Definition: Yet the children of Manasseh could not drive out [the inhabitants of] those cities; but the Canaanites would dwell in that land.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 17:12. It’s a pretty stark and unsettling passage about God's judgment. Here’s a simple explanation: What it means: This verse describes a situation where God’s forces were actively trying to drive out the people of Jericho, but they couldn’t succeed. Then, the narrative shifts to a different group – the Canaanites – who were allowed to stay and live in the same area. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Joshua 17:12” : This is a specific passage from the Book of Joshua, which tells about God’s actions during the Israelites’ conquest of Jericho. "Yet the children of Manasseh could not drive out [the inhabitants of] those cities." – This part highlights a failure to completely eliminate the people of Jericho. “Children of Manasseh” refers to a group of people living in the area, and the verse emphasizes that they couldn't be driven out. "...but the Canaanites would dwell in that land." – This is the crucial part. The Canaanites, who were an indigenous population in the region, were given permission to live there. The verse says they would dwell in the same area. What it suggests: This verse points to a deeply troubling and perhaps even shocking consequence of God’s actions. It implies: God's Sovereignty & Justice: It shows that God is actively working to protect his people, and he doesn’t tolerate those who would disrupt or harm them. The Canaanites as a Threat: The verse suggests the Canaanites were a significant threat because they weren't being removed from the area. They had an established presence and the right to remain. Important Note: This is a difficult passage, often interpreted as a sign of God’s displeasure with the Israelites' disobedience and lack of respect for his commands. It's a reminder that God can be incredibly powerful and will not tolerate those who defy him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Joshua 17? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Explore why this story is often seen as significant?