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Commentary on Joshua 17 verses 14–18
Here, I. The children of Joseph quarrel with their lot; if they had had any just cause to quarrel with it, we have reason to think Joshua would have relieved them, by adding to it, or altering it, which it does not appear he did. It is probable, because Joshua was himself of the tribe of Ephraim, they promised themselves that they should have some particular favour shown them, and should not be confined to the decision of the lot so closely as the other tribes; but Joshua makes them know that in the discharge of his office, as a public person, he had no more regard to his own tribe than to any other, but would administer impartially, without favour or affection, wherein he has left an excellent example to all in public trusts. It was a very competent provision that was made for them, as much, for aught that appears, as they were able to manage, and yet they call it in disdain but one lot, as if that which was assigned to them both was scarcely sufficient for one. The word for complainers (Jde 1:16) is mempsimoiroi, blamers of their lot: - 1. That they were very numerous, through the blessing of God upon them (Jos 17:14): I am a great people, for the Lord has blessed me; and we have reason to hope that he that hath sent mouths will send meat. "I am a great people, and in so small a lot shall not have room to thrive." Yet observe, when they speak thankfully of their present increase, they do not speak confidently of the continuance of it. "The Lord has blessed me hitherto, however he may see fit to deal with me for the future." The uncertainty of what may be must not make us unthankful for what has been and is done in kindness to us. 2. That a good part of that country which had now fallen to their lot was in the hands of the Canaanites, and that they were formidable enemies, who brought into the field of battle chariots of iron (Jos 17:16), that is, chariots with long scythes fastened to the sides of them, or the axle-tree, which made great destruction of all that came in their way, mowing them down like corn. They urge that though they had a good portion assigned them, yet it was in bad hands, and they could not come to the possession of it, wishing to have their lot in those countries that were more thoroughly reduced than this was.
II. Joshua endeavours to reconcile them to their lot. He owns they were a great people, and being two tribes ought to have more than one lot only (Jos 17:17), but tells them that what had fallen to their share would be a sufficient lot for them both, if they would but work and fight. They desired a lot in which they might indulge themselves in ease and luxury. "No," says Joshua, "you must not count upon that; in the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread is a sentence in force even in Canaan itself." He retorts their own argument, that they were a great people. "If so, you are the better able to help yourselves, and have the less reason to expect help from others. If thou hast many mouths to be filled, thou hast twice as many hands to be employed; earn, and then eat." 1. He bids them work for more (Jos 17:15): "Get thee up to the wood-country, which is within thy own border, and let all hands be set to work to cut down the trees, rid the rough lands, and make them, with art and industry, good arable ground." Note, Many wish for larger possessions who do not cultivate and make the best of what they have, think they should have more talents given them who do not trade with those with which they are entrusted. Most people's poverty is the effect of their idleness; would they dig, they need not beg. 2. He bids them fight for more (Jos 17:17, Jos 17:18), when they pleaded that they could not come at the wood-lands he spoke of because in the valley between them and it were Canaanites whom they durst not enter the lists with. "Never fear them," said Joshua, "thou hast God on thy side, and thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, if thou wilt set about it in good earnest, though they have iron chariots." We straiten ourselves by apprehending the difficulties in the way of our enlargement to be greater than really they are. What can be insuperable to faith and holy resolution?
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SUMMARY
Joshua 17:16 records the petition of the powerful Josephite tribes (Ephraim and Manasseh) to Joshua, expressing their dissatisfaction with their allotted inheritance. They argue that the hill country is insufficient for their large population and voice significant apprehension regarding the indigenous Canaanite inhabitants of the fertile valleys. Their fear is specifically rooted in the formidable military advantage of these Canaanites, particularly those residing in Bethshean and the Valley of Jezreel, who possess technologically superior "chariots of iron." This verse profoundly encapsulates the tension between divine promise and human perception of insurmountable obstacles, revealing a moment of fear and perceived limitation amidst the ongoing conquest and settlement of the Promised Land.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically placed within the broader narrative of land distribution to the Israelite tribes, detailed in Joshua 13-19, following the initial, major conquests. Specifically, it articulates the core complaint of the "children of Joseph," expanding on their earlier assertion of numerousness and demand for more territory in Joshua 17:14-15. Joshua 17:16 serves as the precise articulation of their primary obstacle and fear—the iron chariots—which then sets the stage for Joshua's direct and challenging response in Joshua 17:17-18, where he calls them to courageous action despite the perceived threat.
Historical & Cultural Context: The period of Israelite conquest and settlement (Late Bronze Age transitioning into the Early Iron Age) was marked by significant military advancements. Iron, though still emerging, was proving to be a superior metal for weaponry compared to the more common bronze. Chariots, especially those reinforced with iron, represented the apex of ancient military technology. These were swift, mobile platforms for archers or spearmen, functioning as shock units capable of devastating infantry formations. Their effectiveness was maximized on flat, open terrain, making the fertile valleys, such as Jezreel, ideal battlegrounds for their deployment. The Canaanites, organized into powerful city-states, were technologically sophisticated and militarily formidable. Bethshean, a major Canaanite stronghold, controlled a vital crossroads, making its inhabitants a strategic and terrifying presence. The Israelite army, primarily infantry, faced a severe tactical disadvantage against chariots in open combat, which fully explains their profound apprehension.
Key Themes: Joshua 17:16 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes prominent in Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it highlights the enduring tension between divine promise and human responsibility. While God had unequivocally promised the entire land to Israel (Deuteronomy 1:8), taking full possession required active obedience, courageous faith, and concerted effort from the people. Secondly, the verse underscores the critical theme of faith versus fear. The "chariots of iron" symbolize seemingly insurmountable obstacles that test Israel's trust in God's omnipotence, echoing earlier moments of doubt and unbelief, such as the fearful report of the spies in Numbers 13. Lastly, it serves as a significant foreshadowing of the recurring challenge of incomplete conquest, a theme that becomes tragically central in the Book of Judges, where the failure to fully dispossess the Canaanites leads to ongoing conflict, spiritual compromise, and a cycle of apostasy (Judges 1:19).
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Joshua 17:16 is Complaint, a recurring motif throughout the Pentateuch and historical books that often signals a deficit of faith or a reluctance to trust in divine provision. The children of Joseph articulate their grievances and fears, mirroring earlier instances of Israel's grumbling in the wilderness. There is also a strong element of Contrast evident in the verse: the "hill" country (less desirable, harder to cultivate, yet allotted) is sharply contrasted with the fertile "valley" (more desirable, agriculturally rich, but controlled by a powerful enemy). This highlights the perceived disparity between Israel's current inheritance and the promised land's full potential, which is seemingly hindered by the formidable "chariots of iron." Furthermore, the "chariots of iron" function as powerful Symbolism. They are not merely military hardware but represent any seemingly insurmountable obstacle, challenge, or fear that prevents God's people from fully stepping into their divine inheritance or fulfilling His purposes.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 17:16 serves as a poignant illustration of the perennial tension between God's unwavering promises and humanity's often-wavering faith in the face of daunting challenges. Despite having witnessed God's miraculous power in the exodus, the wilderness, and the initial conquest of Canaan, the children of Joseph allowed the visible strength of their enemies—the "chariots of iron"—to overshadow the invisible, omnipotent power of God who had promised them the land. This episode underscores that divine promises often require human courage, perseverance, and a willingness to confront real-world obstacles, even when they appear overwhelming. It reminds us that God's call to possess our spiritual inheritance is not a call to a life free of struggle, but a call to trust Him in the struggle, knowing that His power transcends all earthly limitations.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The "chariots of iron" in Joshua 17:16 serve as a timeless metaphor for the seemingly insurmountable obstacles, fears, or limitations we encounter in our own lives that prevent us from fully embracing God's calling and promises. These might manifest as deep-seated insecurities, past failures, financial difficulties, health crises, relational conflicts, or even the perceived strength of societal pressures or systemic injustices. Like the children of Joseph, we are often tempted to focus on the magnitude of the problem rather than the omnipotence of God. This passage challenges us to examine where our faith falters and where we allow fear to dictate our actions, leading to stagnation or compromise. It calls us to remember that God's power is not diminished by the size of our giants or the sophistication of our adversaries' "weaponry." True inheritance, whether physical land or spiritual blessing, often requires active obedience, courageous perseverance, and unwavering trust in God's ability to fight our battles and empower us to overcome what seems impossible. Our task is not to remove the chariots by our own might, but to step forward in faith, knowing that the God who goes before us is greater than any obstacle.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were "chariots of iron" so formidable in ancient warfare?
Answer: At the time of the conquest, iron was a relatively new and superior metal compared to bronze, which was more common. Chariots constructed with iron components were more durable, faster, and more robust. They were essentially the tanks of the ancient world, providing a mobile platform for archers or spearmen, capable of rapid assaults and breaking enemy lines. On the open, flat terrain of valleys like Jezreel, they were incredibly effective. The Israelite army primarily consisted of infantry, making direct confrontation with chariots in open battle a severe disadvantage and a significant psychological deterrent. This technological disparity instilled great fear and reluctance, as seen in Judges 1:19.
What was the significance of Bethshean and the Valley of Jezreel to the Israelites?
Answer: Bethshean was a major Canaanite city-state, strategically located at the eastern end of the Jezreel Valley, controlling access between the Jordan Valley and the fertile plains. It was a well-fortified stronghold and a center of Canaanite power. The Valley of Jezreel itself (also known as the Esdraelon Plain) was a vast, fertile, and strategically vital area. Its flat terrain made it ideal for chariot warfare, and it served as a crucial crossroads for trade and military movements. For the Israelites, controlling these areas was essential for securing their central highlands and fully possessing the Promised Land, but the entrenched Canaanite presence with their advanced military technology presented a formidable challenge.
Did God expect the Israelites to fight against such advanced weaponry, or was He supposed to remove the Canaanites entirely?
Answer: God had indeed promised to drive out the inhabitants of the land before Israel (Exodus 23:27-30), but this promise often involved Israel's active participation and faith. While God performed miraculous interventions (e.g., at Jericho in Joshua 6), He also expected His people to fight and exercise courage, demonstrating their trust in His power to grant victory over seemingly superior foes. The "chariots of iron" were a test of faith, challenging the Israelites to rely on God's omnipotence rather than their own military limitations. Joshua's response in Joshua 17:17-18 confirms this expectation: they were to clear the land themselves, even with the chariots, because God was with them.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The "chariots of iron" of Joshua 17:16 find their ultimate spiritual fulfillment and decisive defeat in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites faced seemingly insurmountable physical obstacles that tested their faith, humanity faces far greater spiritual "chariots of iron"—the pervasive power of sin, the sting of death, and the formidable forces of darkness. No human strength, military technology, or philosophical wisdom could ever overcome these spiritual foes. However, Christ, through His crucifixion and glorious resurrection, decisively triumphed over every spiritual principality and power, disarming them and leading them captive in His triumphal procession (Colossians 2:15). He conquered death itself, rendering powerless the one who held the power of death, that is, the devil (Hebrews 2:14-15). For believers, our inheritance is no longer a physical land fraught with earthly battles, but a spiritual inheritance in Christ, secured by His complete and final victory. We are called to stand firm in the Lord and in the strength of His might, putting on the full armor of God to contend against spiritual forces, knowing that our struggle is not against flesh and blood (Ephesians 6:10-12). In Him, we are more than conquerors over all things that might seek to separate us from God's boundless love (Romans 8:37-39), for the ultimate "chariots of iron" have been forever dismantled by the Lamb of God.