Joshua 16:6

And the border went out toward the sea to Michmethah on the north side; and the border went about eastward unto Taanathshiloh, and passed by it on the east to Janohah;

And the border {H1366} went out {H3318} toward the sea {H3220} to Michmethah {H4366} on the north side {H6828}; and the border {H1366} went about {H5437} eastward {H4217} unto Taanathshiloh {H8387}, and passed {H5674} by it on the east {H4217} to Janohah {H3239};

then the border extended westward, with Mikhm'tat on the north; next the border turned eastward to Ta'anat-Shiloh and passed by it to the east of Yanochah;

and out toward the Sea. From Michmethath on the north it turned eastward toward Taanath-shiloh and passed by it to Janoah on the east.

and the border went out westward at Michmethath on the north; and the border turned about eastward unto Taanath-shiloh, and passed along it on the east of Janoah;

Commentary

Context of Joshua 16:6

Joshua chapter 16 details the specific land inheritance allocated to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the descendants of Joseph. This division is part of the larger process described in the book of Joshua, where the Promised Land is distributed among the Israelite tribes after their conquest under Joshua's leadership. Verse 6, along with its surrounding verses, meticulously describes the boundaries of Ephraim's territory, often overlapping or interacting with the territory of Manasseh, as seen in the broader narrative of their shared inheritance. This particular verse focuses on a segment of the northern border of Ephraim, outlining its course from a point near the sea eastward through specific landmarks.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Precision in Land Division: The intricate detail of the border descriptions, including specific place names like Michmethah, Taanathshiloh, and Janohah, highlights the meticulous and orderly nature of the land distribution. This wasn't a haphazard allocation but a carefully defined inheritance for each tribe.
  • Fulfillment of God's Promises: The very act of dividing the land underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His ancient covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that their descendants would inherit this land. The detailed mapping served as a tangible manifestation of divine faithfulness (Genesis 15:18).
  • Tribal Identity and Territory: These defined borders were crucial for establishing the distinct identity and territorial integrity of each tribe, preventing disputes and ensuring a clear understanding of their respective responsibilities and resources within the Promised Land.

Linguistic Insights

The names mentioned in Joshua 16:6—Michmethah, Taanathshiloh, and Janohah—are significant as geographical markers. While their exact modern identifications are sometimes debated by scholars, their inclusion in the text demonstrates the ancient Israelite understanding of precise land demarcation. The phrase "toward the sea" refers to the Mediterranean Sea, indicating the western direction of the border's origin. The careful notation of "on the north side" and "on the east" further emphasizes the detailed topographical knowledge used in defining these sacred inheritances.

Practical Application

While Joshua 16:6 describes ancient geographical boundaries, it offers timeless principles:

  1. God's Faithfulness to His Word: Just as God meticulously fulfilled His promise to give Israel the land, we can trust in His faithfulness to keep His promises to us today. He is a God of precision and integrity.
  2. The Importance of Boundaries: The clear demarcation of tribal lands reminds us of the importance of boundaries in life—whether in relationships, responsibilities, or personal conduct. Healthy boundaries bring order and prevent confusion.
  3. Stewardship of Inheritance: The Israelites were given a specific inheritance to steward. Similarly, believers are given spiritual gifts, talents, and resources, which we are called to steward faithfully for God's glory within the "boundaries" of our calling (1 Peter 4:10).
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Cross-References

  • Joshua 17:7 (5 votes)

    ¶ And the coast of Manasseh was from Asher to Michmethah, that [lieth] before Shechem; and the border went along on the right hand unto the inhabitants of Entappuah.

  • Joshua 18:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the tabernacle of the congregation there. And the land was subdued before them.