Joshua 22:6

So Joshua blessed them and sent them on their way, and they went to their homes.

Study Bible

So Joshua blessed them
The act of blessing in the Hebrew context, "בָּרַךְ" (barak), is deeply rooted in the idea of invoking divine favor and protection. Joshua, as the leader appointed by God, had the authority to confer blessings upon the people. This blessing signifies a transfer of God’s favor and a recognition of the faithfulness and obedience of the tribes involved. In the broader biblical narrative, blessings often precede significant transitions or journeys, underscoring the importance of divine guidance and approval in the lives of the Israelites.

and sent them on their way
The phrase "sent them on their way" indicates a formal dismissal, a release from duty, and a transition to a new phase of life. In the Hebrew context, this sending off is not merely a physical departure but a spiritual and communal release. Joshua, having fulfilled his role in leading these tribes, now entrusts them to continue their journey with the assurance of God’s presence. This act reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where leaders guide and then release individuals to fulfill their God-given purposes.

and they went to their homes
The return "to their homes" signifies a return to normalcy and the fulfillment of God’s promise to give the Israelites a land of their own. The Hebrew word for home, "בַּיִת" (bayit), encompasses not just a physical dwelling but also a place of rest, family, and community. This return marks the completion of a mission and the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of these tribes. It is a reminder of God’s faithfulness in providing for His people and the importance of community and family in the biblical narrative. The journey back to their homes is symbolic of the peace and stability that God desires for His people, reflecting the ultimate rest found in Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, who led the people into the Promised Land. In this verse, he acts as a spiritual leader, blessing the tribes before they return to their homes.

2. The Tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the Half-Tribe of Manasseh
These tribes had settled on the east side of the Jordan River. They had fulfilled their commitment to help the other tribes conquer the land west of the Jordan and were now returning home.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary in the account, symbolizing the division between the land of Canaan and the territories east of the Jordan.

4. The Promised Land
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The tribes had been fighting to secure this land for the Israelites.

5. Blessing
A significant act in the Hebrew tradition, often invoking God's favor and protection. Joshua's blessing signifies approval and a prayer for God's continued presence with the tribes.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to Commitments
The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh honored their commitment to help their fellow Israelites. This teaches us the importance of keeping our promises and being faithful in our duties.

Leadership and Blessing
Joshua's role as a leader who blesses his people highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and the power of blessing others in our communities.

Rest and Reward
After fulfilling their obligations, the tribes return home, symbolizing rest and reward. This reflects the biblical principle that faithfulness leads to peace and rest.

Unity Among Believers
Despite geographical separation, the tribes remained united in purpose. This encourages us to maintain unity and support within the body of Christ, even when physically apart.

God's Faithfulness
The return of the tribes to their homes is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We can trust in God's promises in our own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commitment of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to their fellow Israelites challenge us in our commitments to others today?

2. In what ways can we, like Joshua, be a source of blessing and encouragement to those around us?

3. How does the concept of rest after fulfilling one's duties apply to our spiritual lives, and what does it teach us about God's promises?

4. What are some practical ways we can maintain unity and support within our church or community, even when we are not physically together?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life. How does this encourage you to trust Him with your current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 33
Moses' blessings to the tribes of Israel before his death. This parallels Joshua's role in blessing the tribes, showing continuity in leadership and God's promises.

Numbers 32
The agreement between Moses and the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, contingent on their support in conquering Canaan.

Genesis 12
God's promise to Abraham about the land, which sets the stage for the events in Joshua as the fulfillment of that promise.

Hebrews 4
Discusses the concept of rest, which can be connected to the tribes returning home after fulfilling their duties, symbolizing a form of rest and peace.