Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of motive plays a significant role, particularly when actions are misinterpreted by others. A notable instance of misunderstood motive is found in the account of the construction of a memorial by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, as recorded in the Book of Joshua.Context and Background After the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, had taken possession of the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were granted land on the eastern side of the Jordan River. Before returning to their allotted territories, these tribes had fulfilled their commitment to assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan (Joshua 22:1-4). The Building of the Memorial Upon their return, these eastern tribes constructed a large altar by the Jordan River. This act was immediately met with suspicion and alarm by the other Israelite tribes, who perceived it as a potential act of rebellion against the LORD. The western tribes feared that this altar signified a departure from the central place of worship established at the Tabernacle in Shiloh, which could provoke divine wrath upon the entire nation (Joshua 22:10-12). Misunderstanding and Clarification The western tribes, led by Phinehas the priest and ten chiefs, confronted the eastern tribes to address the perceived transgression. They expressed their concern that the altar represented a breach of faith and a violation of the covenant with God, reminiscent of past transgressions such as the sin of Peor and Achan's disobedience (Joshua 22:13-20). In response, the eastern tribes clarified their intentions. They explained that the altar was not meant for sacrifices or offerings, but rather as a witness and a memorial. Their motive was to ensure that future generations would recognize their shared heritage and allegiance to the LORD, despite the geographical separation by the Jordan River. They feared that in time, their descendants might be excluded from the community of Israel and the worship of the LORD (Joshua 22:21-29). Resolution and Reconciliation Upon hearing the explanation, Phinehas and the leaders were relieved and satisfied. They acknowledged the sincerity of the eastern tribes' motive and praised God for preventing conflict among the Israelites. The altar was thus named "A Witness Between Us that the LORD is God," symbolizing unity and shared faith (Joshua 22:30-34). Theological Implications This episode underscores the importance of understanding and discerning motives in the community of faith. It highlights the potential for misunderstanding and conflict when actions are judged without seeking clarification. The narrative also emphasizes the value of dialogue and reconciliation in maintaining unity among God's people. The eastern tribes' desire to preserve their identity and connection to the LORD serves as a reminder of the significance of shared faith and covenantal relationships within the broader community of believers. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 22:9-34And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan, to go to the country of Gilead, to the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed, according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses. Nave's Topical Index Library Pagan Cemeteries. Introduction. Chapter i. --The Life and Writings of St. Hilary of ... Resources What does the Bible say about dyeing hair? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I stop being a people-pleaser? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that “as a man thinks, so is he” in Proverbs 23:7? | GotQuestions.org Motive: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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