Firstly, mention is made of cities which belonged to Ephraim but are found within the border of Manasseh. The reason for this is not clear. It might have a basis in the greater blessing extended to Ephraim by Jacob (see Genesis 48:1–22).1 Similarly, some of Manasseh’s towns are said to be within the border of Issachar and Asher (Joshua 17:11). Another detail of which to take note is that the territory given to Manasseh (and Ephraim) was very fertile. It included the region of Bashan, thus it was a good portion of land to inherit.2
7 The territory of Manasseh reached from Asher to Michmethath, which is east of Shechem. Then the boundary goes along southward to the inhabitants of En-tappuah.