Joshua 17:12 Meaning and Explanation
“Yet the children of Manasseh could not drive out the inhabitants of those cities; but the Canaanites would dwell in that land.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Manasseh failed to drive out the inhabitants of those cities, and the Canaanites remained in the land.
What Does Joshua 17:12 Mean?
Here the narrative turns from gift to failure. Although these cities were assigned to Manasseh, the tribe could not drive out their inhabitants, and the Canaanites persisted in dwelling there. The land was promised, but not wholly claimed.
The word 'could not' carries a quiet warning. The same God who gave the land had pledged to fight for His people, so the lack lay not in His power but in their resolve. Where the people grew content to leave the work undone, the promise stood unfulfilled in part. It is a sobering reminder that gifts received still call for faith to possess, lest what God offers be left half-grasped.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 17:12
What does Joshua 17:12 mean?
Manasseh failed to drive out the inhabitants of those cities, and the Canaanites remained in the land.