Joshua 17

Joshua 17:1

A man of war] He had a double portion, both winning it by his valour, and having a right unto it, as being the first-born, Deuteronomy 21:17. 3. 14.

Gilead] 1: e. Our half of mount Gilead, as appeareth, Deuteronomy 3:12-13.

Joshua 17:2

est of the children] 1: e. Those who had no portion on the other side of Jordan.

by their families] 1: e. The heads of their families descending from them, and bearing their name.

Joshua 17:5

ten portions] Of which six fell to those named, 5: 2. of which the fifth belonging to Hepher, was divided amongst Zelophehads five daughters, the grand-children of Hepher.

Joshua 17:6

daughters of Manasseh] 1: e. Which descended from Manasseh, but begotten by Zelophehad.

Joshua 17:9

among the cities] 1: e. The cities and lands belonging to Ephraim and Manasleh were mingled one with another. See Joshua 16:9.

Joshua 17:10

the sea] 1: e. The Syrian sea.

Joshua 17:12

would dwell] 1: e. Resolving to dwell still in their own cities, stood upon their own strength and defence.

Joshua 17:14

children of Joseph] 1: e. Both Ephraim and Manasseh, as it ppeareth 5: 15, 16, 17.

one lot] They had two lots or portions; but their meaning is, That they were so small, by reason the Canaanites held still a great part from them, that all yet alotted to them was scarce sufficient for one tribe to inherite, in regard of their great multitude.

a great people] For in the last number these two tribes were eighty five thousand and two hundred strong, Numbers 26:34; Numbers 26:37.

Joshua 17:15

cut] 1: e. Cut down the wood, and make the land champion and arable for thy use, and fit for habitation.

Joshua 17:16

the hill] 1: e. The hillie part of the countrey which we have hitherto subdued.

have charets of iron] And, having this advantage, can hardly be vanquished and expelled, Judg. 1. 19. and 4. 3.

Joshua 17:17

oe lot onely] 1: e. As there is great reason that thou, being a great and numerous people, shouldest have a portion large enough for thee to inhabit; so, upon the same ground, there is as great reason that thou shouldst employ double strength to get a double portion.

Joshua 17:18

for thou shalt drive out] 1: e. Doubt not of good successe, if you will be couragious, and relie by faith upon Gods promises, assuring you of victory, Joshua 13:6.