Joshua 22 1

Joshua 22:1 kjv

Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh,

Joshua 22:1 nkjv

Then Joshua called the Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh,

Joshua 22:1 niv

Then Joshua summoned the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh

Joshua 22:1 esv

At that time Joshua summoned the Reubenites and the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh,

Joshua 22:1 nlt

Then Joshua called together the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

Joshua 22 verses

Joshua 22 1 Meaning

This verse marks a pivotal moment as Joshua initiates the dismissal of the eastern tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—from their active service in the Israelite conquest. Having fulfilled their commitment to fight alongside their brethren in Canaan, they are now called forth by Joshua, signaling the impending completion of their primary obligation and their return to their inheritances east of the Jordan River. It highlights the structured leadership of Joshua and the covenant faithfulness demanded of the tribes.

Joshua 22 1 Context

Joshua chapter 22 marks a significant transition within the Book of Joshua. The main campaigns of conquest in Canaan are largely complete, and the land has been primarily allotted among the nine and a half western tribes. This verse initiates the formal dismissal of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh who had earlier settled their families and flocks east of the Jordan River (Num 32, Deut 3) but had pledged to cross the Jordan and assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the land of Canaan. This dismissal signifies the fulfillment of their solemn oath and highlights Joshua's role in maintaining the integrity of the covenant made by Moses. It paves the way for a crucial, but almost disastrous, theological conflict that will immediately follow concerning a large altar these eastern tribes would build on their way home.

Joshua 22 1 Word analysis

• Then (wayehi, וַיְהִי): This common Hebrew conjunction, "and it was," or "and it came to pass," denotes a sequential progression of events. Here, it signifies the culmination of the conquest period and the beginning of the next phase for the nation of Israel, specifically the dismissal of the eastern tribes. It establishes a direct flow from the preceding narrative of land distribution to the recognition of these tribes' completed duty.
• Joshua (Yehoshua, יְהוֹשֻׁעַ): Meaning "Yahweh is salvation" or "Yahweh saves." As Moses' chosen successor, Joshua is consistently depicted as a faithful leader who executes God's commands. His name echoes the ultimate salvation to come through the Messiah. In this verse, he acts in his authoritative capacity as the commander of all Israel, fulfilling the promise made by Moses to the eastern tribes.
• summoned (yiqra, וַיִּקְרָא): From the root "qara," meaning "to call," "to summon," "to proclaim." It implies a formal and authoritative convocation, not merely a casual greeting. Joshua calls them together publicly, acknowledging their contribution and providing public recognition for their faithfulness. This act reflects a military or formal dismissal ceremony, highlighting his leadership.
• the Reubenites (hare'uveni, הָרְאוּבֵנִי): Descendants of Reuben, Jacob's firstborn. This tribe, along with Gad and half-Manasseh, chose an inheritance on the eastern side of the Jordan. Their historical significance includes the tribe of Reuben often being noted for instability but here demonstrating significant faithfulness to their oath.
• the Gadites (haggadi, הַגָּדִי): Descendants of Gad. Like Reuben, they sought land east of the Jordan for their abundant livestock. Their presence here signifies their active participation alongside their brethren, fulfilling the condition for their inheritance.
• and the half-tribe of Manasseh (vaḥatsi sheveṭ menasheh, וַחֲצִי שֵׁבֶט מְנַשֶּׁה): Manasseh, one of Joseph's sons, received a dual inheritance: one part west of the Jordan (with Ephraim) and another part east of the Jordan, necessitating this unique "half-tribe" designation. Their division speaks to the strategic settlement pattern of Israel. This detail emphasizes the careful distribution and the unity maintained despite geographical separation.
• Words-group by words-group analysis:
  • "Then Joshua summoned": This phrase establishes Joshua's central leadership role at this critical juncture. It indicates an intentional and authoritative act on his part, fulfilling the administrative duties entrusted to him after the successful completion of the major conquest. It signifies an orderly leadership and transition within Israel.
  • "the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh": This specific listing of the three trans-Jordanian tribes highlights the particular group being addressed. It underscores their unique agreement with Moses, setting them apart from the tribes who received their full inheritance on the western side of the Jordan. It acknowledges their distinct identity yet their participation in the united national endeavor.

Joshua 22 1 Bonus section

The precise timing of this summons, after the land had been allotted to the western tribes, underscores the principle of complete obedience. The eastern tribes waited until their duty was truly done, not leaving prematurely once their own personal goal (receiving land east of Jordan) was secured. This also subtly introduces a tension point regarding their geographical separation, as future verses will show this led to concerns about spiritual separation, highlighting the challenges of maintaining unity across physical divides within the nation of God. It sets the stage for a dramatic incident concerning unity and covenant fidelity that almost erupts into civil war.

Joshua 22 1 Commentary

Joshua 22:1 initiates the final significant public act of Joshua before the epilogue of the book. It is a moment of both commendation and transition. Joshua, acting as the divinely appointed leader, formally summons the trans-Jordanian tribes who had steadfastly honored their commitment to fight alongside their brethren. This summoning is not merely a formality but a public acknowledgment of their crucial role in the conquest and their adherence to the covenant oath made generations prior to Moses. Their faithful participation demonstrated the unity of Israel and their shared commitment to God's directives. The verse underscores God's faithfulness in bringing His people to a time of rest and the importance of human obedience in response. It serves as a reminder that corporate responsibilities, once committed to, must be fully discharged before individual interests are pursued, paving the way for God's blessings and peace.