Joshua 22:34

So the Reubenites and Gadites named the altar Witness, for they said, "It is a witness between us that the LORD is God."

Study Bible

So the Reubenites and Gadites named the altar Witness
The Reubenites and Gadites, along with the half-tribe of Manasseh, had settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This altar, named "Witness," was built as a symbol of unity and shared faith with the tribes on the western side. The naming of the altar reflects a common biblical practice where names are given to places or objects to signify their purpose or commemorate an event (e.g., Genesis 28:19, where Jacob names Bethel). The altar was not for sacrifices but served as a reminder of their shared worship of Yahweh, despite geographical separation.

for they said, “It is a witness between us
The altar served as a testimony to the unity of the tribes of Israel, despite the physical barrier of the Jordan River. This phrase emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual unity and accountability among God's people. The concept of a "witness" is significant in biblical law and covenant-making, where witnesses serve to confirm agreements and ensure faithfulness (Deuteronomy 19:15). The altar was a tangible reminder of their commitment to the covenant with God and each other.

that the LORD is God.”
This declaration affirms the central tenet of Israel's faith: the acknowledgment of Yahweh as the one true God. It echoes the Shema, a foundational statement of faith in Deuteronomy 6:4, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." The altar as a witness underscores the tribes' dedication to worshiping Yahweh alone, rejecting idolatry, and maintaining their identity as His chosen people. This statement also prefigures the New Testament emphasis on unity in Christ, where believers are called to be one in faith and purpose (John 17:21).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reubenites and Gadites
These are two of the tribes of Israel who settled on the east side of the Jordan River. They played a significant role in the events of Joshua 22, where they built an altar as a witness to their shared faith with the other tribes of Israel.

2. Altar of Witness
This altar was constructed by the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. It served as a symbol of unity and a testimony to their allegiance to the LORD, despite their geographical separation from the other tribes.

3. Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary in the account, it separated the eastern tribes from the rest of Israel. The river symbolizes both division and connection in the context of the altar's purpose.

4. Phinehas
The son of Eleazar the priest, Phinehas was sent to investigate the altar's construction. His involvement underscores the importance of maintaining religious purity and unity among the tribes.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
Central to the account, the LORD is the God whom the altar is meant to honor and serve as a witness to His covenant with all the tribes of Israel.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The altar serves as a reminder that physical separation does not equate to spiritual division. Believers today can maintain unity in Christ despite differences in geography or culture.

Witness to Faith
Just as the altar was a witness to the faith of the eastern tribes, Christians are called to be living witnesses to the world, demonstrating their faith through actions and words.

Guarding Against Misunderstanding
The initial reaction to the altar's construction was one of suspicion. This teaches the importance of seeking understanding and clarity in community matters before jumping to conclusions.

Symbolic Reminders
Physical symbols, like the altar, can serve as powerful reminders of spiritual truths and commitments. Believers can use symbols in their own lives to remember God's promises and their commitments to Him.

The Role of Leadership
Phinehas' involvement highlights the importance of godly leadership in resolving conflicts and maintaining unity within the community of faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the altar by the Reubenites and Gadites reflect their understanding of community and faith? How can we apply this understanding in our church communities today?

2. In what ways can physical symbols or reminders help strengthen our faith and commitment to God? Can you think of any personal examples?

3. How does the account of the altar in Joshua 22 encourage us to handle misunderstandings or conflicts within our faith communities?

4. What role does leadership play in maintaining unity and purity in the church, as seen in the actions of Phinehas? How can we support our leaders in this task?

5. How can the concept of being a "witness" to our faith, as demonstrated by the altar, be applied in our daily lives and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
This chapter discusses the centralization of worship and the prohibition against unauthorized altars, providing context for the concern over the altar built by the eastern tribes.

Hebrews 10
This New Testament passage speaks to the idea of a witness and testimony, paralleling the altar's role as a witness to the faith and unity of God's people.

Ephesians 2
Discusses the breaking down of dividing walls, which can be related to the altar's purpose of bridging the physical and spiritual divide between the tribes.