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Commentary on Joshua 18 verses 2–10
Here, I. Joshua reproves those tribes which were yet unsettled that they did not bestir themselves to gain a settlement in the land which God had given them. Seven tribes were yet unprovided for, though sure of an inheritance, yet uncertain where it should be, and it seems in no great care about it, Jos 18:2. And with them Joshua reasons (Jos 18:3): How long are you slack? 1. They were too well pleased with their present condition, liked well enough to live in a body together, the more the merrier, and, like the Babel-builders, had no mind to be scattered abroad and break good company. The spoil of the cities they had taken served them to live plentifully upon for the present, and they banished the thoughts of time to come. Perhaps the tribes of Judah and Joseph, who had already received their inheritance in the countries next adjoining, were generous in entertaining their brethren who were yet unprovided for, so that they went from one good house to another among their friends, with which, instead of grudging that they were postponed, they were so well pleased that they cared not for going to houses of their own. 2. They were slothful and dilatory. It may be they wished the thing done, but had not spirit to stir in it, or move towards the doing of it, though it was so much for their own advantage; like the sluggard, that hides his hand in his bosom, and it grieves him to bring it to his mouth again. The countries that remained to be divided lay at a distance, and some parts of them in the hands of the Canaanites. If they go to take possession of them, the cities must be rebuilt or repaired, they must drive their flocks and herds a great way, and carry their wives and children to strange places, and this will not be done without care and pains, and breaking through some hardships; thus he that observes the wind shall not sow, and he that regards the clouds shall not reap, Ecc 11:4. Note, Many are diverted from real duties, and debarred from real comforts, by seeming difficulties. God by his grace has given us a title to a good land, the heavenly Canaan, but we are slack to take possession; we enter not into that rest, as we might by faith, and hope, and holy joy; we live not in heaven, as we might by setting our affections on things above and having our conversation there. How long shall it be thus with us? How long shall we thus stand in our own light, and forsake our own mercies for lying vanities? Joshua was sensible of the inconveniences of this delay, that, while they neglected to take possession of the land that was conquered, the Canaanites were recovering strength and spirit, and fortifying themselves in the places that were yet in their hands, which would make the total expulsion of them the more difficult. They would lose their advantages by not following their blow; and therefore, as an eagle stirreth up her nest, so Joshua stirs them up to take possession of their lot. He is ready to do his part, if they will but do theirs.
II. He puts them in a way to settle themselves.
1.The land that remained must be surveyed, an account taken of the cities, and the territories belonging to them, Jos 18:4. These must be divided into seven equal parts, as near as they could guess at their true value, which they must have an eye to, and not merely to the number of the cities and extent of the country. Judah is fixed on the south and Joseph on the north of Shiloh, to protect the tabernacle (Jos 18:5), and therefore they need not describe their country, but those countries only that were yet undisposed of. He gives a reason (Jos 18:7) why they must divide it into seven parts only, because the Levites were to have no temporal estate (as we say), but their benefices only, which were entailed upon their families: The priesthood of the Lord is their inheritance, and a very honourable, comfortable, plentiful inheritance it was. Gad and Reuben, with half of the tribe of Manasseh, were already fixed, and needed not to have any further care taken of them. Now, (1.) The surveyors were three men out of each of the seven tribes that were to be provided for (Jos 18:4), one-and-twenty in all, who perhaps for greater expedition, because they had already lost time, divided themselves into three companies, one of each tribe in each company, and took each their district to survey. The matter was thus referred equally, that there might be neither any partiality used in making up the seven lots, nor any shadow of suspicion given, but all might be satisfied that they had right done them. (2.) The survey was accordingly made, and brought in to Joshua, Jos 18:8, Jos 18:9. Josephus says it was seven months in the doing. And we must in it observe, [1.] The faith and courage of the persons employed: abundance of Canaanites remained in the land, and all raging against Israel, as a bear robbed of her whelps; the business of these surveyors would soon be known, and what could they expect but to be way-laid, and have their brains knocked out by the fierce observers? But in obedience to Joshua's command, and in dependence upon God's power, they thus put their lives in their hands to serve their country. [2.] The good providence of God in protecting them from the many deaths they were exposed to, and bringing them all safely again to the host at Shiloh. When we are in the way of our duty we are under the special protection of the Almighty.
2.When it was surveyed, and reduced to seven lots, then Joshua would, by appeal to God, and direction from him, determine which of these lots should belong to each tribe (Jos 18:6): That I may cast lots for you here at the tabernacle (because it was a sacred transaction) before the Lord our God, to whom each tribe must have an eye, with thankfulness for the conveniences and submission to the inconveniences of their allotment. What we have in the world we must acknowledge God's property in, and dispose of it as before him, with justice, and charity, and dependence upon Providence. The heavenly Canaan is described to us in a book, the book of the scriptures, and there are in it mansions and portions sufficient for all God's spiritual Israel. Christ is our Joshua that divides it to us. On him we must attend, and to him we must apply for an inheritance with the saints in light. See Joh 17:2, Joh 17:3.
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SUMMARY
Joshua 18:7 meticulously outlines the unique status of two specific groups within Israel regarding the land distribution in Canaan. It first clarifies that the tribe of Levi is excluded from a territorial inheritance, as their divine portion is the sacred priesthood of the LORD, signifying their unique spiritual calling and service. Secondly, the verse reiterates that the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh have already received their designated inheritance on the eastern side of the Jordan River, an allocation previously established and granted by Moses, the servant of the LORD. This verse thus underscores God's precise order in fulfilling His covenant promises and establishing the functional structure of the nascent nation, ensuring clarity in the ongoing division of the land.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Joshua 18:7 is strategically placed within the larger narrative of the land distribution, which spans Joshua 13 through Joshua 19. Specifically, it appears after the initial major tribal allocations to Judah, Ephraim, and the other half of Manasseh (chapters 15-17). The verse serves as a crucial parenthetical clarification preceding the survey of the remaining land and its subsequent division among the seven remaining tribes (starting in Joshua 18:8). Its purpose is to explicitly state why the Levites and the Transjordanian tribes are not participating in this current land lottery, thereby preventing confusion and reinforcing the divine order established earlier. It ensures that the subsequent actions of Joshua in Shiloh (as detailed in Joshua 18:1) are understood within the complete framework of God's plan for the settlement of Israel.
Historical & Cultural Context: The division of Canaan represented the fulfillment of God's ancient promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding a land for their descendants. This period marked a pivotal transition for Israel from a nomadic people to a settled nation, necessitating a clear system of land tenure and societal structure. In ancient Israelite society, "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah') was not merely property but a fundamental aspect of identity, family lineage, economic security, and covenantal blessing. The unique status of the Levites, who received no territorial inheritance, was a distinct theological and cultural arrangement. Their support came from tithes and offerings from the other tribes, as stipulated in Numbers 18:20-24, allowing them to focus entirely on their priestly and cultic duties without entanglement in agricultural or land management concerns. The prior allocation of land to the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan was a specific agreement made with Moses, contingent on their participation in the conquest of Canaan, a narrative detailed in Numbers 32.
Key Themes: Joshua 18:7 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates Divine Faithfulness and Fulfillment, demonstrating God's meticulous adherence to His covenant promises—not only concerning the land itself but also regarding the specific roles and provisions for the Levites and the prior arrangements for the Transjordanian tribes. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of Order and Structure in God's Plan, showcasing how God orchestrates the settlement of His people with precision, ensuring each tribe has a defined place and purpose, from the land-owning tribes to the spiritually dedicated Levites. Thirdly, it underscores the Unique Nature of Levitical Service, emphasizing that their "inheritance" is spiritual and relational—the priesthood of the LORD—rather than material. This sets them apart as guardians of the covenant and mediators of God's presence, a theme deeply rooted in passages like Deuteronomy 10:9. Finally, the reference to "Moses the servant of the LORD" subtly reinforces the Continuity of Divine Authority, validating the prior arrangements and ensuring that the current actions under Joshua are in direct alignment with God's commands given through His chosen leader.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Joshua 18:7 effectively employs several literary devices to convey its message. Explanatory Clarification is central, as the verse functions as a parenthetical explanation within the broader narrative of land distribution, ensuring the audience understands the exceptions to the general process. Contrast is evident in the distinct forms of "inheritance" described: the material land for the Transjordanian tribes versus the spiritual "priesthood of the LORD" for the Levites, highlighting their unique divine callings. The repeated use of the term "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah') throughout the verse creates a powerful Thematic Repetition, underscoring the central concept of divine provision and allotted portion, while simultaneously showcasing its diverse manifestations. Finally, the appellation "Moses the servant of the LORD" functions as an Appeal to Authority, lending immense weight and divine sanction to the historical actions and agreements, thereby solidifying the legitimacy of the land allocations.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 18:7 profoundly illustrates God's meticulous and diverse provision for His people, demonstrating that His blessings are not uniform but perfectly tailored to individual callings and circumstances within His overarching plan. The unique inheritance of the Levites underscores the principle that true wealth and security are found not merely in material possessions but, more profoundly, in one's relationship with God and faithful service to Him. Their dependence on God through the tithes and offerings of the other tribes fostered a communal interdependence, where the spiritual well-being of the nation was directly linked to the support of its priestly class. This verse also highlights the enduring continuity of God's covenant plan, showing how the promises made and arrangements established under Moses are faithfully brought to fruition under Joshua's leadership, reinforcing divine faithfulness across generations and demonstrating that God's word is always fulfilled.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 18:7 offers profound insights for contemporary believers concerning the nature of true inheritance and faithful service. The Levites' calling reminds us that not all blessings are material; indeed, the most valuable inheritance may be a spiritual one—a direct relationship with God and a life dedicated to His service. This challenges us to re-evaluate our own priorities, prompting us to ask whether we are primarily pursuing earthly gains or seeking our deepest satisfaction and security in Christ. Just as the Levites were set apart to facilitate the worship and spiritual health of Israel, so too are believers today called to be a "royal priesthood," mediating God's grace to the world and living lives that reflect His glory. Our "inheritance" in Christ is far richer than any earthly possession, encompassing forgiveness, eternal life, and a purpose-driven existence within God's kingdom. This verse encourages us to embrace our unique callings within the body of Christ, recognizing that diverse gifts and roles contribute to the flourishing of the whole, and that our sustenance ultimately comes from God's faithful provision, often through the generosity and mutual support of the community of faith. It calls us to find our identity and security not in what we possess, but in who we are in Christ and whose we are.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why didn't the Levites receive a land inheritance like the other tribes?
Answer: The Levites did not receive a territorial land inheritance because their inheritance was the "priesthood of the LORD." This unique arrangement, established by God through Moses (as seen in Numbers 18:20-24), meant their sustenance and purpose were directly tied to their sacred service in the tabernacle and later the temple. They were to live in designated cities scattered among the other tribes, supported by the tithes and offerings of the people. This ensured their full dedication to spiritual duties, preventing them from being distracted by agricultural pursuits or land management. Their identity and provision came directly from God, making them wholly dependent on Him and the generosity of the nation, thus setting them apart for sacred service.
What was the significance of Moses being called "the servant of the LORD" in this context?
Answer: The title "Moses the servant of the LORD" carries significant weight and authority. In the context of Joshua 18:7, it legitimizes and validates the prior arrangements made for the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh. By stating that Moses, God's chosen and faithful servant, gave them their inheritance east of the Jordan, the text underscores that this allocation was not an arbitrary human decision but a divinely sanctioned act. It reinforces the continuity of God's plan and the authoritative nature of the commands and agreements established during the wilderness wanderings, ensuring that the current land division under Joshua aligns seamlessly with God's overarching will and past decrees.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of God's faithfulness in the book of Joshua?
Answer: Joshua 18:7 strongly reinforces the theme of God's faithfulness. The entire book of Joshua is a powerful testament to God fulfilling His covenant promises, particularly the promise of land to Abraham's descendants. This verse specifically highlights two aspects of that faithfulness: first, God's meticulous provision for the Levites, ensuring their unique spiritual role is sustained and honored; and second, the faithful execution of the agreement made with the Transjordanian tribes by Moses. It demonstrates that God's plans are meticulously carried out, from the grand promise of the land to the specific arrangements for each tribe and their unique callings, underscoring His reliability, precision, and unwavering commitment to His people and His word.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 18:7, with its delineation of the Levites' unique spiritual inheritance and the prior allocation of land by Moses, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The Levites, whose inheritance was the "priesthood of the LORD" and not earthly land, powerfully prefigure the ultimate spiritual inheritance found in Christ. Believers in the New Testament are not promised a physical land, but rather an eternal inheritance in heaven, imperishable and undefiled (as taught in Colossians 1:12 and 1 Peter 1:4). More significantly, Christ Himself is our true and ultimate inheritance, the one in whom "we have obtained an inheritance" (as declared in Ephesians 1:11), embodying all the promises of God. Furthermore, the Levitical priesthood, though divinely ordained for its time, was temporary and imperfect, requiring continuous sacrifices. This points forward to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate High Priest, offering a single, perfect sacrifice that atones for sin once for all (as explained in Hebrews 7:27 and Hebrews 9:12). His priesthood is eternal, unchangeable, and superior, perfectly fulfilling the shadows of the Old Covenant. Just as Moses, "the servant of the LORD," faithfully distributed the earthly land, so Jesus, the Son of God and ultimate Servant, faithfully secures and distributes the spiritual inheritance of salvation and eternal life to all who believe, ushering them into the true promised land of God's eternal kingdom and establishing a new covenant where all believers are a "royal priesthood" (as stated in 1 Peter 2:9).