Judges 1:22-24
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This verse highlights a subtle but significant detail: the "house of Joseph" also went up against Bethel. This phrasing implies they were following the example of Judah and other tribes who had already begun their conquests, showing that this wasn't a solitary act but part of a larger, collective effort to claim the land.
The house of Joseph also went up against Bethel, and the LORD was with them. And the house of Joseph scouted out Bethel. (Now the name of the city was formerly Luz.) And the spies saw a man coming out of the city, and they said to him, “Please show us the way into the city, and we will deal kindly with you.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
Following Judah's successful campaign in the south, the tribes of Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) now turn their attention to conquering central Canaan. They set their sights on Bethel, a strategically important city that, despite previous encounters, still harbors Canaanite inhabitants. The narrative emphasizes God's presence and favor as they embark on this crucial part of the conquest.
Who were the 'house of Joseph,' and why were they fighting for Bethel?
The phrase 'house of Joseph' refers collectively to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. These were the descendants of Joseph's two sons, who received significant portions of the Promised Land.
While Bethel's initial conquest is mentioned in Joshua, it appears to have been reoccupied by Canaanites or was on the border of Benjamin's territory, leading to conflict. The house of Joseph's campaign against Bethel shows them actively participating in the broader conquest of Canaan, seeking to secure their assigned territories and expand their influence, just as other tribes were doing.
What does it mean that 'the LORD was with them' during this battle?
The statement 'the LORD was with them' is crucial. It doesn't necessarily mean an easy victory without struggle, but rather God's active presence, guidance, and empowering favor towards the house of Joseph.
In the context of the conquest of Canaan, this presence signified divine approval for their mission to dispossess the Canaanites and establish God's people in the land. It was a reminder that their strength and success ultimately came from God, even as they employed their own strategies and courage. It underscores that God fights for and with those who are in alignment with His purposes.
Understand the original words
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bet Yoseph · Hebrew Noun phrase
Referring to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh; it represents the descendants of Joseph who demonstrated faith and obedience in their military endeavors.
Bethel · Hebrew Noun
A city significant in patriarchal history (the site of Jacob's dream); the name signifies 'House of God' (Bethel), contrasting with its original name, Luz.
YHWH · Hebrew Noun
The personal name of the God of the covenant, who reveals Himself to Israel; the phrase "the LORD was with them" signifies His presence, protection, and divine support in battle.
thur · Hebrew Verb
To explore, investigate, or perform reconnaissance to gain tactical intelligence; in a biblical context, it often precedes a military campaign.
ragalim · Hebrew Noun
Individuals sent to gather information or observe enemy positions; their reports were essential for military strategy and often tested the faith of the people of Israel.
chesed · Hebrew Noun
A Hebrew term (hesed) denoting covenantal loyalty, steadfast love, kindness, or mercy; it often implies an act of favor that goes beyond mere obligation.
This verse highlights a recurring theme in Judges: the incomplete conquest of Canaan. Even though Bethel was near the territory of Benjamin, the 'house of Joseph' felt compelled to take it, suggesting ongoing Canaanite presence and the Israelites' need to assert control.
c. 1400 BC
Israelite Conquest of Canaan
Following their exodus from Egypt, the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, began conquering the land of Canaan, as commanded by God.
c. 1400 BC
Joshua's Conquest of Bethel and Ai
Joshua's military campaigns resulted in the defeat of various Canaanite cities, including Ai, which was near Bethel.
c. 1400 BC
Land Allotment to Tribes
After the initial conquest, the land was allotted to the twelve tribes of Israel, including Ephraim and Manasseh (the 'house of Joseph') and Benjamin.
c. 1350-1050 BC
Period of the Judges Begins
After Joshua's death, the Israelites entered a period where they were governed by judges, often facing struggles against remaining Canaanite inhabitants.
c. 1350-1050 BC— this verse
Josephite Tribes Re-take Bethel
The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh (the house of Joseph) launched a successful campaign to capture Bethel, which had apparently been reoccupied by Canaanites.
This passage describes the inheritance of the house of Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) and helps locate Bethel within their territory, providing geographical context for their campaign.
Genesis 28:19This verse names the town Bethel and explains its original name, Luz, connecting the conquest in Judges to significant events in Jacob's life and the sacred history of the land.
Judges 20:26-28This passage describes a later, devastating conflict involving the tribe of Benjamin and the other tribes of Israel that also centered around Bethel, showing its continued importance and the spiritual state of the nation.
1 Kings 12:28-29This passage highlights the sin of Jeroboam, who set up golden calves in Bethel, demonstrating how a place once associated with God's presence became a center of idolatry, showing the consequences of not fully driving out the inhabitants.
jfbJudges 1:22-26: "And the house of Joseph, they also went up against Bethel: and the LORD was with them."
Jud 1:22-26. Some Canaanites Left.22, 23. the house of Joseph—the tribe of Ephraim, as distinguished from Manasseh (Jud 1:27).
gillJudges 1:22: "And the house of Joseph, they also went up against Bethel: and the LORD was with them."
And the house of Joseph, they also went up against Bethel,.... Which lay upon the borders of the sons of Joseph, Ephraim and Manasseh, Joshua 16:1 ; and though it seems to have been taken when Ai was, Joshua 8:17 ; yet it appears that it was now in the possession of the Canaanites; wherefore the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh being desirous of enlarging their borders after the example of Judah,…
This verse highlights a subtle but significant detail: the "house of Joseph" also went up against Bethel. This phrasing implies they were following the example of Judah and other tribes who had already begun their conquests, showing that this wasn't a solitary act but part of a larger, collective effort to claim the land.
Following Judah's successful campaign in the south, the tribes of Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) now turn their attention to conquering central Canaan. They set their sights on Bethel, a strategically important city that, despite previous encounters, still harbors Canaanite inhabitants. The narrative emphasizes God's presence and favor as they embark on this crucial part of the conquest.
Following Judah's successful campaign in the south, the tribes of Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) now turn their attention to conquering central Canaan. They set their sights on Bethel, a strategically important city that, despite previous encounters, still harbors Canaanite inhabitants. The narrative emphasizes God's presence and favor as they embark on this crucial part of the conquest.
"The house of Joseph also went up against Bethel, and the LORD was with them. And the house of Joseph scouted out Bethel. (Now the name of the city was formerly Luz.) And the spies saw a man coming out of the city, and they said to him, “Pl…" — This verse highlights a subtle but significant detail: the "house of Joseph" also went up against Bethel. This phrasing implies they were following the example of Judah and other tribes who had alr…
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Last reviewed October 2026
