Joshua 22:11

Then the Israelites received the report: "Behold, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an altar on the border of the land of Canaan, at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side."

Study Bible

Then the Israelites received the report:
This phrase indicates the beginning of a significant event that required the attention of the entire Israelite community. The Israelites, having settled in the Promised Land, were vigilant about maintaining the purity of their worship and adherence to God's commands. Reports and communication were crucial in maintaining unity among the tribes, especially given the geographical separation of the Transjordan tribes.

“Behold, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes had chosen to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River, as recorded in Numbers 32. Their decision was based on the suitability of the land for their livestock. This separation, however, posed potential challenges for unity and religious fidelity, as they were physically distant from the central place of worship at Shiloh.

have built an altar
The construction of an altar was a significant act, as altars were central to worship and sacrifice in Israelite religion. According to Deuteronomy 12:13-14, sacrifices were to be made only at the place God chose, which was initially the Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem. The building of another altar could be seen as a direct challenge to this command, raising concerns of idolatry or schism.

on the border of the land of Canaan,
This location is significant as it marks the boundary between the land of Canaan, where the majority of the Israelites settled, and the Transjordan area. The border was not just a physical demarcation but also a symbolic one, representing the division between the tribes and the potential for differing religious practices.

at Geliloth near the Jordan
Geliloth is a location near the Jordan River, which served as a natural boundary. The Jordan River was a significant geographical feature in Israel's history, symbolizing both a barrier and a point of transition, as seen in the crossing led by Joshua in Joshua 3-4. The proximity to the Jordan suggests the altar was strategically placed to be visible and accessible to both sides.

on the Israelite side.”
This detail emphasizes that the altar was built within the territory considered part of the Promised Land, which heightened the concern among the other tribes. It suggested an assertion of religious independence or a potential breach of covenant, which could lead to divine judgment, as seen in previous instances of disobedience (e.g., the sin of Achan in Joshua 7). The unity and purity of worship were paramount, and any deviation was taken seriously by the Israelite community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reubenites, Gadites, and the Half-Tribe of Manasseh
These are the tribes that settled on the east side of the Jordan River. They built an altar, which led to a misunderstanding with the other tribes of Israel.

2. The Israelites
The collective tribes of Israel who were concerned about the altar built by the eastern tribes, fearing it represented rebellion against God.

3. The Altar
Constructed by the eastern tribes, it was initially perceived as a potential threat to the unity and religious purity of Israel.

4. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary that separated the eastern tribes from the rest of Israel, symbolizing potential division.

5. The Land of Canaan
The Promised Land where the majority of the Israelites settled, representing God's promise and blessing.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The tribes of Israel, though geographically separated, were called to maintain unity. In the church today, believers may have different roles or locations but are united in Christ.

Communication and Understanding
The initial reaction to the altar was based on assumption. This teaches the importance of seeking understanding and clear communication before jumping to conclusions.

Guarding Against Division
Just as the Israelites were concerned about potential division, Christians must be vigilant against anything that threatens the unity of the church.

Symbolism and Intent
The altar was a symbol of witness, not rebellion. This highlights the importance of understanding the intent behind actions and symbols in our faith communities.

Faithfulness to God's Commands
The Israelites' concern was rooted in a desire to remain faithful to God's commands. This underscores the importance of obedience and vigilance in our spiritual walk.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the reaction of the Israelites to the altar about the importance of unity in the body of Christ?

2. How does the account of the altar built by the eastern tribes challenge us to seek understanding before making judgments?

3. In what ways can geographical or cultural differences within the church today lead to misunderstandings, and how can we address them?

4. How does the concept of a "witness" altar relate to our call to be witnesses for Christ in our communities?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a misunderstanding in your faith community. How did you resolve it, and what biblical principles guided you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
Discusses the centralization of worship and the prohibition against unauthorized altars, which is relevant to the concern of the Israelites in Joshua 22.

Numbers 32
Provides background on the agreement that allowed the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, highlighting their commitment to the unity of Israel.

Ephesians 4
Speaks to the unity of the body of Christ, which can be paralleled to the unity sought among the tribes of Israel.