Joshua 22:11

Then the Israelites received the report: "Behold, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an altar on the border of the land of Canaan, at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side."

Study Bible

And the Israelites heard it said
This phrase introduces the reaction of the Israelites to a report they received. The Hebrew root for "heard" is שָׁמַע (shama), which implies not just the act of hearing but also understanding and responding. In the ancient Near Eastern context, hearing often led to action, reflecting the communal nature of Israelite society where news spread quickly and required a collective response. The phrase sets the stage for the unfolding drama, highlighting the importance of communication and the potential for misunderstanding within a community.

Behold
The word "behold" is used to draw attention and emphasize the significance of the report. In Hebrew, the word is הִנֵּה (hinneh), which serves as an exclamation to alert the listener to something important. It is a call to pay attention, suggesting that what follows is of great consequence. This reflects the narrative style of the Old Testament, where such terms are used to engage the audience and underscore the gravity of the situation.

the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes were part of the Transjordan tribes, who had settled on the east side of the Jordan River. Historically, their location separated them from the rest of Israel, which sometimes led to tensions and misunderstandings. The mention of these specific tribes is significant because it highlights the potential for division within the nation of Israel. The historical context here is crucial, as these tribes had earlier requested to settle in this region due to its suitability for their livestock (Numbers 32).

have built an altar
The act of building an altar was significant in ancient Israelite religion, as altars were central to worship and sacrifice. The Hebrew word for altar is מִזְבֵּחַ (mizbeach), which is derived from the root זָבַח (zabach), meaning "to sacrifice." In the context of Israelite worship, altars were to be built according to specific divine instructions, primarily at the central sanctuary. The construction of an altar by these tribes raised concerns about potential idolatry or unauthorized worship, which was strictly forbidden (Deuteronomy 12:13-14).

on the frontier of the land of Canaan
The term "frontier" indicates a boundary or border area, which in this context refers to the edge of the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for frontier is גְּבוּל (gevul), meaning border or boundary. This geographical detail is important because it underscores the physical and symbolic separation between the Transjordan tribes and the rest of Israel. The location of the altar on the frontier suggests a potential challenge to the unity and religious centralization of the nation.

at the region of the Jordan
The Jordan River was a significant geographical and spiritual landmark for the Israelites. It marked the boundary of the Promised Land and was the site of several key events in Israel's history, including the crossing into Canaan under Joshua's leadership (Joshua 3-4). The mention of the Jordan here emphasizes the importance of the river as a dividing line, both physically and spiritually, and sets the stage for the potential conflict over the altar's location.

on the side belonging to the Israelites
This phrase clarifies that the altar was built on the side of the Jordan that belonged to the Israelites, not in the territory of the Transjordan tribes. This detail is crucial because it suggests that the altar's construction could be seen as an encroachment or a challenge to the established religious order. The Israelites' concern was likely rooted in the fear of unauthorized worship practices that could lead to idolatry, a recurring issue in Israel's history. The phrase underscores the importance of maintaining religious purity and unity within the nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reubenites, Gadites, and the Half-Tribe of Manasseh
These are the tribes that settled on the east side of the Jordan River. They built an altar, which led to a misunderstanding with the other tribes of Israel.

2. The Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel who were concerned about the altar built by the eastern tribes, fearing it represented rebellion against God.

3. The Altar
Constructed by the eastern tribes, it was initially perceived as a potential threat to the unity and religious purity of Israel.

4. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary that separated the eastern tribes from the rest of Israel, symbolizing potential division.

5. The Land of Canaan
The Promised Land where the majority of the Israelites settled, representing God's promise and blessing.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The tribes of Israel, though geographically separated, were called to maintain unity. In the church today, believers may have different roles or locations but are united in Christ.

Communication and Understanding
The initial reaction to the altar was based on assumption. This teaches the importance of seeking understanding and clear communication before jumping to conclusions.

Guarding Against Division
Just as the Israelites were concerned about potential division, Christians must be vigilant against anything that threatens the unity of the church.

Symbolism and Intent
The altar was a symbol of witness, not rebellion. This highlights the importance of understanding the intent behind actions and symbols in our faith communities.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The Israelites' concern was rooted in a desire to remain faithful to God's commands. This underscores the importance of obedience and vigilance in our spiritual walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the reaction of the Israelites to the altar about the importance of unity in the body of Christ?

2. How does the account of the altar built by the eastern tribes challenge us to seek understanding before making judgments?

3. In what ways can geographical or cultural differences within the church today lead to misunderstandings, and how can we address them?

4. How does the concept of a "witness" altar relate to our call to be witnesses for Christ in our communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a misunderstanding in your faith community. How did you resolve it, and what biblical principles guided you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
Discusses the centralization of worship and the prohibition against unauthorized altars, which is relevant to the concern of the Israelites in Joshua 22.

Numbers 32
Provides background on the agreement that allowed the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, highlighting their commitment to the unity of Israel.

Ephesians 4
Speaks to the unity of the body of Christ, which can be paralleled to the unity sought among the tribes of Israel.