Chapter 22 of the Book of Joshua in the King James Version (KJV) tells the story of a conflict between the tribes of Israel. After the conquest of Canaan, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh were given land on the eastern side of the Jordan River. They had fulfilled their commitment to assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the Promised Land. As a result, they were allowed to return to their allotted territories.
The chapter begins with these tribes building a large altar near the Jordan River, which alarmed the other tribes in Israel. They misunderstood the purpose of the altar, assuming it was intended for offering sacrifices separate from the central tabernacle. This action seemed to violate God’s commandment to worship in a unified manner. So, they gathered together to prepare for war against the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh.
Before engaging in battle, however, they sent a delegation led by Phinehas, the priest, to seek an explanation. The tribes across the Jordan clarified that the altar was not meant for offerings but rather as a symbolic reminder of their unity with the rest of Israel. Satisfied with this explanation, the delegation returned, and peace was restored among the tribes.
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