a foundational declaration of Israel's obedience, validating the legitimacy and divine authority behind the subsequent, meticulous land divisions.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The division of the land occurred after approximately seven years of military campaigns (as indicated in [Joshua 11:23](/joshua/11-23 "Joshua 11:23 - Joshua Completes the Conquest")), marking a significant shift from a nomadic, warring existence to settled tribal life. Culturally, land ownership was central to identity, security, and inheritance in ancient Israel, deeply tied to the covenant promises made by God. The method of division, "by lot," as commanded by God through Moses ([Numbers 26:52-56](/numbers/26-52-56 "Numbers 26:52-56 - Land Division by Lot") and [Numbers 34:13](/numbers/34-13 "Numbers 34:13 - God's Command for Land Division")), was not merely a random process but a divinely guided one, ensuring impartiality and demonstrating God's sovereign hand in the allocation. This process prevented tribal disputes and reinforced the idea that the land was a gift from Yahweh, not a conquest achieved solely by human might. The generation that entered Canaan was largely the one that had been faithful in the wilderness, contrasting with their disobedient predecessors, making their obedience in this critical act particularly noteworthy as a sign of covenant fidelity.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 14:5 powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Obedience to God's Command**, highlighted by the direct correlation between "As the LORD commanded Moses" and "so the children of Israel did." This obedience was the prerequisite for their success and blessing in the land, echoing the covenant stipulations of [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses for Obedience and Disobedience"). Secondly, it signifies the **Fulfillment of Divine Promise**. The division of the land represents the culmination of centuries of divine promises, beginning with God's covenant with Abraham (e.g., [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise of Land to Abraham")) and reiterated throughout the wilderness wanderings. This act marks a monumental step in the realization of God's ancient pledge to Abraham's descendants to inherit this specific territory. Thirdly, the verse implicitly testifies to **God's Unwavering Faithfulness**. Despite Israel's past failures, grumbling, and disobedience, God remained true to His word, bringing them into the land and enabling them to possess it as He promised. Finally, it underscores the theme of **Divine Order and Structure**, demonstrating that the settlement of the Promised Land was not chaotic but a meticulously organized process guided by God's precise instructions, reflecting His desire for order within His people and the meticulous nature of His plans for their inheritance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Commanded (Hebrew, _tsavah'_):** This verb (H6680) signifies a strong, authoritative directive, an imperative given by one in a position of supreme power and authority. It implies a binding instruction, not merely a suggestion or a request. In this context, it emphasizes that the land division was not a human invention or convenience but a divine decree, originating from the ultimate authority of Yahweh Himself (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh'_). The use of this word highlights the divine origin and non-negotiable nature of the instructions given to Moses (H4872, _Môsheh'_).
* **Did (Hebrew, _asah'_):** This verb (H6213) denotes active, complete, and effective execution. It implies more than just hearing or acknowledging; it means to perform, to make, to carry out fully. When paired with "commanded," it stresses the Israelites' (H3478, _Yisrâʼêl'_), specifically the "children" (H1121, _bên'_), faithful and thorough implementation of God's will. It points to a concrete action that brought about the desired outcome, demonstrating their obedience in practice, bringing God's plan into tangible reality.
* **Divided (Hebrew, _chalaq'_):** This word (H2505) specifically refers to the act of parcelling out, distributing, or apportioning. It emphasizes the systematic and orderly allocation of territories (H776, _ʼerets'_). The use of this term highlights the meticulous nature of the process, which involved careful measurement, tribal boundaries, and the use of lots, all under divine guidance, ensuring a just and equitable distribution of the inheritance among the tribes of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As the LORD commanded Moses,"**: This opening clause establishes the divine origin and supreme authority behind the subsequent action. It explicitly links the land division to the direct instructions given by Yahweh to Moses, likely referencing commands found in [Numbers 26:52-56](/numbers/26-52-56 "Numbers 26:52-56 - Land Division by Lot") and [Numbers 34:1-15](/numbers/34-1-15 "Numbers 34:1-15 - Boundaries of the Promised Land"). This phrase underscores that the entire process was not a human initiative or a pragmatic decision but a direct fulfillment of God's sovereign will and covenant promises to His people.
* **"so the children of Israel did,"**: This phrase highlights the immediate, willing, and complete obedience of the Israelite community. It signifies a direct and faithful correlation between the divine command and human action. The "as... so" structure emphasizes the exact execution of the divine will, portraying Israel, at this crucial juncture, as a people responsive and compliant to their God. This obedience was foundational to their ability to possess and settle the land, demonstrating their covenant faithfulness.
* **"and they divided the land."**: This final clause states the tangible, concrete outcome of their obedience. It is the practical manifestation that brings God's long-standing promise to fruition. The division of the land was the physical realization of God's faithfulness and Israel's obedience, leading to the establishment of the tribes within their designated territories, thereby fulfilling the long-awaited inheritance and establishing the nation in its promised home.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Joshua 14:5 is **Parallelism**, specifically a form of synthetic parallelism where the second clause completes or expands upon the first. The structure "As X, so Y" creates a direct and emphatic correlation between God's command (X) and Israel's action (Y). This highlights the crucial theme of **Obedience** by presenting it as a direct, unmediated, and faithful response to divine instruction. The verse also employs **Conciseness** for emphasis; its brevity draws attention to the profound significance of the act described, summarizing a complex and lengthy process of land distribution into a single, powerful statement of faithfulness. This succinctness serves to underscore the foundational principle that guided the entire settlement: unwavering adherence to God's word. The phrase acts as a **Summary Statement**, encapsulating the spirit of the entire land distribution phase and setting the tone for the detailed accounts that follow, validating the entire process as divinely sanctioned and humanly executed in faithful obedience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 14:5 stands as a powerful testament to the themes of divine faithfulness and human obedience within the biblical narrative. It demonstrates that God is true to His promises, even when their fulfillment spans generations and requires human cooperation and active participation. The land, a central component of the Abrahamic covenant, is here being physically apportioned, representing a tangible realization of God's word. This act of dividing the land, done in direct obedience to God's command, highlights the principle that blessing, inheritance, and true rest are intrinsically linked to heeding divine instruction. It underscores the active role God's people play in the outworking of His plans, not through independent action, but through faithful submission to His revealed will. The meticulous division also speaks to God's desire for order, justice, and equity among His people, ensuring that each tribe received its rightful portion as an inheritance, reflecting His character and His meticulous care for His covenant community.

* [Numbers 34:13](/numbers/34-13 "God's Command to Divide the Land by Lot")
* [Deuteronomy 6:18](/deuteronomy/6-18 "Doing What is Right and Good in the Sight of the LORD")
* [Psalm 105:42-45](/psalms/105-42-45 "God Remembers His Holy Promise and Brings His People into the Land")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 14:5 offers a profound lesson on the nature of faith and obedience for believers today. Just as the Israelites' inheritance and settlement in the Promised Land were contingent upon their faithful execution of God's commands, so too is our spiritual flourishing and experience of God's blessings tied to our willingness to obey His word. This verse reminds us that God's promises are not passive assurances but often require our active participation and trust in His methods, even when they seem unconventional (like dividing land by lot). It challenges us to reflect on areas in our lives where God has given clear instructions, whether through His written Word, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, or the wisdom of godly counsel, and to consider if our response is truly "as the LORD commanded... so [we] did." The long journey from promise to fulfillment also teaches patience and perseverance, reminding us that God's timing is perfect, and He always brings His good purposes to completion, inviting us to trust His process even when it is lengthy.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life am I currently being called to greater obedience to God's commands, and what steps can I take to align my actions with His will?**
* **How does the Israelites' active participation in dividing the land encourage me to engage more fully and faithfully in God's plan for my life, my family, and my community?**
* **What promises of God am I currently waiting on, and how can the demonstrated faithfulness of God in Joshua 14:5 strengthen my trust, patience, and perseverance during seasons of waiting?**

### FAQ
**Why is Joshua 14:5 such a concise verse, yet seemingly so important?**

Answer: Joshua 14:5 is concise precisely because it functions as a powerful summary statement and a theological declaration. It distills the complex and lengthy process of land distribution into a single sentence, emphasizing the foundational principle that guided it: divine command met with human obedience. Its brevity highlights the profound significance of this principle, acting as a crucial bridge between the conquest narratives and the detailed accounts of tribal inheritance. It sets the stage by affirming that all subsequent divisions were legitimate because they were done "as the LORD commanded," thereby validating the entire process as divinely sanctioned and faithfully executed. This succinctness also allows the reader to grasp the overarching theological truth before delving into the specifics.

**What was the significance of "dividing the land" for the Israelites?**

Answer: The division of the land was profoundly significant for several reasons, touching upon theological, social, and economic aspects of Israelite life. Firstly, it represented the tangible fulfillment of God's ancient covenant promise to Abraham and his descendants to give them a land (e.g., [Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "God's Covenant with Abraham")). This act demonstrated God's faithfulness to His word across generations. Secondly, it established the tribal identities and boundaries, providing each family and clan with a permanent inheritance and a deep sense of belonging and security. This was crucial for the social, economic, and religious stability of the nascent nation, transitioning them from nomadic wanderers to settled inhabitants. Thirdly, it underscored God's faithfulness and justice, as the land was distributed equitably "by lot," demonstrating that the inheritance was a divine gift, not merely a human conquest or a result of military might. This method also prevented internal disputes among the tribes, fostering unity under God's sovereign guidance.

**How exactly did they "divide the land" according to God's command?**

Answer: The division of the land was carried out according to specific instructions given by God to Moses, primarily detailed in [Numbers 26:52-56](/numbers/26-52-56 "Land Division by Lot") and [Numbers 34:1-15](/numbers/34-1-15 "Boundaries of the Promised Land"). The primary method was by lot, which was understood not as a random gamble but as a divinely guided process, reflecting God's sovereign will in the distribution (as seen in [Proverbs 16:33](/proverbs/16-33 "The Lot is Cast into the Lap")). Joshua, along with Eleazar the priest and the heads of the tribal families, oversaw this process ([Joshua 14:1](/joshua/14-1 "The Division of the Land")). The size of each tribe's inheritance was proportional to its population, but the specific location was determined by the casting of lots, ensuring impartiality and acknowledging God's sovereign hand in the allocation of each portion. This meticulous process ensured that every family received their designated inheritance as part of God's covenant promise.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 14:5, with its emphasis on the fulfillment of a divine promise through human obedience, finds its ultimate and perfect Christ-centered fulfillment. The land of Canaan, given as an inheritance, prefigures the greater spiritual inheritance that believers receive in Christ. Just as Israel entered a physical rest in the land, so believers enter into a profound spiritual rest and an eternal inheritance through the finished work of Jesus (e.g., [Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")). The obedience of the children of Israel, though commendable in this instance, was always imperfect and temporary, pointing to the perfect and complete obedience of Jesus Christ. He perfectly fulfilled every command of God, living a sinless life and even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Humility and Obedience")). Through His perfect obedience, Christ secured for us an eternal inheritance, not of earthly land, but of spiritual blessings and eternal life ([Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Our Inheritance in Christ")). The meticulous division of the land by lot, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in allocating each portion, foreshadows God's sovereign plan of salvation, where every believer is "chosen in him before the foundation of the world" ([Ephesians 1:4](/ephesians/1-4 "Chosen in Christ Before the Foundation of the World")) to receive an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "Our Imperishable Inheritance")). Thus, Joshua 14:5, with its narrative of promise, obedience, and inheritance, beautifully anticipates the grander reality of God's redemptive work culminating in Jesus Christ, who is our true and eternal inheritance.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Joshua 21:2

And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The LORD commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle.

Numbers 35:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses in the plains of Moab by Jordan [near] Jericho, saying,

Numbers 35:2

Command the children of Israel, that they give unto the Levites of the inheritance of their possession cities to dwell in; and ye shall give [also] unto the Levites suburbs for the cities round about them.