The Eastern Tribes, specifically the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, hold a significant place in the narrative of the Israelites' settlement in the Promised Land. These tribes were allotted land on the eastern side of the Jordan River, as recorded in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Joshua. Their account is marked by a notable event involving the construction of an altar, which is detailed in Joshua 22.

Background and Settlement

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh requested to settle in the fertile lands of Gilead and Bashan, east of the Jordan River, due to their large herds and flocks. Moses granted their request on the condition that they assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan. After fulfilling their military obligations, they returned to their allotted territories.

The Altar of Witness

Upon their return, the Eastern Tribes constructed a large altar by the Jordan River. This act immediately raised concerns among the other Israelite tribes, who feared it signified rebellion against the LORD and a potential breach of the covenant. The central place of worship was to be the Tabernacle at Shiloh, and any unauthorized altar could be seen as idolatrous or schismatic.

The Western Tribes, led by Phinehas the priest and ten chiefs, confronted the Eastern Tribes at Gilead. They expressed their fear that the altar represented a turning away from the LORD, reminiscent of past transgressions like the sin of Peor and the rebellion of Korah.

Explanation and Resolution

The Eastern Tribes explained that the altar was not for burnt offerings or sacrifices but was intended as a "witness" between them and the other tribes. They feared that future generations might question their share in the LORD, given their geographical separation by the Jordan River. The altar was meant to serve as a reminder that they too were part of the covenant community of Israel.

In Joshua 22:24-27 , they state, "We did 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? For the LORD has made the Jordan a border between us and you, you Reubenites and Gadites. You have no share in the LORD!’ So your descendants might cause ours to stop fearing the LORD. That is why we said, ‘Let us take action and build an altar for ourselves, but not for burnt offerings or sacrifices. Instead, it will be a witness between us and you and the generations to come, so that we may perform the service of the LORD in His presence with our burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings.’"

Phinehas and the delegation accepted this explanation, recognizing the altar as a legitimate symbol of unity and not rebellion. They praised God for preventing conflict and acknowledged the Eastern Tribes' faithfulness to the LORD.

Significance

The incident of the altar highlights the importance of unity and communication within the covenant community. It underscores the need for mutual understanding and the dangers of assumptions. The altar, named "Witness," served as a testament to the shared faith and heritage of all the tribes of Israel, despite their physical separation. This event reflects the broader biblical theme of maintaining fidelity to God and the covenant, while also addressing potential divisions within the people of God.