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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:1. It’s a really important part of the story of how Joshua led the Israelites into Canaan after the battle against the Philistines. Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Joshua was gathering people to lead them further into the land of Israel. Let’s unpack that a little bit: “Joshua called…” This tells us that Joshua wasn’t just randomly assembling a group; he actively decided to gather these individuals. “…the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh.” This is where it gets interesting. Let's translate each part: Reubenites: This refers to the people who were with Moses in the Exodus story – they were the first Israelites. Gadites: These are the people who were with Moses in the Exodus story – they were the second group of Israelites. Manasseh: This is a tribe that was part of Israel before the division into tribes. It’s important because it’s the tribe that was not included in the final division of the land. So, Joshua was essentially calling these groups together to lead the Israelites further into Canaan. Why is this significant? It shows that Joshua wasn't just focusing on a single battle; he was strategically planning for the future expansion of the Israelite nation. It’s a key step in the biblical narrative leading up to the conquest of Canaan. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these groups in more detail? Give you some context about why this gathering happened? Discuss what this verse might suggest about Joshua's leadership or the future of Israel?

Definition: And when they came unto the borders of Jordan, that [are] in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh built there an altar by Jordan, a great altar to see to.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:10. It’s a pretty dramatic passage about a serious transgression. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Situation: After the Israelites had conquered the land of Canaan (the area now known as Israel), they were moving further into it. Building an Altar: A group of Reuben, Gad, and a portion of Manasseh (a tribe of people that was left behind) decided to build a massive altar right by the Jordan River. “A Great Altar” : This isn't just any altar – it’s a huge, ornate one built specifically for observation. They wanted to watch and see something. What It Means in Terms of God’s Perspective: This act was seen as a serious disrespect towards God and a sign of rebellion against divine law. It suggests: They were trying to be independent: They weren't just building an altar; they were attempting to establish their own authority over the land, defying God’s established order. A Test of Faith: It’s likely that this action was a test of whether the Israelites were truly committed to following God’s instructions and living according to His laws. A Warning: It's a warning to the Israelites – they needed to be more mindful of their relationship with God and remember to honor Him in all things. Important Note: This verse is a bit unsettling because it shows a moment of pride and defiance that went against what was expected of them as a nation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore the meaning behind the symbolism of an altar in biblical stories?

Definition: And the children of Israel heard say, Behold, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh have built an altar over against the land of Canaan, in the borders of Jordan, at the passage of the children of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 22:11. It’s a really significant and troubling part of the story of the Israelites’ wandering in the wilderness. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: They Built an Altar: The Israelites, after being given a special blessing by God, decided to build an altar – a sacred place – over against the land of Canaan (the area around modern-day Israel). It’s in the Borderlands: This altar was built right on the border of the Promised Land. Think of it as a boundary marker between their territory and the land God promised them. What's the Significance? This act is incredibly important because it demonstrates a serious challenge to God's plan. It signifies: Disobedience: They were disobeying God’s instructions – specifically, that they shouldn’t build anything on the land of Canaan. The verse says “And the children of Israel…” which means they disobeyed God directly. Pride and Rebellion: Building an altar was a symbol of pride and rebellion against God's authority. It shows they weren’t willing to follow what God told them. Why is this important in the larger story? This event sets the stage for some really challenging things that happen later in the book of Joshua. It foreshadows a period of intense conflict and separation between the Israelites and their ancestral homeland, ultimately leading to the division of the tribes and the establishment of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. In short, this verse is a stark reminder of a moment where the Israelites strayed from God's guidance and created a significant obstacle to their eventual return to the land they were promised. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss a specific theme related to this passage (like disobedience, faith, or God’s judgment)?

Definition: And when the children of Israel heard [of it], the whole congregation of the children of Israel gathered themselves together at Shiloh, to go up to war against them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Joshua 22:12. It’s a really significant moment in the story of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us that after they had heard about the planned attack against the Canaanites, the Israelites gathered together at Shiloh to prepare for war. Let’s unpack it a little further: “Joshua 22” : This refers to a previous event where Joshua was instructed by God to take revenge on the Canaanites. “And when the children of Israel heard…” : This means that the Israelites, after hearing about the coming attack, became aware of it. It’s like they started to understand what was happening. “…the whole congregation of the children of Israel gathered themselves together at Shiloh” : This is a key point. “Gathered themselves” means they came together – they joined forces. “Shiloh” was a very important place in ancient Israelite tradition, considered a sacred site. "...to go up to war against them." : This is the core of the verse. They decided that they would attack the Canaanites. It’s a clear instruction – they were going to fight. So, it's a story about preparation and impending conflict. It shows how God guided the Israelites to take action, even though they were initially hesitant or unsure. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a warning, but it also highlights God’s plan for the Israelites to eventually conquer Canaan. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Give you some context about Shiloh?

Definition: And the children of Israel sent unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the half tribe of Manasseh, into the land of Gilead, Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:13. It’s a really significant part of the story of how God helped Israel escape a terrible crisis and ultimately establish their future home. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Israel was in trouble: Around 1400 years ago, Israel was facing a devastating situation. They were being pursued by the Midianites, a group of people who had taken over land they were supposed to be tending. They were essentially being forced out of their homes and territories. The Israelites sent out messengers: God asked Moses to send a group of leaders – specifically Joshua, Benjamin (a son of Joshua), and others – to find a safe place for the Israelites to settle. What happened next: They sent to Gilead: These leaders sent their message to the tribes of Reuben and Gad (two of the sons of Joseph). They also sent a group of people called Manasseh, led by Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest. Phinehas’s Role: This is where it gets interesting. Phinehas was a special warrior – he was skilled in using poisonous arrows to kill enemies. He was tasked with protecting the Israelites from the Midianites. He used this skill to lead a group of people (the Manasseh tribe) out of the way, effectively avoiding a major battle and allowing the Israelites to escape. So, what’s the point? This verse highlights several important things: God's Protection: It shows that God is actively involved in protecting his people, even when they are facing difficult circumstances. Divine Intervention: It demonstrates that God doesn’t just allow things to happen; He intervenes to protect and guide us. Faith and Courage: The story of Phinehas emphasizes the importance of faith and bravery in times of crisis - even when it seems impossible. In short, this verse describes a strategic move by God – sending a group of trusted leaders out of the way to help the Israelites escape their troubles. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the significance of Phinehas’s role in more detail?

Definition: And with him ten princes, of each chief house a prince throughout all the tribes of Israel; and each one [was] an head of the house of their fathers among the thousands of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 22:14. It’s a really important passage about leadership and obedience! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse describes how God chose leaders for the Israelites after the battle of Jericho. Here’s a more detailed explanation: “And with him ten princes…” : This refers to a group of people – ten men – who were chosen as leaders. These weren't just any ordinary soldiers; they were selected based on their importance and connection to the tribe of Israel. “…of each chief house a prince throughout all the tribes of Israel” : This is the key part. Each of these ten princes was given a very important position – a “Prince” – within a specific tribe of Israel. They were essentially the heads of that tribe’s families and communities. “…and each one [was] an head of the house of their fathers among the thousands of Israel.” : This is where it gets really significant. The ten princes weren't just in charge ; they held a special, almost regal status. They were considered to be the direct descendants of the oldest and most important leaders of the tribe. They represented the entire tribe and were responsible for ensuring the tribe’s well-being and loyalty to God. So, what was the point of this arrangement? The Bible says this system was put in place to ensure that the Israelites would obey God's commands and stay faithful to him. By having these leaders chosen and positioned with such authority, it was believed that they would act as a reminder of God’s presence and guidance. It was a way for God to show his favor and protect his people. In short, this verse describes a carefully structured system of leadership designed to ensure obedience and loyalty to God among the Israelites. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a particular context (like the story of Joshua)?

Definition: And they came unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the half tribe of Manasseh, unto the land of Gilead, and they spake with them, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 22:15. It’s a really interesting part of the story of how God helped Israel establish their home in the Promised Land. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: After the Israelites had been camped for a while, God sent angels to help them settle into a new place. They used these angels to speak with the people and encourage them to move towards a specific location – Gilead. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “And they came unto the children of Reuben…” - This means they traveled towards the Reuben tribe, one of the twelve tribes that formed the foundation of Israel. “…and to the children of Gad…” - They continued traveling to the Gad tribe, another group of twelve tribes. “…and to the half tribe of Manasseh…” – This is the most significant part. They went to the half-tribe of Manasseh. This tribe was a bit smaller and often overlooked in early Israelite history. It's important because it’s where the land of Gilead (a valley in the Jordan River) was located. “…unto the land of Gilead…” - They finally arrived at the location that God promised them – the land of Gilead. “And they spake with them, saying” – This is the key part! The angels were speaking to the people. The verse continues with their words, suggesting a message of encouragement and guidance. Overall Meaning: This passage shows that God was actively involved in helping Israel settle into its new home. He used angelic messengers to encourage the people to move towards a specific place, and those messengers spoke to them, offering hope and reassurance. Why is this important? It's a powerful example of God’s active role in history – He doesn’t just allow things to happen; He actively guides and helps us! --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to other stories in the Bible?

Definition: Thus saith the whole congregation of the LORD, What trespass [is] this that ye have committed against the God of Israel, to turn away this day from following the LORD, in that ye have builded you an altar, that ye might rebel this day against the LORD?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Joshua 22:16. It’s a really important and dramatic passage about a serious rebellion. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: Joshua is speaking to the Israelites. He’s a leader, and he’s addressing them after they've built an altar – essentially, a place to worship God in a way that feels like defiance. They’ve committed a serious transgression: The verse says they’ve “committed against the God of Israel.” This is a big deal because it means they’re defying God directly. The altar is the key: They built an altar, which is a symbol of worship – a place to focus their adoration and obedience to God. But this altar is too focused on themselves and their own desires, rather than on worshipping Him. What's the Message? Joshua is saying that this act of building an altar is a sign of rebellion against God. It’s not just about a simple desire to worship; it's about prioritizing their will over God’s will. They've become so focused on doing things their way, rather than being in a relationship with God, that they’ve lost sight of the purpose of worship – to honor and obey Him. In short: They’ve turned away from following God by building an altar and focusing on their own desires instead of His. Why is this significant? This verse is part of a larger story in the Bible about disobedience and rebellion against God's authority. It’s a warning to the Israelites – they need to remember that true worship comes from a relationship with God, not from building things or focusing on their own wants. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this passage in the Bible?

Definition: [Is] the iniquity of Peor too little for us, from which we are not cleansed until this day, although there was a plague in the congregation of the LORD,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:17. It’s a really significant and complex passage about sin and cleansing in the Old Testament. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about how deeply sinful we are and how God’s plan for us to be cleansed is still ongoing, even after a terrible event. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Joshua 22:17 [Is] the iniquity of Peor…” – "Peor" was a very prominent and powerful figure in ancient Israelite society. Think of him as a kind of king or leader, but with significant wickedness and rebellion. “Iniquity” means "evil deeds" or "sin." So, this phrase is saying that the actions of Peor were extremely evil – he caused great harm and trouble. “…too little for us…” - This emphasizes how much sin we've committed. It wasn’t enough to simply punish him; it was a monumental amount. “from which we are not cleansed until this day…” - This is the crucial part. The verse says that God didn’t fully cleanse us from our sins after Peor's actions. He hasn't finished the process. It means there’s still a lingering effect of his wickedness. “although there was a plague in the congregation of the LORD…” - This adds a layer of urgency and intensity. A “plague” is a severe affliction or disease, often associated with divine punishment. The fact that there was a plague during the assembly of God’s people (the priests and leaders) suggests that the sin of Peor was so profound that it caused a real spiritual crisis. It wasn't just a minor problem; it threatened the entire community. So, putting it all together: Joshua 22:17 says that the evil deeds of Peor were too much for us to overcome completely. And God didn’t fully cleanse us from those actions until today. There's still a lingering consequence of his wickedness and a reminder of the seriousness of our sins, especially when they involve such significant betrayal and trouble. What does this mean in practical terms? This verse is a powerful warning about the permanence of sin and the ongoing need for God’s grace and forgiveness. It highlights that we are not always free from temptation or wrongdoing, and that we are constantly under His judgment. --- Resources if you want to learn more: [Bible Gateway](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources): You can search for this verse and read different translations and commentaries. [Wikipedia - Joshua 22]: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joshua_22] (Provides a good overview of the context) Do you want me to explain any part of this in more detail, or perhaps discuss its significance within the broader story of Israel’s history?

Definition: But that ye must turn away this day from following the LORD? and it will be, [seeing] ye rebel to day against the LORD, that to morrow he will be wroth with the whole congregation of Israel.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:18. It’s a really serious warning about disobedience and God’s wrath. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means: This passage is telling us that if we continue to disobey God's commands, he will be incredibly angry with the entire Israel nation. It's a direct consequence of choosing to stray from what He has given us. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But that ye must turn away this day..." – This is a clear instruction. It’s asking us to immediately stop doing something wrong. It's not about occasional mistakes, but about consistently choosing disobedience. "...from following the LORD?" – This is the core of the warning. “Following the Lord” means obeying God's laws and commands. It means listening to His voice and living a life that honors Him. "...and it will be, [seeing] ye rebel to day against the LORD..." - This is the consequence. If we continue to disobey, God will see (or “witness”) our rebellion against Him. "Rebellion" means going against God's will and ignoring His guidance. "...that to morrow he will be wroth with the whole congregation of Israel." – This is the terrifying part. "Wroth with" means angry or furious. And “the whole congregation of Israel” refers to all of Israel, meaning everyone in their nation. God’s wrath – His intense anger and punishment – will be unleashed upon them because of our disobedience. In simpler terms: It's a warning against defying God's rules and commands. If we continue to do that, He will punish us severely with anger and possibly even destruction. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a serious warning about the dangers of idolatry – worshipping false gods instead of the one true God. It highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God’s laws. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this passage? Discuss what this verse might be saying in a broader context (like its relationship to the story of Joshua)?