Joshua 1:15

KJV

Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as [he hath given] you, and they also have possessed the land which the LORD your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the LORD'S servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising.

KJV (with Strong's)

Until the LORD {H3068} have given {H5117} your brethren {H251} rest {H5117}, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed {H3423} the land {H776} which the LORD {H3068} your God {H430} giveth {H5414} them: then ye shall return {H7725} unto the land {H776} of your possession {H3425}, and enjoy {H3423} it, which Moses {H4872} the LORD'S {H3068} servant {H5650} gave {H5414} you on this side {H5676} Jordan {H3383} toward the sunrising {H4217}{H8121}.

Complete Jewish Bible

until ADONAI allows your brothers to rest, as he has allowed you; and they too have taken possession of the land ADONAI your God is giving them. At that point, you will return to the land which is yours and possess it, the land Moshe the servant of ADONAI gave you in 'Ever-HaYarden to the east, toward the sunrise."

Berean Standard Bible

until the LORD gives them rest as He has done for you, and your brothers also possess the land that the LORD your God is giving them. Then you may return to the land of your inheritance and take possession of that which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the east side of the Jordan.”

American Standard Version

until Jehovah have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which Jehovah your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and possess it, which Moses the servant of Jehovah gave you beyond the Jordan toward the sunrising.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 1:15 articulates the binding agreement for the Transjordanian tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—stipulating their essential participation in the conquest of Canaan. This verse underscores their solemn commitment to Moses and their fellow Israelites, emphasizing that their own enjoyment of their inheritance was contingent upon their faithful assistance until all the other tribes had secured their promised land and experienced God's divine rest, thereby reinforcing principles of corporate responsibility and covenant obedience.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 1:15 serves as the concluding directive in Joshua’s initial charge to the Transjordanian tribes, specifically the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, which commences in [Joshua 1:12](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1:12 - Joshua's Charge to the Transjordanian Tribes"). Following the death of Moses, Joshua assumes leadership, and his first major act is to remind these tribes of their prior agreement to send their armed men across the Jordan River to fight alongside their brethren. This verse acts as the climax of this instruction, clearly outlining the conditions under which they may return to their own inheritance. It establishes a critical precedent for unity and shared responsibility, which is foundational for the success of the overarching conquest narrative detailed throughout the book of Joshua. The placement of this command early in the book immediately sets the tone for Israel's corporate endeavor.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical foundation for this verse lies in the specific agreement made between Moses and the Transjordanian tribes, extensively documented in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Request of Reuben and Gad") and reaffirmed in [Deuteronomy 3:18-20](/deuteronomy/3-18-20 "Deuteronomy 3:18-20 - Moses' Command to the Transjordanian Tribes"). These tribes, possessing substantial livestock, recognized the suitability of the pasturelands on the east side of the Jordan River, described as "on this side Jordan toward the sunrising." Moses granted their request for this land as their inheritance, but only under the strict condition that their fighting men would spearhead the invasion into Canaan and remain with the other tribes until the entire land was subdued and each tribe had received its allotted inheritance. This arrangement reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of covenant obligations, where promises made were legally and religiously binding, carrying significant societal and spiritual weight.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 1:15 powerfully reinforces several overarching themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. First, **Covenant Faithfulness and Obedience** is paramount; the verse highlights the expectation that the Transjordanian tribes would honor their solemn pledge made to Moses, which was ultimately a commitment before the [LORD](/deuteronomy/3-18 "Deuteronomy 3:18 - Moses' Command to the Transjordanian Tribes"). Their obedience to this specific command was indicative of their faithfulness to the larger covenant God had established with Israel. Second, **Corporate Responsibility and Unity** is a foundational principle; the verse explicitly states that the tribes were not to seek their own "rest" until their brethren also achieved theirs. This emphasizes that the nation of Israel was a single body, and the success of any part was inextricably linked to the cooperative effort and sacrifice of all. The conquest of the Promised Land, as detailed throughout [Joshua](/joshua/1 "The Book of Joshua - Conquest and Inheritance"), required a unified front. Finally, the concept of **Divine Rest and Possession** is central. The "rest" (Hebrew: _nûwach_) signifies more than a cessation of warfare; it implies a state of peace, security, and settled dwelling, a divinely granted tranquility in the land. The promise that the Transjordanian tribes would "enjoy" their land after their service underscores that God honors obedience and provides true peace and security to His people once His purposes are fulfilled. This theme of divine rest echoes through the Old Testament and finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rest (Hebrew, _nûwach'_):** From the primitive root H5117, this word signifies "to rest" or "to settle down." In the context of Joshua 1:15, it denotes a state of secure dwelling, tranquility, and cessation from conflict. It implies a divinely granted peace and stability in the land, free from external threats, representing the fulfillment of God's promise of a secure inheritance for Israel. This "rest" is not merely passive inactivity but a settled existence in their God-given territory.
* **Possessed (Hebrew, _yârash'_):** Derived from the primitive root H3423, this verb means "to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place)," "to seize," or "to inherit." In this verse, "possessed" emphasizes the active and complete taking of ownership of the land. It implies the successful conquest and permanent establishment of Israel's claim to the territories God promised, involving the displacement of the Canaanite inhabitants and the secure settlement of the Israelite tribes.
* **Land (Hebrew, _ʼerets'_):** From an unused root meaning "to be firm," H776 refers to "the earth (at large, or partitively a land)." In Joshua 1:15, "land" specifically denotes the physical territory of Canaan, the Promised Land, which is the central object of God's covenant promise to Israel. It represents the tangible inheritance given by God, a place of dwelling, security, and blessing, whose possession is contingent upon obedience and corporate effort.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as [he hath given] you,"**: This clause establishes the primary condition for the Transjordanian tribes' return to their inheritance. Their armed men must remain with the other tribes until God grants a state of secure dwelling, peace, and settled existence to their brethren on the west side of the Jordan. The phrase "as he hath given you" highlights that the Transjordanian tribes had already experienced a measure of this rest in their own territories, underscoring the corporate nature of God's blessing and the shared responsibility for its full attainment by the entire nation.
* **"and they also have possessed the land which the LORD your God giveth them:"**: This further clarifies the condition for their return. Not only must their brethren experience "rest," but they must also actively and completely "possess" their allotted inheritance. This emphasizes the active role of the Israelites in taking what God has promised, implying military conquest, displacement of previous inhabitants, and secure settlement. The phrase "which the LORD your God giveth them" reiterates the divine origin and legitimacy of their claim to the land, emphasizing God's sovereignty in the distribution of territories.
* **"then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it,"**: This clause states the consequence and reward for fulfilling their obligation. Once the conditions of their brethren's rest and possession are met, the Transjordanian tribes are permitted to return to their own inherited land. The word "enjoy" (from the same root as "possessed," _yârash_) signifies settling down, being at ease, and experiencing the full benefit and blessing of their possession, free from further military obligation, having fulfilled their corporate duty.
* **"which Moses the LORD'S servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising."**: This final clause serves as a geographical and historical anchor. It precisely specifies the location of their inheritance—east of the Jordan River—and attributes its giving to Moses, explicitly identifying him as "the LORD'S servant." This appellation reinforces the divine authority behind the original agreement, validating the legitimacy of their land claim and the terms of their service. "Toward the sunrising" is a common biblical idiom denoting the eastern direction.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 1:15 employs several significant literary devices to convey its message with clarity and emphasis. The primary device is a **Conditional Clause**, structured as an "until...then" statement, which precisely delineates the prerequisite actions (the other tribes receiving rest and possessing their land) before the Transjordanian tribes can enjoy their own inheritance. This structure powerfully emphasizes the binding nature of their commitment and the sequential fulfillment of God's plan for the entire nation. There is also a strong element of **Repetition** and **Emphasis** on the concepts of "rest" and "possession," highlighting these as key outcomes of God's faithfulness and Israel's obedience. The phrase "the LORD'S servant" applied to Moses is a title of high honor and authority, serving as a form of **Appellation** that lends significant weight and divine sanction to the original agreement. Finally, the entire verse functions as a **Summary Statement** of a complex, pre-existing agreement, distilling its core terms into a concise and memorable command that sets the stage for the unified conquest.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 1:15 transcends a mere logistical command, offering a profound theological statement on covenant faithfulness, corporate unity, and the nature of God's promised rest. It teaches that God's blessings, particularly the "rest" and "possession" of the land, are often realized through human obedience and cooperative effort within the community of faith. The principle that one part of the body cannot fully enjoy its blessings until the needs of the whole are met resonates deeply with New Testament teachings on the church and the body of Christ. This verse underscores that true spiritual "rest" is tied to fulfilling one's God-given responsibilities and supporting fellow believers in their journey of faith and obedience. It anticipates a deeper, spiritual rest that transcends physical land, pointing to the ultimate peace found in God's presence.

* [Numbers 32:20-23](/numbers/32-20-23 "Numbers 32:20-23 - Moses' Warning to the Transjordanian Tribes")
* [Deuteronomy 3:18-20](/deuteronomy/3-18-20 "Deuteronomy 3:18-20 - Moses' Charge to the Transjordanian Tribes")
* [Hebrews 4:9-11](/hebrews/4-9-11 "The Sabbath Rest for the People of God")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 1:15 offers timeless principles for believers today, emphasizing the profound importance of integrity, corporate responsibility, and patient service within the community of faith. Just as the Transjordanian tribes were called to honor their word and prioritize the common good before their own settlement, we are reminded of the necessity of fulfilling our commitments, whether to God or to others. This verse challenges us to consider whether we are truly willing to defer our own comfort and immediate gratification for the sake of our spiritual family. It calls us to active participation in the "battles" of faith, supporting one another until all have found their "rest" in Christ and fully possessed their spiritual inheritance. Our willingness to serve sacrificially for the advancement of God's kingdom and the well-being of our brethren is a powerful testament to our faithfulness and trust in God's ultimate provision and peace, demonstrating a maturity that prioritizes the collective spiritual flourishing over individual convenience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What commitments have I made to God or to fellow believers that I need to faithfully fulfill before seeking my own "rest" or comfort?**
* **In what ways am I currently prioritizing my own desires or convenience over the corporate good and spiritual progress of my community of faith?**
* **How can I actively participate in helping my "brethren" (fellow believers) find their "rest" and "possess" their spiritual inheritance in Christ?**
* **What does "enjoying" my spiritual possession truly mean, and how does it relate to sacrificial service and unity within the body of Christ?**

### FAQ
**Why were the Transjordanian tribes allowed to settle outside the main Promised Land, and what was the significance of their agreement?**

Answer: The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh requested land east of the Jordan River because it was well-suited for their large herds of livestock, as detailed in [Numbers 32:1-5](/numbers/32-1-5 "Numbers 32:1-5 - The Request for Transjordanian Land"). Moses granted their request, but on the strict condition that their armed men would cross the Jordan first, lead the charge in the conquest of Canaan, and remain with the other tribes until all the land was subdued and each tribe had received its inheritance ([Numbers 32:16-27](/numbers/32-16-27 "Numbers 32:16-27 - The Agreement with Moses")). The significance of this agreement was twofold: it demonstrated God's flexibility in providing for His people's specific needs while simultaneously reinforcing the principle of corporate unity and shared responsibility in fulfilling God's covenant purposes for the entire nation of Israel. It underscored that no tribe was an island; the success and blessing of one depended on the faithful participation of all.

**What does "rest" mean in the context of Joshua 1:15, and how is it achieved?**

Answer: In Joshua 1:15, "rest" (Hebrew: _nûwach_) signifies more than simply stopping warfare. It refers to a state of secure, peaceful, and settled dwelling in the land, free from the threat of enemies and enjoying the full blessings of God's provision. This rest was a key component of God's promise to Israel for their inheritance in Canaan. It was to be achieved through a combination of divine action (the LORD giving rest) and human obedience and effort (the tribes possessing the land through conquest). The Transjordanian tribes were to help their brethren achieve this rest before they could fully settle into their own. Ultimately, this physical rest in the land foreshadowed a deeper, spiritual rest found in God, as explored in [Hebrews 4](/hebrews/4 "Hebrews 4 - The Promise of Rest").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 1:15, with its emphasis on corporate responsibility, deferred gratification, and the promise of "rest" and "possession," finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. The physical land of Canaan and the "rest" found within it served as a type and shadow of the spiritual inheritance and ultimate rest that believers receive in Christ. Just as the Transjordanian tribes had to participate in the conquest for the sake of their brethren before enjoying their own inheritance, believers in Christ are called to a corporate mission, working together as the body of Christ to advance His kingdom and see others come into the spiritual "rest" that He offers. Jesus Himself declares, "[Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' Invitation to Rest")" (Matthew 11:28), fulfilling the deepest longing for true _nûwach_. Our true "possession" is not a physical land but a spiritual inheritance "in Christ" ([Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - Our Inheritance in Christ")), secured by His finished work on the cross. We are called to live out our faith in unity, serving one another and proclaiming the gospel, knowing that our ultimate "rest" and "enjoyment" are found not in earthly possessions but in the eternal life and peace that Christ provides, as we await the full realization of our heavenly inheritance ([Hebrews 4:9-10](/hebrews/4-9-10 "Hebrews 4:9-10 - The True Sabbath Rest")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 2:4

Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Numbers 32:17

But we ourselves will go ready armed before the children of Israel, until we have brought them unto their place: and our little ones shall dwell in the fenced cities because of the inhabitants of the land.

Numbers 32:22

And the land be subdued before the LORD: then afterward ye shall return, and be guiltless before the LORD, and before Israel; and this land shall be your possession before the LORD.

1 Corinthians 13:5

Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

Galatians 5:13

¶ For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only [use] not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

1 Corinthians 12:26

And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

Joshua 22:4

And now the LORD your God hath given rest unto your brethren, as he promised them: therefore now return ye, and get you unto your tents, [and] unto the land of your possession, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you on the other side Jordan.