‘ But the Amorites would dwell in Mount Heres, in Aijalon, and in Shaalbim, yet the hand of the house of Joseph prevailed, so that they became tributary.'
These Amorites occupied extensive lands (but not as sole occupants) going from Aijalon in the north to Akkrabim, below the Dead Sea, in the south, so they could call on extensive help. Mount Heres is unknown, although many relate it to Bethshemesh. It means the mountain of the sun and was probably thus associated with idol worship. Aijalon was a town built on a hill, commanding from the south the entrance to the valley of Aijalon. It was thus on the main trade route between Mesopotamia and Egypt and was of great importance. Shaalbim was a town near Aijalon (see 1 Kings 4:9; Joshua 19:42 (Shaalabbin); 2 Samuel 23:32 (Shaalbon)). It is therefore understandable that the Amorites should fight desperately to keep them.
“Yet the hand of the house of Joseph prevailed (‘was heavy”), so that they became tributary.' This may have been after Dan had migrated north. Thus what Dan could not do, Ephraim accomplished. The Amorites were not invincible. But again Ephraim were disobedient, for instead of driving them out they made them tributary. Their desire for tribute was greater than their love for Yahweh.