Topical Bible: Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Two and One-Half Tribes

◄ Reproof: Faithfulness in Israelites, of the Two and One-Half Tribes ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The concept of reproof in the context of the Israelites, particularly concerning the two and one-half tribes, is a significant theme in the Old Testament. Reproof, in biblical terms, often involves correction or admonishment intended to guide individuals or groups back to faithfulness and obedience to God's commands. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh provide a notable example of this dynamic.

Background of the Two and One-Half Tribes

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were allotted land on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This allocation is detailed in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Joshua. Before entering the Promised Land, these tribes requested to settle in the fertile lands of Gilead and Bashan, which were suitable for their large herds and flocks. Moses granted their request on the condition that they assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan (Numbers 32:1-33).

Faithfulness and Reproof

The faithfulness of these tribes is tested and affirmed in the Book of Joshua. After the conquest of Canaan, Joshua commends the two and one-half tribes for their obedience and faithfulness in fulfilling their promise to help their fellow Israelites. Joshua 22:1-4 states:

"Then Joshua summoned the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh and said to them, 'You have done all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, and you have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you. You have not deserted your brothers even to this day, but have carried out the mission the LORD your God gave you.'"

Despite their initial faithfulness, a potential misunderstanding arises when these tribes build an altar by the Jordan River upon returning to their land. The rest of the Israelites perceive this as a rebellion against God, fearing it represents a separate place of worship contrary to the central sanctuary established by God. This leads to a confrontation, as described in Joshua 22:10-12 :

"When they came to Geliloth near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan. And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, the whole congregation of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them."

Resolution and Affirmation of Faithfulness

The situation is resolved through dialogue and reproof, demonstrating the importance of communication and understanding in maintaining faithfulness. The two and one-half tribes explain that the altar is not for sacrifices but as a witness to future generations that they share in the worship of the LORD, ensuring unity among all Israelites. Joshua 22:24-27 records their explanation:

"But in fact we have done this for fear that in the future your descendants might say to ours, 'What have you to do with the LORD, the God of Israel? For the LORD has made the Jordan a border between us and you, you Reubenites and Gadites. You have no share in the LORD!' So your descendants might cause ours to stop fearing the LORD. That is why we said, 'Let us take action and build an altar for ourselves, but not for burnt offerings or sacrifices. Rather, it will be a witness between us and you and the generations to come, so that we may perform the service of the LORD in His presence with our burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings.'"

This explanation satisfies the rest of the Israelites, and the potential conflict is averted. The tribes' faithfulness is reaffirmed, and the altar is named "A Witness Between Us that the LORD is God" (Joshua 22:34).

Significance

The narrative of the two and one-half tribes illustrates the role of reproof in maintaining covenant faithfulness among the Israelites. It underscores the importance of addressing misunderstandings and ensuring that actions align with God's commands. The resolution of the conflict through dialogue and mutual understanding serves as a model for resolving disputes within the community of faith, emphasizing the need for unity and adherence to divine instructions.

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Joshua 22:15-20
And they came to the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the half tribe of Manasseh, to the land of Gilead, and they spoke with them, saying,
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