Crossing the Jordan in Peace: Understanding Unity and Avoiding Division in Joshua 22

Executive Summary

Joshua 22 narrates the story of the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh returning to their inherited lands east of the Jordan River after faithfully assisting their brethren in conquering Canaan. The chapter focuses on their construction of a large altar near the Jordan, which causes great concern and suspicion among the western tribes who fear idolatry and divine judgment. A delegation, including Phinehas the priest, confronts the eastern tribes, but the altar is revealed not as a sacrificial altar for offerings, but as a witness to the shared faith and covenant between the eastern and western tribes, ensuring future generations recognize their common heritage and worship the one true God. This chapter offers profound insights into the importance of unity, clear communication, and avoiding hasty judgment within the body of Christ, reminding us that outward appearances can be deceiving, and true discernment requires seeking understanding and maintaining fellowship. The **Crossing the Jordan in Peace**, therefore, becomes a powerful symbol of restored relationships and clarified intentions.

The book of Joshua, a narrative steeped in military conquest and divine promises, takes a turn towards internal affairs in chapter 22. After years of battle and the fulfillment of God’s promise to give Israel their land, the focus shifts to maintaining unity and preventing division. The story of the eastern tribes building an altar and the subsequent misunderstanding highlights the delicate balance between zealous faith and potential schism. Let’s delve into this crucial passage, examining its historical context, spiritual significance, and its enduring relevance for us today, as we seek to live as unified members of Christ’s body.

Commentary: Joshua 22 Verse by Verse

Joshua 22:1-4: The Eastern Tribes Dismissed

Joshua 22:1 (KJV): Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, Joshua 22:2 (KJV): And said unto them, Ye have kept all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you: Joshua 22:3 (KJV): Ye have not left your brethren these many days unto this day, but have kept the charge of the commandment of the LORD your God. Joshua 22:4 (KJV): And now the LORD your God hath given rest unto your brethren, as he promised them: therefore now return ye, and get you unto your tents, and unto the land of your possession, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the other side Jordan.

Joshua, recognizing their faithfulness, officially dismisses the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, releasing them from their military obligations. He acknowledges their unwavering commitment to assisting their brethren in conquering the land. This act demonstrates Joshua’s wisdom and leadership in allowing these tribes to return to their families and their own inheritance east of the Jordan. Their obedience to both Moses’ commands and Joshua’s leadership underscores their commitment to God and the covenant. This shows us that true leadership recognizes and affirms the contributions of others.

Spiritual Application: We should strive to be faithful in fulfilling our commitments and obligations. When the time comes to move on, we should do so gracefully, recognizing the completion of God’s purpose in that season of our lives. Moreover, leadership demands acknowledgment and affirmation of the contributions of those who serve alongside us. Consider using our services to build a stronger online presence at dohost.us, mirroring Joshua’s commitment to building a lasting legacy.

Joshua 22:5-6: Charge and Blessing

Joshua 22:5 (KJV): But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul. Joshua 22:6 (KJV): So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents.

Joshua gives them a final charge: to diligently obey God’s commandments, to love Him, to walk in His ways, and to serve Him wholeheartedly. This is the essence of the covenant relationship. He blesses them, signifying God’s favor and protection as they embark on their journey home. Blessing is an important element in Scripture. It is through blessing that prosperity and goodness are invoked upon those blessed.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius emphasizes the importance of obedience in his writings, stating, “Ἡ γὰρ ὑπακοὴ κρεῖττον θυσίας” (Hē gar hypakoē kreitton thysias), “For obedience is better than sacrifice” (Athanasius, *Ad Constantium Imperatorem*, 15). This reminds us that outward actions are meaningless without a heart devoted to God and a life lived in accordance with His will.

Spiritual Application: We are reminded of the core of our faith: to love God and obey His commandments. This is not mere adherence to rules but a deep, heartfelt devotion that permeates every aspect of our lives. We should continually examine our hearts to ensure that our actions reflect our love for God. Just as Joshua blessed the tribes, we must seek God’s blessing and guidance in all our endeavors.

Joshua 22:7-9: Wealth and Return

Joshua 22:7 (KJV): Now to the one half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given possession in Bashan: but unto the other half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them, Joshua 22:8 (KJV): And he spake unto them, saying, Return with much riches unto your tents, and with very much cattle, with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment: divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren. Joshua 22:9 (KJV): And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan, to go unto the country of Gilead, to the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed, according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

Joshua acknowledges that one half of the tribe of Manasseh already received their inheritance from Moses in Bashan, while the other half received theirs west of the Jordan. He instructs them to return with the spoils of war, sharing them with their brethren. This emphasizes the importance of equitable distribution and generosity. These riches were not just for their personal gain but to be shared for the benefit of all.

Historical Context: Gilead, east of the Jordan, was known for its rich pastures, making it suitable for livestock. This explains why the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who had a large number of cattle, chose to settle there (Numbers 32:1). Understanding the geographical and environmental context sheds light on the tribes’ motivations and the potential for future misunderstandings.

Spiritual Application: We should be mindful of sharing our blessings with others. Wealth and possessions are not meant to be hoarded but to be used to bless those in need. Generosity reflects the heart of God, who abundantly blesses us. This generosity also mirrors the spiritual gifts that we receive and are called to share within the body of Christ, strengthening and edifying one another.

Joshua 22:10-12: The Altar by the Jordan and Growing Suspicion

Joshua 22:10 (KJV): And when they came unto the borders of Jordan, that are in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh built there an altar by Jordan, a great altar to see to. Joshua 22:11 (KJV): And the children of Israel heard say, Behold, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh have built an altar over against the land of Canaan, in the borders of Jordan, at the passage of the children of Israel. Joshua 22:12 (KJV): And when the children of Israel heard of it, the whole congregation of the children of Israel gathered themselves together at Shiloh, to go up to war against them.

The Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh, upon reaching the borders of the Jordan, build a “great altar to see to.” This altar immediately raises suspicion among the other tribes, who interpret it as an act of rebellion against God and a potential return to idolatry. News of the altar spreads quickly, and the entire congregation gathers at Shiloh, ready to wage war against their brethren. The phrase “a great altar to see to” indicates its visibility and prominence, further fueling the suspicions.

Doctrinal Reflection: The Israelites’ reaction highlights the seriousness with which they regarded the prohibition against unauthorized altars and sacrifices. The Law of Moses prescribed a single altar at the Tabernacle (and later the Temple) for sacrifices to maintain the unity of worship and prevent idolatry. Any deviation from this was considered a grave offense against God.

Spiritual Application: This passage underscores the danger of hasty judgments based on incomplete information. The tribes of Israel were quick to assume the worst about their brethren without seeking clarification. We must be careful not to judge others based on appearances or rumors. Instead, we should seek to understand their intentions and motivations before drawing conclusions. This requires humility, patience, and a willingness to listen to different perspectives. The story also speaks to the importance of avoiding actions that could easily be misconstrued by others, even if our intentions are pure.

Joshua 22:13-20: The Delegation to Gilead

Joshua 22:13 (KJV): And the children of Israel sent unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the half tribe of Manasseh, unto the land of Gilead, Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and with him ten princes, of each chief house a prince throughout all the tribes of Israel; Joshua 22:14 (KJV): And they came unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the half tribe of Manasseh, unto the land of Gilead, and they spake with them, saying, Joshua 22:15 (KJV): Thus saith the whole congregation of the LORD, What trespass is this that ye have committed against the God of Israel, to turn away this day from following the LORD, in that ye have builded you an altar, that ye might rebel this day against the LORD? Joshua 22:16 (KJV): Is the iniquity of Peor too little for us, from which we are not cleansed until this day, although there was a plague in the congregation of the LORD, Joshua 22:17 (KJV): That ye must turn away this day from following the LORD? and it will be, seeing ye rebel this day against the LORD, that to morrow he will be wroth with the whole congregation of Israel. Joshua 22:18 (KJV): But if the land of your possession be unclean, then pass ye over unto the land of the possession of the LORD, wherein the LORD’s tabernacle dwelleth, and take possession among us: but rebel not against the LORD, nor rebel against us, in building you an altar beside the altar of the LORD our God. Joshua 22:19 (KJV): Did not Achan the son of Zerah commit a trespass in the accursed thing, and wrath fell on all the congregation of Israel? and that man perished not alone in his iniquity. Joshua 22:20 (KJV): And 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.

The Israelites send a delegation led by Phinehas the priest and ten princes, representing each tribe, to confront the eastern tribes in Gilead. They accuse them of rebellion against God, citing the incident at Peor (Numbers 25) and the sin of Achan (Joshua 7) as examples of how individual sin can bring judgment upon the entire nation. They express their concern that the new altar will lead to idolatry and divine wrath. The delegation’s words are strong and accusatory, reflecting the gravity of their concern.

Patristic Insight: St. Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Pentateuch, emphasizes the communal nature of sin and its consequences. He writes about the importance of accountability and the need to address sin promptly to prevent it from spreading and affecting the entire community. Just as Achan’s sin brought judgment upon all Israel, the potential idolatry of the eastern tribes threatened the entire nation’s relationship with God.

Spiritual Application: This passage teaches us about the importance of addressing potential sin and error within the community of faith. While we should not be quick to judge, we also cannot ignore potential dangers to the spiritual health of the church. The delegation’s approach, while initially harsh, reflects a genuine concern for the well-being of the entire nation. We should strive to address issues with love, humility, and a desire for reconciliation, but also with a firm commitment to truth and righteousness. When there is doubt, seek God’s counsel to discern the truth. If the **Crossing the Jordan in Peace** will be achieved, then clear communication is paramount. It is crucial to consider the implications of our actions on others. If our actions, even if well-intentioned, cause confusion or lead others astray, we have a responsibility to clarify our motives and ensure that our actions are not misinterpreted.

Joshua 22:21-29: The Eastern Tribes’ Explanation

Joshua 22:21 (KJV): 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, Joshua 22:22 (KJV): The LORD God of gods, the LORD God of gods, he knoweth, and Israel he shall know; if it be in rebellion, or if in transgression against the LORD, (save us not this day,) Joshua 22:23 (KJV): That we have built us an altar to turn from following the LORD, or if to offer thereon burnt offering or meat offering, or if to offer peace offerings thereon, let the LORD himself require it; Joshua 22:24 (KJV): And if we have not rather done it for fear of this thing, saying, In time to come your children might speak unto our children, saying, What have ye to do with the LORD God of Israel? Joshua 22:25 (KJV): For the LORD hath made Jordan a border between us and you, ye children of Reuben and children of Gad; ye have no part in the LORD: so shall your children make our children cease from fearing the LORD. Joshua 22:26 (KJV): Therefore we said, Let us build an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice: Joshua 22:27 (KJV): But that it may be a witness between us, and you, and our generations after us, that we might do the service of the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your children may not say to our children in time to come, Ye have no part in the LORD. Joshua 22:28 (KJV): Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should so say to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say again, Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it is a witness between us and you. Joshua 22:29 (KJV): God forbid that we should rebel against the LORD, and turn this day from following the LORD, to build an altar for burnt offerings, for meat offerings, or for sacrifices, beside the altar of the LORD our God that is before his tabernacle.

The eastern tribes respond to the accusations with a solemn oath, invoking God as their witness. They vehemently deny any intention of rebelling against the Lord or establishing a rival altar for sacrifices. Instead, they explain that they built the altar as a *witness* – a visible reminder to future generations that they are part of the same covenant community as the tribes west of the Jordan. They feared that, in the future, their descendants might be excluded from the worship of the Lord due to their geographical separation. The altar was intended to serve as a tangible symbol of their shared faith and heritage.

Hebrew Significance: The word “witness” (עֵד, ‘ed) in Hebrew carries a strong connotation of testimony and legal validation. The altar was not simply a monument, but a legally binding declaration of their allegiance to the Lord and their commitment to the covenant. They were thinking long term about the religious security of their generations.

Spiritual Application: This passage teaches us the importance of seeking clarification and understanding before making judgments. The eastern tribes were unjustly accused of rebellion, but their clear and sincere explanation averted a potential civil war. We should be willing to listen to different perspectives and give others the benefit of the doubt. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of maintaining visible signs and reminders of our faith. Just as the altar served as a witness to the covenant, we should seek to create tangible expressions of our faith that will remind us and future generations of our commitment to God. This could include family traditions, acts of service, or supporting ministries that promote the Gospel. These tribes had the intention of strengthening the connection between the tribes.

Joshua 22:30-34: Acceptance and Peace

Joshua 22:30 (KJV): And when Phinehas the priest, and the princes of the congregation and heads of the thousands of Israel which were with him, heard the words that the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the children of Manasseh spake, it pleased them. Joshua 22:31 (KJV): And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben and to the children of Gad and to the children of Manasseh, This day we perceive that the LORD is among us, because ye have not committed this trespass against the LORD: now ye have delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of the LORD. Joshua 22:32 (KJV): And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and the princes, returned from the children of Reuben, and from the children of Gad, out of the land of Gilead, unto the land of Canaan, to the children of Israel, and brought them word again. Joshua 22:33 (KJV): And the thing pleased the children of Israel; and the children of Israel blessed God, and did not intend to go up against them in battle, to destroy the land wherein the children of Reuben and Gad dwelt. Joshua 22:34 (KJV): And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad called the altar Ed: for it shall be a witness between us that the LORD is God.

Phinehas and the delegation are satisfied with the explanation given by the eastern tribes. They realize that their initial suspicions were unfounded and that the altar was built with good intentions. Phinehas acknowledges that God is among them because they have not rebelled against Him. The delegation returns to the western tribes and reports what they heard, and the Israelites rejoice and abandon their plans for war. The eastern tribes name the altar “Ed” (עֵד), meaning “witness,” solidifying its purpose as a testament to their shared faith in the Lord. Harmony is restored, and the threat of division is averted.

Theological Significance: This passage underscores the importance of discernment and humility. Phinehas and the princes were willing to change their minds and admit their initial error. This demonstrates a spirit of humility and a willingness to be corrected, which are essential qualities for spiritual leaders. Sometimes the most important action is not to do, but to be still and listen.

Spiritual Application: This passage emphasizes the power of clear communication and reconciliation. When misunderstandings arise, we should strive to communicate openly and honestly, seeking to understand the other person’s perspective. We should also be willing to forgive and be reconciled when we have wronged someone or been wronged ourselves. The **Crossing the Jordan in Peace** was achieved by humility and trust in God. Just as the Israelites blessed God for averting war, we should give thanks to God for His grace and mercy in restoring relationships and maintaining unity within the body of Christ.

Key Reflections and Teachings

The story of the eastern tribes and the altar offers several key reflections and teachings applicable to our lives:

• 💡The Danger of Hasty Judgment: We must avoid making assumptions and judgments based on incomplete information or appearances. Seek to understand the motives and intentions of others before drawing conclusions.
• 📖The Importance of Clear Communication: Open and honest communication is essential for resolving misunderstandings and maintaining unity. Be willing to listen to different perspectives and express your own thoughts and feelings clearly.
• 🤝The Value of Unity and Fellowship: The unity of the body of Christ is precious and should be guarded. Avoid actions that could cause division or offense. Strive to maintain fellowship with other believers, even when disagreements arise.
• 🕊️The Power of Reconciliation: When misunderstandings or conflicts occur, seek reconciliation and forgiveness. Be willing to admit your own faults and extend grace to others.
• 📜The Significance of Witnessing: Find ways to create tangible expressions of your faith that will remind you and future generations of your commitment to God. These witnesses can serve as a testament to your faith and inspire others to follow Christ.
• ✨The Glory of God: All that we do should be for the Glory of God. If there is no glory to God or purpose, then the intent of the action should be questioned.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions related to Joshua 22:

• Q: Why were the western tribes so quick to assume the worst about the eastern tribes?

  A: The western tribes were deeply concerned about maintaining the purity of worship and preventing idolatry. They had witnessed the consequences of disobedience in the past (e.g., Peor, Achan) and were zealous to protect the covenant. Their fear of divine judgment led them to react quickly and decisively.

• Q: What was the significance of the eastern tribes naming the altar “Ed”?

  A: Naming the altar “Ed” (witness) solidified its purpose as a testament to their shared faith in the Lord. It served as a permanent reminder to future generations that they were part of the same covenant community as the tribes west of the Jordan. This was the best method they had to secure and ensure their place as one of God’s people.

• Q: What lessons can we learn from this story about handling disagreements within the church?

  A: We can learn the importance of clear communication, seeking understanding, and avoiding hasty judgments. When disagreements arise, we should strive to listen to different perspectives, express our own concerns with love and respect, and seek reconciliation. This example shows us that speaking face to face can remedy great conflicts.

Conclusion

Joshua 22 provides a powerful narrative about the importance of unity, clear communication, and avoiding hasty judgment within the community of faith. The story of the eastern tribes building an altar and the subsequent misunderstanding highlights the delicate balance between zealous faith and potential schism. The tribes east of the Jordan River, falsely accused, defended their actions, securing their place as part of the people of Israel. The **Crossing the Jordan in Peace** would not have happened if Israel rushed to war. As we navigate the complexities of life and faith, let us remember the lessons of this chapter: to seek understanding before making judgments, to communicate openly and honestly, and to strive for unity within the body of Christ. May we always be willing to listen to different perspectives, to extend grace to one another, and to prioritize the preservation of fellowship above all else. Let us strive to be a people marked by love, humility, and a commitment to truth, so that the world may know that we are disciples of Jesus Christ.

Tags

Joshua 22, Eastern Tribes, Altar, Unity, Division, Misunderstanding, Reconciliation, Covenant, Phinehas, Gilead

Meta Description

Explore Joshua 22’s profound lessons on unity, communication, and avoiding hasty judgment within the body of Christ. Discover how to foster fellowship and truth.