Joshua 17:14
And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to inherit, seeing I am a great people, forasmuch as the LORD hath blessed me hitherto?
Joshua 17:14 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the Book of Joshua, the children of Joseph are expressing their discontent to Joshua about the portion of land they have been allotted. They question why they have only received one lot and one portion, especially considering their great numbers and the blessings that the Lord has bestowed upon them. The children of Joseph feel that they deserve more land to inherit based on their population and faithfulness to the Lord. This passage highlights the importance of fairness and equity in the distribution of resources, as well as the need for communication and dialogue within a community to address grievances. It also serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that arise when distributing land and resources among a growing population. Overall, this verse showcases the importance of seeking justice and understanding within a community, even in times of abundance and blessings.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of the children of Joseph questioning Joshua about the land allotment they received is that they were expressing a lack of faith in God's provision and sovereignty. By questioning Joshua's decision and claiming that they deserved more land due to their numbers and blessing from the LORD, the children of Joseph were essentially doubting God's wisdom in dividing the land. This passage serves as a reminder for believers to trust in God's plan and timing, even when it may not align with their own expectations or desires. Additionally, a word study on the term "portion" could reveal that it refers to an inheritance or possession, highlighting the importance of recognizing and appreciating the blessings and provisions God has given us, regardless of how they may compare to others. Overall, this verse serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of discontentment and the importance of trusting in God's plan.
Joshua 17:14 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me but one lot and one part for an inheritance, seeing I am a great people, forasmuch as hitherto Jehovah hath blessed me?
World English Bible
The children of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying, “Why have you given me just one lot and one part for an inheritance, since I am a great people, because Yahweh has blessed me so far?”
Douay-Rheims
And the children of Joseph spoke to Joshua, and said: Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to possess, whereas I am of so great a multitude, and the Lord hath blessed me?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then the children of Ioseph spake vnto Ioshua, saying, Why hast thou giuen me but one lot, and one portion to inherite, seeing I am a great people, for as much as the Lord hath blessed me hitherto?