The event known as "Israel Reacts to the Altar" is a significant episode recorded in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 22. This narrative unfolds after the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, have largely completed the conquest of Canaan and are settling into their allotted territories. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, having fulfilled their commitment to assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan River, are permitted to return to their own inheritance east of the Jordan.

Upon their return, these tribes construct a large altar by the Jordan River, which immediately raises concerns among the other Israelite tribes. The altar's construction is perceived as a potential act of rebellion against the LORD, as it could signify the establishment of a separate place of worship, contrary to the centralization of worship at the Tabernacle, as commanded by God.

The rest of Israel, fearing that this altar might lead to idolatry or schism, prepares to go to war against the eastern tribes. They send a delegation led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, to confront the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The delegation's mission is to ascertain the purpose of the altar and to prevent any breach of faith that could invoke divine wrath upon the entire nation.

In their defense, the eastern tribes explain that the altar is not intended for sacrifices or offerings, but as a witness between them and the other Israelites. They assert that it serves as a reminder that they too are part of the covenant community, despite being separated by the Jordan River. Their intention is to ensure that future generations will recognize their shared heritage and worship of the LORD, preventing any claims that they have no share in the LORD.

Upon hearing this explanation, Phinehas and the delegation are relieved and satisfied. They acknowledge the sincerity of the eastern tribes and recognize that the altar is not a sign of rebellion but a symbol of unity and faithfulness to God. The potential conflict is averted, and the Israelites praise God for preserving the unity of the nation.

This episode underscores the importance of communication and understanding within the covenant community. It highlights the Israelites' commitment to maintaining the purity of worship and the unity of the nation under God's law. The narrative also reflects the broader biblical theme of the dangers of division and the necessity of addressing misunderstandings with grace and truth.

The Berean Standard Bible captures this event in Joshua 22:10-34, with key verses illustrating the resolution of the conflict:

"And when they came to the region of the Jordan that is in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan" (Joshua 22:10).

"Then Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest said to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the Manassites, 'Today we know that the LORD is among us, because you have not committed this treachery against Him. As a result, you have delivered the Israelites from the hand of the LORD'" (Joshua 22:31).

This account serves as a reminder of the importance of fidelity to God's commands and the need for unity among His people.