שופטים, פרק א׳, פסוק ל״ה

The conflict between the Israelites and the Amorites escalates as the Amorite forces grow stronger and actively expand their territory [מצודת ציון]. They initiate a strategic push out of the valley to fortify and settle the mountainous region of Mount Heres, while still maintaining their grip on the valley cities of Aijalon and Shaalbim [מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם].

These contested cities rightfully belong to the tribe of Dan, but the tribe finds itself in severe distress, unable to face the Amorite threat alone. Because the territory of the House of Joseph borders Dan, they step in to rescue their neighbors. The House of Joseph takes over the military campaign, and over time, their forces prevail and gain the upper hand against the Amorites [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Despite this clear military victory, the outcome is ultimately a strategic failure. The House of Joseph completely overpowers the Amorites and possesses the military strength to drive them out and destroy them entirely. However, they choose not to do so. Instead, they settle for defining borders and reducing the Amorites to forced laborers who pay a tax. Commentators criticize this decision, noting that by failing to eradicate them completely, the Israelites allow the Amorites to remain in the land, where they turn into a permanent nuisance and a dangerous stumbling block [רד״ק, מלבי״ם].