The concern of the Western Tribes is a significant event recorded in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 22. This episode highlights the potential for misunderstanding and conflict among the tribes of Israel and underscores the importance of communication and unity within the covenant community.

Context and Background

After the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership, the land was distributed among the twelve tribes of Israel. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had chosen to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River, in the land of Gilead, as their inheritance. This decision was made with the understanding that they would assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own territories (Numbers 32:1-33).

The Altar of Witness

Upon fulfilling their military obligations, the Eastern Tribes returned to their lands. However, before crossing the Jordan, they built a large altar by the river. This act immediately raised concerns among the Western Tribes, who feared that the altar signified a rebellion against the LORD and a potential breach of the covenant. The Western Tribes interpreted the altar as a rival place of worship, which could lead to idolatry and divine judgment upon the entire nation.

Joshua 22:11-12 states, "And the Israelites heard it said, 'Behold, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an altar opposite the land of Canaan, on the border of the Jordan, on the side belonging to the Israelites.' When the Israelites heard this, the whole congregation of Israel assembled at Shiloh to go to war against them."

The Diplomatic Mission

Before resorting to conflict, the Western Tribes sent a delegation led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, to confront the Eastern Tribes. This delegation included ten chiefs, one from each of the remaining tribes of Israel. Their mission was to understand the intentions behind the construction of the altar and to prevent any potential breach of faith.

The delegation expressed their concerns, reminding the Eastern Tribes of past transgressions, such as the sin of Peor and Achan's disobedience, which had brought calamity upon Israel (Joshua 22:16-20). They urged the Eastern Tribes to remain faithful to the LORD and offered them land on the western side of the Jordan if their current location was deemed unclean.

The Response of the Eastern Tribes

The Eastern Tribes responded with humility and clarity, explaining that the altar was not intended for sacrifices or offerings but as a witness between them and the Western Tribes. They emphasized their commitment to the LORD and their desire to prevent future generations from questioning their share in the LORD's inheritance.

Joshua 22:24-25 records their explanation: "But 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? 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."

Resolution and Reconciliation

Upon hearing the explanation, Phinehas and the delegation were satisfied and praised God for the peaceful resolution. They recognized that the altar was a symbol of unity and a witness to the shared faith and covenant among all the tribes of Israel. The potential for civil war was averted, and the tribes returned to their respective territories in peace.

Joshua 22:33 states, "The Israelites were pleased with the report, and they blessed God. They no longer spoke of going to war against the Reubenites and Gadites and destroying the land where they lived."

Significance

The concern of the Western Tribes and the subsequent resolution highlight the importance of communication, understanding, and unity within the covenant community. It serves as a reminder of the potential for misunderstanding and the need for careful discernment and dialogue to maintain peace and faithfulness to God's covenant.