“Then the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh answered, and said unto the heads of the thousands of Israel,”
Context: The book of Joshua records the events that took place after the death of Moses, as the Israelites prepared to enter and conquer the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. The verse in question is part of a dialogue between the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh with the leaders of the other tribes of Israel.
Historical Background: Before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Moses granted the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of the tribe of Manasseh the land on the eastern side of the Jordan River (Numbers 32). These tribes were primarily herders and had a large number of livestock. After the conquest of the Promised Land by the remaining tribes, Joshua dismissed these tribes to their allotted land on the condition that they assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the land west of the Jordan (Joshua 1:12-18).
The Building of an Altar: Joshua 22:10-20 provides the background to the conversation in verse 21. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh had completed their obligation to help their brothers conquer the land. Afterward, they returned to their allotted land on the eastern side of the Jordan. However, before crossing the Jordan River, they built a massive altar near the river, which caught the attention of the other tribes of Israel.
Misunderstanding and Potential Conflict: Upon hearing about the altar, the Israelites on the western side of the Jordan River assumed that the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh were rebelling against God. They feared that this altar was intended for offering sacrifices instead of the one central altar that God had commanded to be established at the tabernacle (Deuteronomy 12:5-14).
Clarification and Reconciliation: Verse 21 captures the response of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh to the leaders of the other tribes. They clarify their intention behind building the altar, explaining that it was not meant to be used for offering burnt offerings or sacrifices but rather as a witness, reminding future generations of their unity with the rest of Israel.
Resolving the Conflict: The issue was brought before Joshua and the leaders of Israel, who decided to send a delegation to investigate the matter (Joshua 22:11-20). After learning the true purpose of the altar, the delegation returned to the western side of the Jordan River and reported to the people, bringing an end to the misunderstanding and averting potential conflict (Joshua 22:30-34).
Lessons from Joshua 22:21:
- Communication and Clarification: The incident highlights the importance of effective communication and seeking clarification when misunderstandings arise among believers. Had the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh not explained their intention, the situation could have escalated into a conflict. It is essential to address misunderstandings promptly and seek resolutions through open dialogue.
- Unity in Diversity: The incident showcases the unity of the Israelite tribes despite their geographical separation. Although the tribes on the eastern side of the Jordan River had different circumstances and needs, they remained committed to their covenant with God and the community of Israel.
- Faithfulness to God’s Commands: The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh understood the importance of following God’s commands regarding worship. They made it clear that the altar was not meant to replace the central tabernacle altar but served as a memorial to their unity with the rest of Israel.
Overall, Joshua 22:21 reminds us of the significance of open communication, unity, and faithfulness to God’s commands within the community of believers.
