And Joshua spake unto the house of Joseph, even to Ephraim and to Manasseh, saying, Thou art a great people, and hast great power: thou shalt not have one lot only:
These complainers promised themselves favor because Joshua was of their own tribe, yet he shows no partiality, he administers his office impartially to all. They call their competent provision a mere single lot as if scorning it, though they were blessed abundantly; but those who speak thankfully of present increase should not doubt God will supply what is yet to come.
AI summary
Commenting on Joshua 17:14-18
And Joshua spake unto the house of Joseph, even to Ephraim and to Manasseh,.... From whence it is clear that some of both were present; and they being brethren, and their interests united, and their cities intermixed, it would be to their mutual advantage to have an enlargement; which the tribe of Manasseh wanted more especially, more of their cities that fell to their lot...
The complaint was that their allotment could not contain such a numerous people, yet Joshua rebuked their unbelief and cowardice by turning all their arguments back upon them. His answer was full of wisdom and patriotism alike.
AI summary
Commenting on Joshua 17:14-18