Introduction
The distribution of the tribes is perhaps best seen from the chart on preceding page and the map facing page 232. As previously stated, while there is a symbolic and pictorial equality in these divisions which run in parallel sections from the Mediterranean to the Jordan, if an attempt had been made to literally divide the land in this way, the plan would have been found impracticable and unjust. (See introduction to chaps. 40-48.)
It is noticeable that several of the tribes have not the same position they occupied previous to the exile (Joshua 14-19). The reasons for the change cannot always be understood by us. Yet it is easy to see why the royal house of Judah and Benjamin, always close to Jerusalem and united in the Judaic kingdom, should be nearest the sanctuary. Reuben and Simeon, Issachar and Zebulun (sons of Leah) also occupy places corresponding to their traditional importance; Ephraim and Manasseh (sons of Joseph, the best beloved of Rachel and Jacob) have choice lots, while the sons of the handmaids (Naphtali, Asher, Dan, and Gad) are on the frontiers of the Holy Land. (See Genesis 35:0 and Genesis 49:1-27.)
Be the first to react on this!
