Joshua 22:10

And when they came to Geliloth 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.

Study Bible

When they came to Geliloth
The phrase "when they came to Geliloth" marks a significant geographical and narrative transition. Geliloth, meaning "circles" or "regions" in Hebrew, is a location near the Jordan River. This site is pivotal as it represents a boundary between the land east of the Jordan, where the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh settled, and the land of Canaan. The crossing of the Jordan was a monumental event for the Israelites, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. Geliloth serves as a reminder of the unity and shared heritage of the tribes, despite their geographical separation.

near the Jordan
The Jordan River is a central geographical feature in the biblical narrative, often symbolizing transition and transformation. It was the river that the Israelites miraculously crossed to enter the Promised Land, and it is frequently associated with purification and new beginnings. The proximity to the Jordan in this verse underscores the importance of the location for the tribes involved. It is a place of both physical and spiritual significance, reminding the Israelites of God's providence and the covenantal promises associated with the land.

in the land of Canaan
Canaan is the land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is a land flowing with milk and honey, representing God's provision and blessing. The mention of Canaan here emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of the Israelites in the land. It also highlights the tension between the settled tribes and those who chose to live east of the Jordan, raising questions about unity and faithfulness to God's commands.

the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes were granted land on the east side of the Jordan River, as recorded in Numbers 32. Their decision to settle there was initially met with concern, as it seemed to separate them from the rest of Israel. However, they pledged to support their fellow Israelites in conquering Canaan. This verse highlights their return to their allotted land and their continued connection to the larger community of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and cooperation among God's people, even when physically separated.

built an imposing altar
The construction of an altar is a significant act of worship and remembrance in the biblical context. Altars were places of sacrifice, prayer, and covenant renewal. The adjective "imposing" suggests that this altar was large and meant to be noticed, possibly indicating its importance as a symbol of unity and shared faith. However, it also foreshadows the potential for misunderstanding and conflict, as the other tribes might perceive it as a rival altar to the one at the tabernacle, threatening the unity of worship.

there by the Jordan
The location "there by the Jordan" is crucial, as it situates the altar at a boundary between the tribes. The Jordan River, a natural divider, becomes a place of connection through the altar. This act of building an altar at such a significant location suggests an intention to maintain spiritual unity and continuity with the rest of Israel. It serves as a physical reminder of their shared faith and commitment to the covenant, despite the geographical separation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reubenites, Gadites, and the Half-Tribe of Manasseh
These are the tribes who settled on the east side of the Jordan River. They were returning to their land after helping the other tribes conquer Canaan.

2. Geliloth
A location near the Jordan River in the land of Canaan where the tribes built the altar. The name "Geliloth" is derived from the Hebrew root "galal," meaning "to roll" or "to encircle," possibly indicating a circular or significant landmark.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical and spiritual boundary for the Israelites, symbolizing the transition from the wilderness into the Promised Land.

4. The Altar
An imposing structure built by the eastern tribes, which later caused concern among the other Israelites, fearing it was for unauthorized worship.

5. The Land of Canaan
The Promised Land given to the Israelites, representing God's fulfilled promise to Abraham and his descendants.

Teaching Points

Unity in Worship
The building of the altar by the Jordan highlights the importance of unity in worship among God's people. It serves as a reminder that worship should be centered on God's instructions and not personal preferences.

Communication and Understanding
The initial misunderstanding about the altar underscores the need for clear communication and seeking understanding before jumping to conclusions.

Symbolism of the Altar
The altar was meant as a witness between the tribes, symbolizing their shared faith and heritage. It reminds us of the importance of visible symbols in our faith that testify to our beliefs and commitments.

Guarding Against Division
The incident teaches the importance of addressing potential sources of division promptly and with a spirit of reconciliation.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The concern over the altar reflects the broader biblical theme of faithfulness to God's commands, emphasizing the need for obedience in worship practices.

Bible Study Questions

1. What was the significance of the location where the altar was built, and how does it relate to the tribes' identity and mission?

2. How can we apply the principle of unity in worship in our local church communities today?

3. In what ways can misunderstandings among believers be resolved, as demonstrated in the account of the altar?

4. How do visible symbols in our faith communities serve as reminders of our shared beliefs and commitments?

5. What lessons can we learn from the tribes' actions about the importance of faithfulness to God's commands in our personal and communal worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
This chapter emphasizes the importance of worshiping God in the place He chooses, highlighting the concern over unauthorized altars.

Numbers 32
This passage details the agreement allowing the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, contingent on their support in conquering Canaan.

1 Kings 12
The account of Jeroboam building altars in Bethel and Dan, which parallels the concern over unauthorized worship sites.