Joshua 22:14

With him they sent ten chiefs--one family leader from each tribe of Israel, each the head of a family among the clans of Israel.

Study Bible

With him they sent ten chiefs—
This phrase refers to the delegation sent by the Israelites to address the concerns regarding the altar built by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The number ten is significant in biblical numerology, often symbolizing completeness or the entirety of a group. The sending of ten chiefs underscores the seriousness of the situation and the desire for a comprehensive representation of the Israelite community. This action reflects the communal decision-making process in ancient Israel, where leaders were chosen to represent the collective interests of the tribes.

one family leader from each tribe of Israel,
The selection of one leader from each tribe emphasizes the unity and equality among the tribes of Israel. Each tribe had its own distinct identity and leadership, yet they were all part of the larger covenant community. This structure of leadership is reminiscent of the organization seen in the wilderness journey, where tribal leaders played crucial roles in guiding and managing the people (Numbers 1:4-16). It also highlights the importance of family and tribal affiliations in ancient Israelite society, where leadership was often hereditary and based on lineage.

each the head of a family among the clans of Israel.
The term "head of a family" indicates a position of authority and respect within the clan structure. In ancient Israel, clans were sub-divisions of tribes, and family heads were responsible for the welfare and representation of their extended families. This hierarchical structure ensured that decisions were made with consideration for the needs and perspectives of all community members. The involvement of family heads in this delegation underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a resolution that would maintain the unity and purity of worship among the Israelites. This structure also foreshadows the New Testament concept of the church as a family of believers, with Christ as the head (Ephesians 5:23).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Phinehas
The son of Eleazar the priest, Phinehas is a key figure in this chapter, leading the delegation to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Known for his zeal for God's holiness, Phinehas plays a crucial role in maintaining unity among the Israelites.

2. Ten Chiefs
These are the leaders from each of the remaining tribes of Israel. Their involvement signifies the importance of the mission and the collective responsibility of the tribes to address potential issues of faithfulness to God.

3. Tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh
These tribes had settled on the east side of the Jordan River. Their construction of an altar led to concerns among the other tribes about potential idolatry or division.

4. Shiloh
The place where the Israelites gathered before sending the delegation. It was the religious center of Israel at the time, housing the Tabernacle.

5. Jordan River
A significant geographical and symbolic boundary in this account, representing both physical separation and potential spiritual division among the tribes.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Leaders like Phinehas and the ten chiefs demonstrate the necessity of godly leadership in addressing potential conflicts and maintaining unity within the community of faith.

Unity in the Body of Believers
The tribes' concern for each other's faithfulness to God highlights the importance of unity and accountability among believers today.

Addressing Misunderstandings with Grace
The approach of the delegation, seeking to understand before passing judgment, serves as a model for resolving conflicts and misunderstandings within the church.

The Role of Symbols in Faith
The altar built by the eastern tribes was a symbol of their connection to the rest of Israel. This reminds us of the importance of symbols in expressing and maintaining our faith.

Guarding Against Idolatry
The swift response to the potential for idolatry underscores the need for vigilance in guarding against anything that might lead us away from true worship of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of Phinehas in Joshua 22:14 reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own leadership roles today?

2. In what ways does the unity of the Israelite tribes in this passage parallel the unity called for in the New Testament church?

3. How can we apply the principles of conflict resolution demonstrated by the Israelite leaders in our own relationships and communities?

4. What are some modern-day "altars" or symbols that help us maintain our connection to God and the larger body of believers?

5. How can we remain vigilant against idolatry in our own lives, ensuring that our worship remains focused on God alone?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 25
Phinehas's previous actions in stopping a plague among the Israelites highlight his commitment to God's covenant and provide context for his leadership role in Joshua 22.

Deuteronomy 13
The instructions for dealing with idolatry among the Israelites underscore the seriousness of the situation and the need for the delegation's mission.

Ephesians 4
The call for unity in the body of Christ parallels the efforts of the Israelite leaders to maintain unity among the tribes.