Joshua 17:16

KJV

And the children of Joseph said, The hill is not enough for us: and all the Canaanites that dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron, [both they] who [are] of Bethshean and her towns, and [they] who [are] of the valley of Jezreel.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of Joseph {H3130} said {H559}, The hill {H2022} is not enough {H4672} for us: and all the Canaanites {H3669} that dwell {H3427} in the land {H776} of the valley {H6010} have chariots {H7393} of iron {H1270}, both they who are of Bethshean {H1052} and her towns {H1323}, and they who are of the valley {H6010} of Jezreel {H3157}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The descendants of Yosef replied, "The hills won't be enough for us; and all the Kena'ani living in the valleys have iron chariots - both those in Beit-Sh'an and its villages and those in the Yizre'el Valley."

Berean Standard Bible

“The hill country is not enough for us,” they replied, “and all the Canaanites who live in the valley have iron chariots, both in Beth-shean with its towns and in the Valley of Jezreel.”

American Standard Version

And the children of Joseph said, The hill-country is not enough for us: and all the Canaanites that dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron, both they who are in Beth-shean and its towns, and they who are in the valley of Jezreel.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 17:16 records the complaint of the descendants of Joseph—the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh—to Joshua regarding their allotted inheritance in the land of Canaan. They argue that the hill country assigned to them is insufficient for their considerable population, and they express profound apprehension concerning 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 encapsulates the tension between divine promise and human perception of insurmountable obstacles, highlighting a moment of fear and perceived limitation amidst the ongoing conquest and settlement of the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of land distribution to the Israelite tribes following the initial conquests under Joshua, as detailed in [Joshua 13-19](/joshua/13 "Joshua 13-19 - Division of the Land"). Specifically, it follows the initial complaint of the "children of Joseph" in [Joshua 17:14-15](/joshua/17-14 "Joshua 17:14-14 - Joseph's Descendants Complain About Their Inheritance"), where they assert their numerousness and demand more territory. Joshua's response in [Joshua 17:17-18](/joshua/17-17 "Joshua 17:17-18 - Joshua's Challenge to Joseph's Descendants") directly addresses their concerns, challenging them to clear the land themselves, even with the presence of iron chariots. Thus, [Joshua 17:16](/joshua/17-16 "Joshua 17:16 - The Complaint About Iron Chariots") serves as the specific articulation of their primary obstacle and fear, setting the stage for Joshua's subsequent instruction.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period of the Israelite conquest and settlement (Late Bronze Age to Early Iron Age) saw significant technological shifts. Iron, though known, was becoming more prevalent and superior to bronze for weaponry. Chariots, especially those with iron components or reinforcement, represented the pinnacle of ancient military technology, functioning as mobile firing platforms or shock units. They were particularly effective on flat, open terrain, making the fertile valleys (like Jezreel) ideal battlegrounds for their deployment. The Canaanites were organized into city-states, often well-fortified and possessing advanced military capabilities. Bethshean, a major Canaanite stronghold, controlled a strategic crossroads between the Jordan Valley and the Jezreel Valley, making its inhabitants a formidable presence. The Israelite army, primarily infantry, would have found direct engagement with chariots in open terrain extremely challenging, which explains their apprehension.

* **Key Themes:** [Joshua 17:16](/joshua/17-16 "Joshua 17:16 - The Complaint About Iron Chariots") contributes to several overarching themes in Joshua and the broader Old Testament. Firstly, it highlights the tension between **divine promise and human responsibility**. God had promised the entire land to Israel ([Deuteronomy 1:8](/deuteronomy/1-8 "Deuteronomy 1:8 - The Lord Gives the Land")), but taking full possession required active obedience and courage from the people. Secondly, it underscores the theme of **faith versus fear**. The "chariots of iron" symbolize seemingly insurmountable obstacles that test Israel's trust in God's power, echoing earlier moments of doubt, such as the spies' report in [Numbers 13](/numbers/13 "Numbers 13 - The Spies Sent to Canaan"). Lastly, it foreshadows the recurring challenge of **incomplete conquest**, a theme that becomes prominent in the Book of Judges, where the failure to fully dispossess the Canaanites leads to ongoing conflict and spiritual compromise ([Judges 1:19](/judges/1-19 "Judges 1:19 - Judah's Incomplete Conquest Due to Iron Chariots")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **children of Joseph (Hebrew, _b'nei Yosef_):** This refers collectively to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, descendants of Jacob's son Joseph. These were two of the largest and most influential tribes, often acting as a single powerful entity. Their complaint here carries significant weight, representing a major segment of the Israelite population. Their perceived need for more land, coupled with their fear, highlights the practical challenges of settling a vast territory and the psychological impact of formidable enemies on even the strongest tribes.
* **chariots of iron (Hebrew, רֶכֶב בַּרְזֶל, _rekeb barzel_):** This phrase is central to the verse's meaning. "Chariots" (רֶכֶב, _rekeb_) refers to the primary mobile weapon system of the ancient Near East, used for rapid assault and archery. "Iron" (בַּרְזֶל, _barzel_) signifies a superior, harder metal compared to the more common bronze of the era. The presence of iron chariots indicates a technological and military advantage held by the Canaanites, making them a terrifying and seemingly invincible force against the Israelite infantry, especially in the open plains where chariots excelled. This technological disparity became a significant psychological barrier for the Israelites.
* **valley of Jezreel (Hebrew, עֵמֶק יִזְרְעֶאל, _'emek Yizre'el_):** This is a large, fertile, and strategically vital plain in northern Israel, often referred to as the Esdraelon Plain. Its flat terrain was ideal for chariot warfare, making it a stronghold for Canaanite power. Throughout biblical history, it served as a major battleground (e.g., [Judges 4:13](/judges/4-13 "Judges 4:13 - Sisera's Chariots in the Jezreel Valley")). Its mention here underscores the specific, tangible nature of the threat perceived by the Israelites, as controlling this valley was crucial for both military and agricultural dominance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children of Joseph said,"**: This opening clause identifies the speakers, the powerful and numerous tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, whose collective voice carries significant weight in the assembly. Their direct address to Joshua indicates a formal complaint or petition.
* **"The hill is not enough for us:"**: This is the first part of their justification. They claim that the mountainous, less fertile terrain already allotted to them is insufficient to accommodate their large and growing population. This highlights a practical concern about resources and living space, setting up their argument for needing more land, specifically the valleys.
* **"and all the Canaanites that dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron,"**: This is the core of their apprehension and the true reason for their reluctance. They acknowledge the formidable military might of the Canaanites inhabiting the fertile lowlands. The "chariots of iron" represent a superior military technology that they perceive as an insurmountable obstacle, shifting their focus from God's promise to the enemy's strength.
* **"[both they] who [are] of Bethshean and her towns,"**: This specifies one major Canaanite stronghold. Bethshean was a strategically important city controlling access to the Jezreel Valley and the Jordan Valley. Its inhabitants, possessing iron chariots, represented a significant, localized threat that the Israelites felt ill-equipped to confront.
* **"and [they] who [are] of the valley of Jezreel."**: This further specifies the geographic scope of the threat. The Valley of Jezreel, a vast and fertile plain, was a prime area for chariot deployment and a center of Canaanite power. By mentioning both Bethshean and the Valley of Jezreel, the children of Joseph emphasize the pervasive and formidable nature of the Canaanite military presence in the very areas they desired to inherit.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in [Joshua 17:16](/joshua/17-16 "Joshua 17:16 - The Complaint About Iron Chariots") is **Complaint**, a common motif in the Pentateuch and historical books, often signaling a lack of faith or willingness to trust divine provision. The children of Joseph articulate their grievances and fears, much like the Israelites in the wilderness. There is also a strong element of **Contrast** evident in the verse: the "hill" country (less desirable, harder to cultivate) is contrasted with the fertile "valley" (more desirable, 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 hindered by the formidable "chariots of iron." Furthermore, the "chariots of iron" function as a 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.

* [Judges 1:19](/judges/1-19 "Judges 1:19 - Judah's Incomplete Conquest Due to Iron Chariots")
* [Numbers 13:28](/numbers/13-28 "Numbers 13:28 - The Spies' Report of Strong People and Fortified Cities")
* [Deuteronomy 20:1](/deuteronomy/20-1 "Deuteronomy 20:1 - Do Not Fear Your Enemies in Battle")

### 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. 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. 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, but to step forward in faith, knowing that the God who goes before us is greater than any obstacle.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "chariots of iron" (i.e., seemingly insurmountable obstacles or fears) are currently preventing you from moving forward in faith or fully pursuing God's call in your life?**
* **How does focusing on the strength or complexity of these obstacles, rather than on God's limitless power, impact your trust and obedience?**
* **In what specific areas of your life is God calling you to exercise greater courage and perseverance, believing that He will equip you to overcome the "impossible"?**

### 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](/judges/1-19 "Judges 1:19 - Judah's Incomplete Conquest Due to Iron Chariots").

**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](/exodus/23-27 "Exodus 23:27-30 - God Promises to Drive Out the Inhabitants")), but this promise often involved Israel's active participation and faith. While God performed miraculous interventions (e.g., at Jericho in [Joshua 6](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho")), 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](/joshua/17-17 "Joshua 17:17-18 - Joshua's Challenge to Joseph's Descendants") 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 defeat in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Israelites faced seemingly insurmountable physical obstacles, humanity faces far greater spiritual "chariots of iron"—sin, death, and the powers of darkness. No human strength or military technology could ever overcome these spiritual foes. However, Christ, through His crucifixion and resurrection, decisively triumphed over every spiritual principality and power, disarming them and leading them captive in His triumphal procession ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Principalities")). He conquered death, rendering powerless the one who held the power of death, that is, the devil ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Christ's Victory Over Death")). For believers, our inheritance is no longer a physical land fraught with earthly battles, but a spiritual inheritance in Christ, secured by His 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 ([Ephesians 6:10-12](/ephesians/6-10 "Ephesians 6:10-12 - The Armor of God")). In Him, we are more than conquerors over all things that might seek to separate us from God's love ([Romans 8:37-39](/romans/8-37 "Romans 8:37-39 - More Than Conquerors Through Christ")), for the ultimate "chariots of iron" have been forever dismantled by the Lamb of God.

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

Judges 4:3

And the children of Israel cried unto the LORD: for he had nine hundred chariots of iron; and twenty years he mightily oppressed the children of Israel.

1 Kings 4:12

Baana the son of Ahilud; [to him pertained] Taanach and Megiddo, and all Bethshean, which [is] by Zartanah beneath Jezreel, from Bethshean to Abelmeholah, [even] unto [the place that is] beyond Jokneam:

Judges 1:19

And the LORD was with Judah; and he drave out [the inhabitants of] the mountain; but could not drive out the inhabitants of the valley, because they had chariots of iron.

Joshua 17:18

But the mountain shall be thine; for it [is] a wood, and thou shalt cut it down: and the outgoings of it shall be thine: for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, [and] though they [be] strong.

Judges 6:33

¶ Then all the Midianites and the Amalekites and the children of the east were gathered together, and went over, and pitched in the valley of Jezreel.

Joshua 19:18

And their border was toward Jezreel, and Chesulloth, and Shunem,

Joshua 17:11

And Manasseh had in Issachar and in Asher Bethshean and her towns, and Ibleam and her towns, and the inhabitants of Dor and her towns, and the inhabitants of Endor and her towns, and the inhabitants of Taanach and her towns, and the inhabitants of Megiddo and her towns, [even] three countries.