In the biblical narrative, the allocation of land to the tribes of Israel is a significant event, marking the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were granted territories east of the Jordan River, a region known for its fertile lands and strategic locations. This allocation is detailed in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Joshua, where specific cities are designated for these tribes.

Tribe of Reuben:

The tribe of Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, received its inheritance in the southern part of the Transjordan. The cities allocated to Reuben included Heshbon, Dibon, Bamoth-baal, and Beth-baal-meon, among others. These cities were part of the kingdom of Sihon, king of the Amorites, whom the Israelites defeated under Moses' leadership. The Berean Standard Bible in Numbers 32:37-38 states, "The Reubenites rebuilt Heshbon, Elealeh, and Kiriathaim, as well as Nebo and Baal Meon (their names being changed) and Sibmah. They gave names to the cities they rebuilt."

Tribe of Gad:

The tribe of Gad settled in the central region of the Transjordan, an area known for its rich pastures suitable for their large herds. Key cities for the Gadites included Jazer, Gilead, and Ramoth in Gilead. The BSB in Numbers 32:34-36 records, "The Gadites built up Dibon, Ataroth, Aroer, Atroth-shophan, Jazer, Jogbehah, Beth-nimrah, and Beth-haran as fortified cities, and they built folds for their flocks."

Half-Tribe of Manasseh:

The half-tribe of Manasseh was granted land in the northern part of the Transjordan, extending to Bashan. This area was previously ruled by Og, king of Bashan, another formidable foe defeated by the Israelites. The cities of Ashtaroth and Edrei were significant locations within this territory. Joshua 13:31 notes, "Half of Gilead, and Ashtaroth and Edrei, the royal cities of Og in Bashan, were for the descendants of Machir son of Manasseh—for half of the sons of Machir, according to their clans."

Significance and Legacy:

The allocation of these cities to the tribes east of the Jordan was not merely a matter of territorial division but also a testament to God's faithfulness in providing for His people. These cities served as centers of administration, worship, and community life for the tribes. The strategic locations of these cities also played a crucial role in the defense and economic stability of the Israelite nation.

The cities east of the Jordan, while geographically separated from the main body of Israel, remained integral to the nation's identity and spiritual heritage. The tribes' commitment to the covenant and their participation in national affairs, such as military campaigns and religious observances, underscored their unity with their brethren west of the Jordan.