Biblical Context:
The request of the tribes of Reuben and Gad is a significant event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Numbers, chapter 32. This event occurs during the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land, after their exodus from Egypt and during their wanderings in the wilderness. The tribes of Reuben and Gad, possessing large herds of livestock, saw the lands of Jazer and Gilead as suitable for their needs and approached Moses with a request to settle there instead of crossing the Jordan River into Canaan.

Scriptural Account:
In Numbers 32:1-5 , the narrative begins with the tribes of Reuben and Gad observing the land of Jazer and Gilead, which was ideal for their livestock. They approached Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the leaders of the congregation, saying, "If we have found favor in your sight, let this land be given to your servants as a possession. Do not make us cross the Jordan."

Moses' Response:
Moses initially responded with concern and rebuke, fearing that their request might discourage the rest of the Israelites from entering the Promised Land, as their ancestors had done at Kadesh Barnea. In Numbers 32:6-15, Moses reminded them of the consequences of the previous generation's lack of faith, which resulted in their wandering in the wilderness for forty years. He questioned whether the tribes of Reuben and Gad were repeating the same mistake by not joining their fellow Israelites in the conquest of Canaan.

The Agreement:
In response to Moses' concerns, the tribes of Reuben and Gad proposed a compromise. They promised to build fortified cities for their families and livestock in the land east of the Jordan but pledged to lead the Israelites in battle until the land of Canaan was secured. Numbers 32:16-19 details their commitment to not return to their homes until every Israelite had received their inheritance.

Moses accepted their proposal, provided they fulfilled their promise. In Numbers 32:20-24, he instructed them to arm themselves for battle and cross the Jordan with the other tribes. If they kept their word, they would be allowed to return and possess the land of Gilead. Moses warned them, "But if you do not do this, you will have sinned against the LORD, and be sure your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23).

Fulfillment and Settlement:
The tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with the half-tribe of Manasseh, honored their commitment. They participated in the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. After the land was subdued, they returned to their inheritance east of the Jordan, as recorded in Joshua 22. Their settlement in this region fulfilled their agreement with Moses and demonstrated their faithfulness to their word.

Theological Significance:
The request of Reuben and Gad highlights themes of faithfulness, responsibility, and the importance of unity among God's people. It underscores the necessity of fulfilling one's commitments and the potential consequences of failing to do so. The narrative also illustrates the balance between individual desires and communal obligations within the covenant community of Israel.