◄ Joshua 22 ►
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The Eastern Tribes Return Home 1Then Joshua summoned the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh 2and told them, “You have done all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and you have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you. 3All this time you have not deserted your brothers, up to this very day, but have kept the charge given you by the LORD your God. 4And now that the LORD your God has given your brothers rest as He promised them, you may return to your homes in the land that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you across the Jordan. 5But be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” 6So Joshua blessed them and sent them on their way, and they went to their homes. 7(To the half-tribe of Manasseh Moses had given land in Bashan, and to the other half Joshua gave land on the west side of the Jordan among their brothers.) When Joshua sent them to their homes he blessed them, 8saying, “Return to your homes with your great wealth, with immense herds of livestock, with silver, gold, bronze, iron, and very many clothes. Divide with your brothers the spoil of your enemies.” The Altar of Witness 9So the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh left the Israelites at Shiloh in the land of Canaan to return to their own land of Gilead, which they had acquired according to the command of the LORD through Moses. 10And when they came to Gelilotha near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan. 11Then 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.” 12And when they heard this, the whole congregation of Israel assembled at Shiloh to go to war against them. 13The Israelites sent Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest to the land of Gilead, to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. 14With him they sent ten chiefs—one family leader from each tribe of Israel, each the head of a family among the clans of Israel. 15They went to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in the land of Gilead and said to them, 16“This is what the whole congregation of the LORD says: ‘What is this breach of faith you have committed today against the God of Israel by turning away from the LORD and building for yourselves an altar, that you might rebel against the LORD this day? 17Was not the sin of Peor enough for us, from which we have not cleansed ourselves to this day? It even brought a plague upon the congregation of the LORD. 18And now, would you turn away from the LORD? If you rebel today against the LORD, tomorrow He will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel. 19If indeed the land of your inheritance is unclean, then cross over to the land of the LORD’s possession, where the LORD’s tabernacle stands, and take possession of it among us. But do not rebel against the LORD or against us by building for yourselves an altar other than the altar of the LORD our God. 20Was not Achanb son of Zerah unfaithful regarding what was set apart for destruction,c bringing wrath upon the whole congregation of Israel? Yet it was not only Achan who perished because of his sin!’” 21Then the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh answered the leaders of the clans of Israel: 22“The LORD, the Mighty One, is God! The LORD, the Mighty One, is God! He knows, and may Israel also know. If this was in rebellion or breach of faith against the LORD, do not spare us today. 23If we have built for ourselves an altar to turn away from Him and to offer burnt offerings and grain offerings on it, or to sacrifice peace offerings on it, may the LORD Himself hold us accountable. 24But in fact we have done this for fear that in the future your descendants might say to ours, ‘What have you to do with the LORD, the God of Israel? 25For the LORD has made the Jordan a border between us and you Reubenites and Gadites. You have no share in the LORD!’ So your descendants could cause ours to stop fearing the LORD. 26That is why we said, ‘Let us take action and build an altar for ourselves, but not for burnt offerings or sacrifices. 27Rather, let it be a witness between us and you and the generations to come, that we will worship the LORD in His presence with our burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings.’ Then in the future, your descendants cannot say to ours, ‘You have no share in the LORD!’ 28Therefore we said, ‘If they ever say this to us or to our descendants, we will answer: Look at the replica of the altar of the LORD that our fathers made, not for burnt offerings or sacrifices, but as a witness between us and you.’ 29Far be it from us to rebel against the LORD and turn away from Him today by building an altar for burnt offerings, grain offerings, or sacrifices, other than the altar of the LORD our God, which stands before His tabernacle.” 30When Phinehas the priest and the chiefs of the congregation—the heads of Israel’s clans who were with him—heard what the descendants of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh had to say, they were satisfied. 31Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest said to the descendants of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh, “Today we know that the LORD is among us, because you have not committed this breach of faith against Him. Consequently, you have delivered the Israelites from the hand of the LORD.” 32Then Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest, together with the other leaders, returned to the Israelites in the land of Canaan and brought back a report regarding the Reubenites and Gadites in the land of Gilead. 33The Israelites were satisfied with the report, and they blessed God and spoke no more about going to war against them to destroy the land where the Reubenites and Gadites lived. 34So the Reubenites and Gadites named the altar Witness, for they said,d “It is a witness between us that the LORD is God.” Footnotes: 10 a Or to the circle of stones or to the region; similarly in verse 11 20 b Achan means troubler; also called Achar in 1 Chronicles 2:7. 20 c Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering. 34 d Literally named the altar, for Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 22 Summary The Altar of Witness Verses 1–6 – Faithful Service Rewarded Joshua summons the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. He thanks them for keeping their promise to fight beside their brothers until the land was secured. He blesses them, urges them to “love the LORD your God, walk in all His ways, keep His commandments, hold fast to Him, and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul” (v. 5), and sends them home laden with livestock, silver, gold, bronze, iron, and great quantities of clothing. Verses 7–9 – Homeward Bound with Blessings Moses had earlier given these tribes land east of the Jordan, yet half of Manasseh had also received territory west of the river. Joshua now releases the eastern contingent. They depart from Shiloh, heading to Gilead, carrying the spoils of war to share with their families. Verses 10–12 – A Great Altar Raises Alarm Arriving at the Jordan, the eastern tribes build “a large and imposing altar” (v. 10) on the Israelite side of the river. The rest of Israel hears of it and, fearing it is a rival altar for sacrifices, gathers at Shiloh ready to wage war to protect the purity of worship. Verses 13–20 – Confrontation and Concern A delegation of ten tribal leaders, headed by Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest, confronts the eastern tribes. Citing the disasters of Peor and Achan, they plead, “Today you are rebelling against the LORD… if you rebel today, He will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel tomorrow” (v. 18). Verses 21–29 – Clarification: An Altar of Witness, not Rebellion The eastern tribes respond passionately. They swear by “God, the LORD God” (v. 22) that they built the altar only as a witness so future generations will know they share the same covenant. It will not be used for burnt offerings or sacrifices, lest they violate the command to worship at the LORD’s Tabernacle. Verses 30–34 – Reconciliation and the Name “Witness” Phinehas and the leaders are satisfied. War is averted. The altar is named “A Witness between us that the LORD is God” (v. 34). The people return home in peace, and Israel’s unity is preserved. This chapter covers the return of the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh to their own lands after faithfully serving their brothers, their construction of an altar that stirs misunderstanding and tension among the Israelites, and the subsequent reconciliation and reaffirmation of unity. Historical Setting and Geographic Notes • The Transjordan allotments (Reuben, Gad, half-Manasseh) lie east of the Jordan in modern-day Jordan and Syria, rich in pastureland (Numbers 32:1). • Shiloh, Israel’s worship center at this time (Joshua 18:1), is roughly 20 miles north of Jerusalem. • The altar’s location “by the Jordan, on the side belonging to the Israelites” (22:11) likely sat on the west bank, visible from both sides, emphasizing its role as a bridge rather than a barrier. The Transjordan Tribes: Commitment and Covenant 1. Their pledge was first made to Moses (Numbers 32:16-24) and reaffirmed to Joshua (Joshua 1:12-18). 2. They kept that promise for at least seven years of conquest, illustrating that obedience may be long, costly, and communal. 3. Joshua’s blessing mirrors Moses’ final charge (Deuteronomy 30:16-20), underscoring that love for God is action-oriented. Joshua’s Blessing: Rewards for Obedience • Material spoils: “much wealth” (22:8) answer God’s earlier promise (Deuteronomy 8:18). • Spiritual charge: five verbs—love, walk, keep, cling, serve (v. 5)—outline a whole-life devotion echoed by Jesus in Mark 12:30. The Altar by the Jordan: Cultural and Religious Background • Stone altars were common memorials (Genesis 12:7-8; 28:18). • Deuteronomy 12 centralized sacrifice at the Tabernacle to guard against idolatry. • By building a NON-sacrificial altar, the eastern tribes balanced remembrance with obedience. Israel’s Zeal for Purity • The nation’s swift reaction shows corporate responsibility: “A little leaven leavens the whole lump” (Galatians 5:9). • Phinehas, famous for ending the plague at Peor (Numbers 25:7-13), embodies righteous zeal that protects the community. Phinehas’ Delegation: Mediation and Reconciliation Step 1 – Investigation: They go in person, avoiding rumor-based judgment (Proverbs 18:13). Step 2 – Honest Confrontation: Sin is named plainly (Matthew 18:15). Step 3 – Listening: Space is given for explanation (James 1:19). Step 4 – Peace: When truth is clear, reconciliation replaces conflict (Romans 12:18). Avoiding Civil War: Unity and Witness • Psalm 133 celebrates such unity: “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” • Ephesians 4:3 urges believers to “keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace,” reflecting the same heartbeat. Name of the Altar: “Witness” • Similar witness monuments: the stone at Shechem (Joshua 24:26-27); the heap of stones between Jacob and Laban (Genesis 31:48-49). • The altar affirms shared identity: one God, one covenant, one people—even when geography separates us. Archaeological Insights • Numerous Iron Age altars in Transjordan attest to early Israelite presence. Square stone platforms near Tell ed-Damiyeh, close to the Jordan crossings, resemble memorial altars rather than sacrificial ones. • Shiloh excavations reveal storage jars and cultic installations, affirming it as Israel’s worship hub during Joshua and Judges. Practical Applications for Today • Keep promises even when they outlast initial enthusiasm. • Guard against division that springs from assumptions; investigate before you accuse. • Memorials—whether a journal entry, a family tradition, or a church anniversary—can remind coming generations of God’s faithfulness. • Seek unity that does not compromise truth; speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Connections to Additional Scriptures Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. This verse underscores the importance of seeking peace and understanding, as demonstrated by the Israelites' approach to resolving the misunderstanding. Ephesians 4:3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. This passage encourages believers to prioritize unity, echoing the themes in Joshua 22. Proverbs 18:13 He who answers before he hears—this is folly and disgrace to him. This proverb highlights the wisdom of seeking understanding before making judgments. Teaching Points Obedience and Fulfillment of Duty The chapter begins with Joshua commending the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh for their obedience and fulfillment of their duty to help their fellow Israelites conquer the Promised Land. Joshua 22:2-3 states, You have done all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and you have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you. You have not deserted your brothers these many days to this day, but have kept the charge of the commandment of the LORD your God. The Altar of Witness The tribes build an altar by the Jordan River, which is initially misunderstood by the other Israelites as an act of rebellion against God. Joshua 22:10 says, When they came to Geliloth near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan. Misunderstanding and Conflict Resolution The rest of Israel prepares for war, believing the altar signifies idolatry. However, before acting, they send a delegation to understand the intentions behind the altar. This highlights the importance of seeking understanding before jumping to conclusions. A Testimony of Unity and Faithfulness The altar is explained as a witness between the tribes, ensuring future generations remember their shared faith and unity. Joshua 22:34 concludes, And the Reubenites and Gadites named the altar Witness, 'For they said, 'It is a witness between us that the LORD is God.' Practical Applications Seek Clarity Before Conflict Before reacting to a perceived wrong, seek to understand the intentions and perspectives of others. This can prevent unnecessary conflict and promote peace. Value Unity Among Believers Just as the tribes sought to maintain unity, we should strive for unity within the body of Christ, recognizing our shared faith and purpose. Be a Witness for Future Generations Like the altar served as a witness, our lives and actions should testify to our faith in God, leaving a legacy for those who come after us. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the leader of the Israelites who succeeded Moses. In this chapter, he summons the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to commend them for their obedience and to send them back to their allotted lands (Joshua 22:1). 2. The Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh These are the tribes who had settled on the east side of the Jordan River. They are commended by Joshua for their faithfulness and are sent back to their lands with blessings (Joshua 22:1-4). 3. Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest Phinehas is the son of Eleazar and the grandson of Aaron. He is sent by the Israelites to confront the eastern tribes about the altar they built, which was initially perceived as an act of rebellion against God (Joshua 22:13). 4. Eleazar Although not directly involved in the events of this chapter, Eleazar is mentioned as the father of Phinehas. He is the high priest of Israel during this time (Joshua 22:13). 5. The leaders of the Israelite clans These leaders accompany Phinehas to speak with the eastern tribes. They represent the collective concern of the Israelites regarding the altar built by the eastern tribes (Joshua 22:14). In this chapter, the focus is on the interaction between these groups and individuals, particularly concerning the potential misunderstanding about the altar built by the eastern tribes. The Hebrew roots of the names, such as "Phinehas" (פִּינְחָס) meaning "mouth of brass," and "Eleazar" (אֶלְעָזָר) meaning "God has helped," provide additional context to their roles and significance in the narrative. Places 1. Shiloh Shiloh is where the Israelites gathered to discuss the issue of the altar built by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. It was a significant religious center for Israel, where the Tabernacle was located. The Hebrew root for Shiloh (שִׁלוֹ) can imply a place of rest or tranquility. 2. Gilead Gilead is the region east of the Jordan River where the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh settled. It is known for its balm and rugged terrain. The name Gilead (גִּלְעָד) is often associated with a "heap of stones" or "witness." 3. Jordan The Jordan River is a significant geographical boundary in the narrative, separating the land of Canaan from the territories east of the river. It is central to the dispute over the altar, as it represents a division between the tribes. The Hebrew root for Jordan (יַרְדֵּן) means "to descend," reflecting the river's flow from the highlands to the Dead Sea. 4. Canaan Canaan refers to the land west of the Jordan River, where the majority of the Israelite tribes settled. It is the Promised Land given to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The name Canaan (כְּנַעַן) is thought to mean "lowland" or "humble." 5. Geliloth Geliloth is mentioned as a location near the Jordan River where the altar was built. The name Geliloth (גְּלִילוֹת) can be related to "circles" or "regions," indicating a boundary or district. Events 1. Joshua Commends the Eastern Tribes Joshua calls the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, commending them for obeying Moses and himself, and for not abandoning their fellow Israelites. He acknowledges their faithfulness to the commands given by the LORD (Joshua 22:1-3). 2. Joshua Releases the Eastern Tribes Joshua blesses the Eastern tribes and releases them to return to their homes on the east side of the Jordan River, reminding them to continue to obey the commandments and the law given by Moses, to love the LORD, and to serve Him with all their heart and soul (Joshua 22:4-6). 3. The Eastern Tribes Build an Altar Upon returning to the region of the Jordan, the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh build a large and imposing altar by the Jordan River (Joshua 22:10). 4. Israel Reacts to the Altar The rest of the Israelites hear about the altar and gather at Shiloh to go to war against the Eastern tribes, believing the altar to be an act of rebellion against the LORD (Joshua 22:11-12). 5. Delegation Sent to the Eastern Tribes The Israelites send Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, along with ten chiefs, one from each of the tribes of Israel, to confront the Eastern tribes about the altar (Joshua 22:13-14). 6. Accusation of Rebellion The delegation accuses the Eastern tribes of rebelling against the LORD by building the altar, referencing past transgressions such as the sin of Peor and Achan's sin, which brought trouble upon the entire community (Joshua 22:15-20). 7. Eastern Tribes Explain the Altar The Eastern tribes explain that the altar is not for burnt offerings or sacrifices, but as a witness between them and the other Israelites, to ensure future generations remember that they too worship the LORD (Joshua 22:21-29). 8. Peace Restored Phinehas and the leaders are pleased with the explanation and recognize that the LORD is among them, preventing any rebellion. They return to Canaan and report to the Israelites, who are also pleased and praise God, abandoning plans for war (Joshua 22:30-33). 9. The Altar Named Witness The Eastern tribes name the altar "Witness," signifying that it serves as a testimony between them that the LORD is God (Joshua 22:34). Lessons from Joshua 22 1. Unity in Diversity In Joshua 22, we see the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh returning to their lands east of the Jordan. Despite their geographical separation, they remain part of the larger community of Israel. This teaches us the importance of unity among believers, even when we are in different places or situations. As Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 12:12, "For just as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of that body, though many, are one body, so also is Christ." Unity in diversity is a powerful testimony to the world. 2. The Importance of Obedience Joshua commends these tribes for their obedience to God's commands and to Moses' instructions. Obedience is a recurring theme in Scripture, and it is crucial for a life that honors God. As Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." Obedience is not just about following rules; it's about expressing our love and commitment to God. 3. Building Memorials of Faith The tribes build an altar as a witness between them and the rest of Israel. This act serves as a reminder of their shared faith and commitment to God. In our lives, we can create "memorials" by remembering and celebrating God's faithfulness. Psalm 77:11 encourages us, "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old." 4. Avoiding Misunderstandings When the rest of Israel hears about the altar, they initially misunderstand its purpose, thinking it signifies rebellion. This highlights the importance of clear communication and seeking understanding before jumping to conclusions. Proverbs 18:13 wisely advises, "He who answers a matter before he hears it—this is folly and disgrace to him." 5. The Power of Reconciliation Once the misunderstanding is cleared up, the tribes reconcile, preventing potential conflict. This teaches us the value of reconciliation and peacemaking. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Reconciliation reflects God's heart and brings glory to His name. 6. The Role of Leadership Phinehas and the leaders of Israel play a crucial role in resolving the conflict. Their leadership and wisdom prevent a civil war. This reminds us of the importance of godly leadership in guiding and protecting the community of faith. Hebrews 13:17 encourages us to "obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who must give an account." 7. The Significance of Witnesses The altar is named "A Witness Between Us that the LORD is God." This serves as a testimony to future generations of their shared faith. Our lives, too, should be a witness to others of God's goodness and truth. Acts 1:8 calls us to be witnesses, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." 8. The Blessing of Peace The chapter concludes with peace among the tribes, a blessing that comes from resolving conflict and maintaining unity. Peace is a gift from God and a fruit of the Spirit. Philippians 4:7 promises, "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 9. The Joy of Obedience Joshua blesses the tribes for their faithfulness, and they return home with joy. Obedience to God brings joy and fulfillment, as we align our lives with His will. Psalm 119:2 declares, "Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart." 10. The Legacy of Faith The actions of these tribes leave a legacy of faith for future generations. Our faithfulness today can impact those who come after us. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs us, "These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts. You shall teach them diligently to your children." Let us strive to leave a legacy that honors God and inspires others. Topics 1. The Eastern Tribes Return Home Joshua 22:1-6 describes how Joshua summons the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to commend them for their obedience and faithfulness in helping the other tribes conquer the Promised Land. He blesses them and sends them back to their own lands east of the Jordan River. The Hebrew root for "bless" (בָּרַךְ, barak) signifies a divine favor and empowerment for prosperity and peace. 2. The Altar of Witness In Joshua 22:10, the Eastern tribes build a large altar by the Jordan River. This act raises concerns among the other Israelites, as it appears to be a potential breach of covenant, suggesting a separate place of worship. The Hebrew word for "altar" (מִזְבֵּחַ, mizbeach) is significant as it denotes a place of sacrifice and worship, central to Israel's covenant relationship with God. 3. The Concern of the Western Tribes Joshua 22:11-12 details the reaction of the Western tribes upon hearing about the altar. They gather at Shiloh to prepare for war, fearing that the altar signifies rebellion against God. This reflects the seriousness of maintaining unity and purity in worship, as commanded in the Mosaic Law. 4. The Delegation to the Eastern Tribes In Joshua 22:13-20, a delegation led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, is sent to confront the Eastern tribes. They remind them of past transgressions, such as the sin of Peor and Achan's sin, emphasizing the communal consequences of individual disobedience. The Hebrew term for "transgression" (מַעַל, ma'al) implies a breach of trust or faithfulness. 5. The Eastern Tribes' Defense Joshua 22:21-29 records the Eastern tribes' defense, explaining that the altar is not for sacrifices but as a witness between them and the other tribes. They assert their loyalty to God, using the Hebrew word for "witness" (עֵד, ed), which underscores the altar's role as a testimony to their shared faith and covenant. 6. Resolution and Reconciliation In Joshua 22:30-34, Phinehas and the leaders accept the explanation, and peace is restored. The altar is named "A Witness Between Us that the LORD is God," affirming unity and shared worship. The Hebrew name given to the altar, "Ed," encapsulates the reconciliation and mutual understanding achieved. Themes 1. Obedience to God's Commandments The chapter begins with Joshua commending the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh for their obedience to God's commandments. Joshua 22:2 states, "You have done all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and you have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you." The Hebrew root for "obeyed" (שָׁמַע, shama) emphasizes listening and acting upon God's word. 2. Unity Among the Tribes of Israel Joshua emphasizes the importance of unity among the tribes, despite their geographical separation. In Joshua 22:4, he says, "And now that the LORD your God has given your brothers rest, as He promised them, return to your homes in the land that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the other side of the Jordan." The theme of unity is crucial for maintaining the collective identity and faithfulness of Israel. 3. Faithfulness to the Covenant The tribes are reminded to remain faithful to the covenant with God. Joshua 22:5 instructs, "But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul." The Hebrew word for "hold fast" (דָּבַק, dabaq) implies a deep, clinging loyalty to God. 4. Misunderstanding and Conflict Resolution A potential conflict arises when the other tribes hear about an altar built by the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Joshua 22:11-12 describes the initial misunderstanding: "And when the Israelites heard that they had built an altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them." This theme highlights the importance of communication and seeking understanding before jumping to conclusions. 5. Witness and Testimony The altar built by the eastern tribes is intended as a witness to future generations. In Joshua 22:27, they explain, "But it is to be a witness between us and you and the generations to come, that we will worship the LORD at His sanctuary with our burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings." The Hebrew word for "witness" (עֵד, ed) signifies a testimony or evidence of their shared faith and commitment to God. 6. Reconciliation and Peace The chapter concludes with reconciliation and peace among the tribes. After the explanation, the Israelites are satisfied, and conflict is averted. Joshua 22:33 states, "The Israelites were pleased with the report, and they blessed God; and they spoke no more about going to war against them to devastate the land where the Reubenites and Gadites lived." This theme underscores the value of peaceful resolution and unity in the community of faith. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment to seek understanding and clarity in our relationships and interactions. Ask God to help us be peacemakers and maintain unity within the body of Christ. Pray for the strength to live as witnesses of our faith, leaving a legacy of faithfulness for future generations. Seek God's guidance in resolving conflicts and misunderstandings in a manner that honors Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile the building of a separate altar in Joshua 22:10 with earlier commands to worship at one central sanctuary? 2. Why does Joshua 22:12 describe such a swift and violent response if the tribes’ intentions were innocent, yet no physical confrontation ultimately ensued? 3. Where is the historical or archaeological evidence of this altar mentioned in Joshua 22:10, considering its significance to the nation’s unity? 4. How does Joshua 22 align with other passages that mandate a single place of worship (e.g., Deuteronomy 12), and why is there no mention of God’s direct intervention here? 5. If the eastern tribes truly risked idolatry, as it appears in Joshua 22:16-18, why does the narrative not record any divine punishment or sign to confirm the seriousness of the offense? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What can we learn from the obedience of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh? 2. In modern terms, how can we "observe the commandment and the law" as told by Joshua? 3. How does the reaction of the Israelites to the construction of the altar reflect their dedication to God? 4. How can misunderstandings in faith and practices lead to conflicts within a community? 5. Why did the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh build an altar, and how can we relate this to the ways we ensure continuity of faith in our families? 6. What does the incident of the altar teach us about the importance of communication in resolving conflicts? 7. How does the explanation of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh reflect their faithfulness to God? 8. How can you avoid misunderstandings in your religious community? 9. How can we create "altars" or symbols that remind us of our faith in God? 10. How does this chapter challenge you to maintain unity within your community of faith? 11. Reflect on a time when you faced a misunderstanding because of your faith. How did you handle it? 12. What measures can we take to prevent "breach of faith" in our communities? 13. How does Phinehas' response represent wise leadership? 14. How can we apply the principle of understanding and reconciliation in our daily life? 15. How can you encourage others in your community to avoid hasty judgements and seek understanding first? 16. How did this incident strengthen the unity among the tribes of Israel? 17. How can you create a "witness" in your life to remind you and others of God's presence? 18. Why was naming the altar important for the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh? 19. What can you do today to ensure that your actions are not misinterpreted by others? 20. How can we ensure that our actions today serve as a positive witness for future generations? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions