The Beginning:
After major battles, Israel holds much of the land, but not every area is fully subdued. The LORD instructs Joshua to ensure the land is apportioned among the tribes as an inheritance. Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh already possess territory east of the Jordan, as previously arranged through Moses.
The Middle:
At Shiloh, where the tent of meeting is set up, Joshua and Eleazar oversee the distribution of the remaining land west of the Jordan. The land is assigned by lot, establishing tribal boundaries and portions, and addressing unresolved claims. Caleb receives Hebron as promised because of his faithfulness, and special provision is made for the tribe of Levi, which receives towns rather than a single tribal territory. Cities of refuge are also designated so that cases of accidental killing can receive due process and protection.
The End:
When the allotments are completed, Joshua himself receives his inheritance, and the Levites receive their cities among the tribes. The narrative concludes by affirming that the LORD gave Israel the land he promised to the fathers and that his word proved faithful. Israel begins to live in the allotted territories, marking a transition from conquest to settlement.
The division of the land presents Israel’s inheritance as a gift of covenant faithfulness rather than merely a military achievement. By assigning portions “by lot” under priestly oversight, the story emphasizes God’s sovereignty and orderly provision for the whole people, including vulnerable needs such as justice (cities of refuge) and worship instruction (Levitical towns). The closing affirmation highlights the reliability of God’s promises: the land is given as part of the covenant purpose to form a people who live under God’s rule and blessing.
In the ancient Near East, boundary lists and town catalogs functioned like legal-geographic records, helping communities define land rights and responsibilities. Joshua’s detailed allotments and city lists reflect this administrative reality of settlement, where inheritance was tied to family identity, economic survival, and stable governance.
“Thus the LORD gave to Israel all the land that he swore to give to their fathers.” — Joshua 21:43
Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.
1. Which tribes already possessed territory east of the Jordan before the remaining land was distributed?
2. What special provision is described for the tribe of Levi during the division of the land?