The Reubenite Settlement refers to the territory allocated to the tribe of Reuben, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, as described in the Old Testament. The Reubenites were descendants of Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah. Their settlement was located east of the Jordan River, in the region known as Transjordan, which was part of the land conquered by the Israelites before crossing into Canaan.

Biblical Allocation and Geography

The allocation of land to the Reubenites is detailed in the Book of Numbers and the Book of Joshua. In Numbers 32, the Reubenites, along with the Gadites, approached Moses with a request to settle in the fertile lands of Jazer and Gilead, which were suitable for their large herds and flocks. Moses granted their request on the condition that they assist the other tribes in the conquest of Canaan. Numbers 32:33 states, "So Moses gave to the Gadites, the Reubenites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh son of Joseph the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan—the land, together with its cities and the territory surrounding them."

The territory of the Reubenites included the land from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Gorge, the city in the middle of the gorge, and the entire plateau past Medeba. Joshua 13:15-23 provides a detailed description of the Reubenite territory, listing cities such as Heshbon, Dibon, Bamoth-baal, and Beth-baal-meon.

Historical and Cultural Context

The Reubenite Settlement was strategically located along important trade routes and was characterized by its pastoral economy. The region's geography, with its rolling hills and fertile plains, made it ideal for grazing livestock. The Reubenites, like their fellow Transjordanian tribes, played a crucial role in the defense and stability of Israel's eastern frontier.

Despite their initial zeal in securing their inheritance, the Reubenites, along with the other tribes in Transjordan, faced challenges in maintaining their distinct identity and religious fidelity. The distance from the central sanctuary in Shiloh and later Jerusalem posed a risk of assimilation with neighboring pagan cultures. This concern is reflected in the incident recorded in Joshua 22, where the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar by the Jordan River. This act was initially misunderstood by the other tribes as a sign of rebellion against the LORD, but it was later clarified as a witness to their shared faith and commitment to the God of Israel.

Spiritual Significance

The Reubenite Settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and unity among God's people. The Reubenites' willingness to assist their brethren in the conquest of Canaan, despite having already received their inheritance, exemplifies the principle of collective responsibility and mutual support within the covenant community. Their account also highlights the potential dangers of spiritual complacency and the need for vigilance in maintaining one's faith amidst external influences.

Legacy

The legacy of the Reubenites is intertwined with the broader narrative of Israel's history. Although the tribe of Reuben eventually faded from prominence, their initial settlement and contributions to the early formation of the Israelite nation remain a testament to their role in God's unfolding plan for His people. The Reubenite Settlement, as part of the larger Transjordanian inheritance, underscores the diversity and unity of the tribes of Israel, each with its unique place and purpose within the divine covenant.