Joshua 22:7

KJV

Now to the [one] half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given [possession] in Bashan: but unto the [other] half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them,

KJV (with Strong's)

Now to the one half {H2677} of the tribe {H7626} of Manasseh {H4519} Moses {H4872} had given {H5414} possession in Bashan {H1316}: but unto the other half {H2677} thereof gave {H5414} Joshua {H3091} among {H5973} their brethren {H251} on this side {H5676} Jordan {H3383} westward {H3220}. And when Joshua {H3091} sent them away {H7971} also unto their tents {H168}, then he blessed {H1288} them,

Complete Jewish Bible

(To the one half-tribe of M'nasheh, Moshe had given an inheritance in Bashan; but to the other half, Y'hoshua gave one among their kinsmen on the west side of the Yarden.) When Y'hoshua sent them away to their tents he blessed them,

Berean Standard Bible

(To the half-tribe of Manasseh Moses had given land in Bashan, and to the other half Joshua gave land on the west side of the Jordan among their brothers.) When Joshua sent them to their homes he blessed them,

American Standard Version

Now to the one half-tribe of Manasseh Moses had giveninheritancein Bashan; but unto the other half gave Joshua among their brethren beyond the Jordan westward. Moreover when Joshua sent them away unto their tents, he blessed them,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 22:7 encapsulates a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking the culmination of the conquest and land distribution under Joshua's leadership. It specifically details the unique inheritance of the tribe of Manasseh, whose territory was divided between the eastern and western sides of the Jordan River, with one half receiving land from Moses in Bashan and the other half from Joshua among their brethren to the west. The verse concludes with Joshua's formal dismissal and blessing of the Transjordanian tribes, signifying the completion of their faithful military service and their peaceful return to their designated homes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 22:7 is situated at a critical juncture in the Book of Joshua, following the detailed accounts of the conquest (Joshua 6-12) and the allocation of the land to the various tribes (Joshua 13-21). Chapter 22 serves as a transitional narrative, marking the end of the military campaign and the beginning of the settled life for the Israelite nation. This verse specifically concludes the account of the Transjordanian tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—who had fulfilled their vow to assist their brethren in conquering Canaan. Their dismissal and blessing by Joshua set the stage for the subsequent altar controversy (Joshua 22:10-34), which underscores the fragile unity of the nascent nation and the importance of maintaining covenant fidelity. The verse's placement emphasizes the fulfillment of divine promises and the establishment of Israel in their inheritance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop for this verse is the period immediately following the successful conquest of Canaan, approximately seven years after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River. The "one half of the tribe of Manasseh," along with Reuben and Gad, had received their inheritance east of the Jordan from Moses (as detailed in [Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Moses Allocates Land to Reuben, Gad, and Half-Manasseh") and [Deuteronomy 3:12-17](/deuteronomy/3-12 "Deuteronomy 3:12-17 - Allocation of Transjordanian Territory")). However, they had solemnly vowed to Moses and later to Joshua (reaffirmed in [Joshua 1:12-18](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1:12-18 - Joshua's Charge to the Transjordanian Tribes")) that they would cross the Jordan and fight alongside the other tribes until the entire land of Canaan was subdued and distributed. This verse signifies the honorable discharge of this commitment. Joshua's act of "blessing them" was a significant cultural practice, a formal invocation of divine favor and prosperity upon individuals or groups, often performed by a leader or patriarch, marking a peaceful and approved departure.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it highlights the **Fulfillment of God's Promises**, demonstrating God's unwavering faithfulness in bringing Israel into the promised land, providing them rest, and securing their inheritance, as promised to Abraham. The dual allocation to Manasseh, initiated by Moses and completed by Joshua, underscores the continuity of God's plan through successive faithful leaders. Secondly, the verse emphasizes the **Unity and Solidarity of Israel**. Despite the geographical division of Manasseh's territory and the return of the Transjordanian tribes to their homes, the narrative consistently portrays them as "brethren," underscoring the importance of national and spiritual cohesion in the face of potential fragmentation. Thirdly, it showcases **Faithful Leadership and Obedience**. Joshua's actions reflect his diligent execution of God's commands and his pastoral care for the tribes, mirroring Moses' earlier leadership. The tribes' commitment to fight for their brethren for years exemplifies their obedience and dedication. Finally, the phrase "sent them away also unto their tents" signifies the theme of **Rest After Labor**, a recurring motif in biblical theology, pointing to the cessation of warfare and the beginning of a settled, peaceful life in their God-given inheritance, a concept echoed in [Joshua 21:44](/joshua/21-44 "Joshua 21:44 - God Gives Israel Rest").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bashan (בָּשָׁן, _Bashan_):** A fertile and strategically important region east of the Jordan River, known for its rich pastures and strong oaks. It was part of the territory conquered by Moses from Og, king of Bashan, and subsequently allocated to the half-tribe of Manasseh, Reuben, and Gad. Its mention here anchors the historical continuity of the land distribution, linking Joshua's work to Moses' prior allocation.
* **tents (אֹהֶל, _'ohel_):** While literally meaning "tent," this word in this context transcends its nomadic implication. It serves as a metonym for "homes" or "dwellings." The phrase "sent them away also unto their tents" signifies their return to their permanent residences, their families, and a settled, domestic life after years of military campaigning. It symbolizes the transition from a transient, wartime existence to a peaceful, inherited dwelling.
* **blessed (בָּרַךְ, _barach_):** The Hebrew verb carries significant theological weight. It denotes the invocation of divine favor, prosperity, and well-being. Joshua's act of blessing was not merely a farewell but a formal, authoritative pronouncement of God's favor upon them, acknowledging their faithful service, affirming their standing before God, and wishing them peace and success as they returned to their homes. It is a pastoral act that seals the completion of their shared mission.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Now to the [one] half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given [possession] in Bashan":** This clause serves as a crucial historical antecedent, reminding the reader that a portion of Manasseh's inheritance was already secured by Moses on the eastern side of the Jordan. It establishes continuity in leadership and divine provision, linking the past actions of Moses with the present work of Joshua. It highlights the unique, split nature of Manasseh's tribal inheritance.
* **"but unto the [other] half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward.":** This clause details the completion of Manasseh's land allocation. The remaining half of the tribe received their portion on the western side of the Jordan, within the main body of Canaan, alongside the other tribes. This emphasizes Joshua's role in fulfilling the divine promise of land for all Israel, ensuring that every tribe, even those with split inheritances, received their due portion. The phrase "among their brethren" reinforces the unity of the tribes despite geographical separation.
* **"And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them,":** This final clause describes the formal dismissal of the Transjordanian warriors. "Sent them away" signifies the honorable discharge of their military duty. Their return "unto their tents" symbolizes their transition from active combatants to settled inhabitants of their land, returning to their domestic lives and families. Joshua's subsequent act of "blessing them" is a profound pastoral gesture, conveying divine favor, peace, and affirmation for their years of faithful service, marking a proper and gracious conclusion to their shared mission.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Juxtaposition** is evident in the contrasting actions of Moses and Joshua in distributing land, highlighting both the continuity and progression of leadership in Israel. The division of Manasseh's inheritance "in Bashan" (east) and "on this side Jordan westward" creates a geographical **parallelism** that underscores the unique situation of this tribe and the comprehensive nature of the land distribution. The phrase "unto their tents" functions as **metonymy**, where "tents" (a type of dwelling) stands in for "homes" or "settled life," symbolizing the transition from nomadic or military encampment to permanent habitation and rest. Furthermore, the entire verse, as a concluding statement of a major phase of Israel's history, serves as a **capstone** or **summary statement**, bringing closure to the conquest and land division narratives and setting the stage for the subsequent challenges of settled life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 22:7 is a powerful testament to God's covenant faithfulness and His meticulous fulfillment of promises. The distribution of the land, culminating in the complete allocation to Manasseh, demonstrates that God always keeps His word, providing rest and an inheritance for His people. This verse also underscores the importance of corporate unity within God's people; despite geographical separation, the tribes remained "brethren," bound by a shared covenant and mission. Joshua's blessing signifies divine approval and the peace that accompanies obedience and faithful service, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture, where God's blessing is bestowed upon those who walk in His ways.

* [Numbers 32:33](/numbers/32-33 "Numbers 32:33 - Moses Allocates Land to Reuben, Gad, and Half-Manasseh")
* [Deuteronomy 3:18-20](/deuteronomy/3-18 "Deuteronomy 3:18-20 - Moses' Charge to the Transjordanian Tribes")
* [Hebrews 4:9-11](/hebrews/4-9 "Hebrews 4:9-11 - The Promise of God's Rest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 22:7 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. The faithful service of the Transjordanian tribes, who honored their commitment to their brethren for years before returning to their own inheritance, challenges us to consider our own pledges of service and loyalty within the body of Christ. Are we willing to labor alongside others, even when our primary "inheritance" or calling might seem distinct or geographically separate? The verse also speaks to the concept of "rest" after arduous labor. Just as God brought Israel into their promised land and provided them rest, He promises spiritual rest to those who trust and obey Him. This encourages us to persevere through seasons of struggle or intense effort, trusting that God will ultimately lead us to a place of peace and fulfillment in His timing. Finally, Joshua's blessing reminds us that faithful service is not in vain; God sees and honors our commitment, bestowing His favor upon those who diligently serve Him and His people.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the faithfulness of the Transjordanian tribes challenge me to honor my own commitments, especially in service to God and others within my community or church?**
* **In what areas of my life am I currently experiencing a period of "labor" or "struggle," and how can I trust God to bring me into His promised "rest" and peace?**
* **How can I actively foster unity and a sense of "brethren" within my spiritual community, even when there are differences in roles, gifts, or geographical locations?**

### FAQ
**Why was Manasseh's inheritance split between the east and west sides of the Jordan?**

Answer: Manasseh's inheritance was split primarily due to historical circumstances and the strategic allocation of land. The initial request for territory east of the Jordan came from the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who saw the fertile lands of Gilead and Bashan as ideal for their large livestock. A portion of the tribe of Manasseh also joined this request, likely due to the size of their tribe and the appeal of the available land. Moses granted this request on the condition that they would cross the Jordan and help their brethren conquer the land of Canaan (as detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Request of Reuben, Gad, and Half-Manasseh")). Thus, "one half" of Manasseh received land from Moses in Bashan. The "other half" then received their portion on the western side of the Jordan from Joshua as part of the general land distribution among the remaining tribes, ensuring that all of Manasseh received their full, God-ordained inheritance. This unique arrangement highlights both divine provision and tribal autonomy within the larger framework of the covenant.

**What is the significance of Joshua "blessing" the Transjordanian tribes upon their dismissal?**

Answer: Joshua's act of "blessing" the Transjordanian tribes (also mentioned in [Joshua 22:6](/joshua/22-6 "Joshua 22:6 - Joshua's Blessing and Dismissal")) was far more than a simple farewell. It was a formal, theological act carrying deep significance. Firstly, it was an **acknowledgment of their faithful service**. For years, these warriors had fought alongside their brethren, fulfilling their solemn vow, and Joshua's blessing was a public affirmation of their obedience and dedication. Secondly, it was an **invocation of divine favor and prosperity**. As a leader appointed by God, Joshua was invoking God's continued blessing upon them as they returned to their homes and settled into their inheritance. This included wishes for peace, fruitfulness, and well-being. Thirdly, it served as a **pastoral and unifying gesture**. In light of the geographical separation, the blessing reinforced their continued status as part of the unified nation of Israel, despite living across the Jordan. It set a tone of peace and reconciliation, which would be immediately challenged by the altar incident later in the chapter, making the blessing all the more poignant as a foundation for continued unity. It marked the proper and honorable conclusion to their shared mission, sending them to their [tents](/joshua/22-7 "Joshua 22:7 - Return to Tents") with God's favor.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 22:7, while detailing a historical event of land distribution and tribal dismissal, points forward to the ultimate fulfillment found in Jesus Christ. The "rest" that Israel found in the promised land, after years of wandering and warfare, foreshadows the deeper, spiritual rest that Christ offers to His people. Just as Joshua led Israel into their inheritance, Jesus, whose name is the Greek equivalent of Joshua, leads believers into their true spiritual inheritance: salvation, peace with God, and eternal life in His kingdom. The division of Manasseh's land, with one half given by Moses and the other by Joshua, can be seen as a type of the continuity of God's redemptive plan, spanning the Old Covenant (mediated by Moses) and the New Covenant (inaugurated by Christ). Ultimately, it is through Christ that God's promises find their "Yes" and "Amen" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are Yes in Christ")). The blessing Joshua bestowed upon the tribes anticipates the abundant spiritual blessings poured out upon believers in Christ ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Blessed in Christ with Every Spiritual Blessing")). Furthermore, the unity of the tribes, despite their geographical separation, prefigures the unity of the Church, the body of Christ, where believers from every tribe and nation are made one in Him, transcending all earthly divisions ([Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - No Jew or Gentile, Slave or Free, Male or Female in Christ")). Our ultimate "tents" or home are found not in an earthly land, but in the presence of Christ, who promises to prepare a place for us ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place for Us")) and to give rest to the weary ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")).

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 17:1

¶ There was also a lot for the tribe of Manasseh; for he [was] the firstborn of Joseph; [to wit], for Machir the firstborn of Manasseh, the father of Gilead: because he was a man of war, therefore he had Gilead and Bashan.

Joshua 17:12

Yet the children of Manasseh could not drive out [the inhabitants of] those cities; but the Canaanites would dwell in that land.

Numbers 32:33

And Moses gave unto them, [even] to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, [even] the cities of the country round about.

Joshua 13:29

And Moses gave [inheritance] unto the half tribe of Manasseh: and [this] was [the possession] of the half tribe of the children of Manasseh by their families.

Joshua 13:31

And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, [were pertaining] unto the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, [even] to the one half of the children of Machir by their families.