JOSHUA 22

THE EASTERN TRIBES RETURN HOME BUT REMAIN UNITED WITH THE ISRAELITES

The tribes who wanted to live East of the Jordan River (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh) return to their land after all of Canaan had been divided. Before they leave, Joshua reminds them to love God with all their heart and soul. Joshua understands the importance and priority of this command, which is later included in all four gospel accounts (Matthew 22:37, Mark 12:33 Luke 12:30, Luke 10:27).

Once they arrive to their divided land, they built an altar as a reminder of unity between their tribes and the other tribes. Although they are divided by the river, the Israelites are one people group and serve the same God.

Upon seeing the altar, the other Israelites are alarmed, thinking it was an idol. The tribes East of the Jordan explain their purpose for the altar and reassure them it was not to be worshiped.