Joshua 22:31

KJV

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the children of Manasseh, This day we perceive that the LORD [is] among us, because ye have not committed this trespass against the LORD: now ye have delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of the LORD.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Phinehas {H6372} the son {H1121} of Eleazar {H499} the priest {H3548} said {H559} unto the children {H1121} of Reuben {H7205}, and to the children {H1121} of Gad {H1410}, and to the children {H1121} of Manasseh {H4519}, This day {H3117} we perceive {H3045} that the LORD {H3068} is among {H8432} us, because ye have not committed {H4603} this trespass {H4604} against the LORD {H3068}: now {H227} ye have delivered {H5337} the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} out of the hand {H3027} of the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Pinchas the son of El'azar the cohen said to the descendants of Re'uven, the descendants of Gad and the descendants of M'nasheh, "Today we know that ADONAI is here with us, because you have not committed this treasonous act against ADONAI. Now you have saved the people of Isra'el from the anger of ADONAI."

Berean Standard Bible

Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest said to the descendants of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh, “Today we know that the LORD is among us, because you have not committed this breach of faith against Him. Consequently, you have delivered the Israelites from the hand of the LORD.”

American Standard Version

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the children of Manasseh, This day we know that Jehovah is in the midst of us, because ye have not committed this trespass against Jehovah: now have ye delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 22:31 captures the pivotal moment of reconciliation and profound relief following a near-catastrophic misunderstanding between the Transjordanian and Cisjordanian tribes of Israel. Phinehas, representing the western tribes, declares that God's presence remains among them, recognizing that the eastern tribes' construction of an altar was not an act of rebellion or idolatry, but a faithful witness to their shared covenant identity. This declaration signifies the aversion of divine judgment and the preservation of national unity, affirming Israel's fidelity to the LORD.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climax and resolution of Joshua chapter 22. The narrative begins with Joshua dismissing the Transjordanian tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh) to their inheritance east of the Jordan River, commending their faithfulness in the conquest. Upon their return, these tribes build a large, conspicuous altar by the Jordan. The tribes west of the Jordan immediately interpret this as an act of apostasy, a direct violation of the command to worship only at the central sanctuary in Shiloh. Their extreme reaction, preparing for war, underscores the gravity with which they viewed any deviation from covenant fidelity. Phinehas, known for his zeal for the LORD (cf. [Numbers 25:7-13](/numbers/25-7 "Numbers 25:7-13 - Phinehas's Zeal")), leads a delegation to confront the eastern tribes. Joshua 22:31 records Phinehas's joyous declaration after the Transjordanian tribes explain their altar was a "witness" (Hebrew: _'ed_) to their shared heritage and not for illicit sacrifice, thus averting civil war and confirming God's continued presence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society was a theocracy, where national well-being was directly tied to covenant obedience. The command to worship at a single, central sanctuary was foundational to maintaining the purity of Israel's monotheistic faith and preventing syncretism with pagan practices (cf. [Deuteronomy 12:5-14](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5-14 - The Central Place of Worship")). Any act perceived as idolatry or a breach of this command was seen as a corporate sin that could provoke divine wrath upon the entire nation. Previous instances of corporate sin, such as the incident at Peor ([Numbers 25:1-9](/numbers/25-1 "Numbers 25:1-9 - The Sin at Peor")) or Achan's sin at Ai ([Joshua 7:1-26](/joshua/7-1 "Joshua 7:1-26 - Achan's Sin and Its Consequences")), had resulted in severe national judgment, including plague and military defeat. This historical memory fueled the western tribes' swift and aggressive response, highlighting their deep-seated fear of offending the LORD and losing His protective presence. The construction of a large altar, typically associated with sacrifice, was a highly provocative act in this context, demanding immediate clarification.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 22:31 profoundly contributes to several key themes within the book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Presence and Covenant Fidelity**. Phinehas's declaration, "we perceive that the LORD is among us," signifies that God's covenantal presence, the ultimate sign of His favor and blessing, had not been withdrawn. This is directly linked to the eastern tribes' **Fidelity to the Covenant**, as their explanation demonstrated unwavering commitment to the Mosaic Law and their desire to maintain their connection to the central worship of Israel, preventing a catastrophic schism. The entire episode also powerfully illustrates the **Importance of Communication and Unity**. The near-civil war underscores the critical need for clear, open dialogue to prevent misunderstanding and conflict within God's people, emphasizing that hasty judgment can lead to severe consequences. Finally, the relief expressed highlights the theme of **Deliverance from Corporate Judgment**, as the tribes' innocence averted the "hand of the LORD," which would have brought divine wrath upon the entire nation for perceived idolatry.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Perceive (Hebrew, _yāda'_)**: The verb יָדַע (_yāda'_) means "to know," "to understand," "to recognize," or "to perceive." In this context, it conveys a deep, experiential understanding or conviction. Phinehas and the delegation haven't just received information; they have come to a profound realization. Their "perception" is not merely intellectual assent but a spiritual discernment that God's favor and presence remain with Israel because the perceived sin was not committed. It implies a shift from suspicion and fear to relief and assurance, based on the revealed truth of the eastern tribes' intentions.
* **Trespass (Hebrew, _ma'al_)**: The noun מַעַל (_ma'al_) denotes an act of unfaithfulness, treachery, or sacrilege against God or a sacred trust. It refers specifically to a violation of covenant obligations, often involving a breach of trust or an act of disloyalty. In the legal and theological framework of the Old Testament, _ma'al_ was a serious offense, particularly when it involved sacred things or the LORD's commands. The western tribes feared the eastern tribes had committed _ma'al_ by building an illicit altar, which would have been a direct affront to God's exclusive worship and a betrayal of the covenant. Phinehas's statement confirms that this grave "trespass" was not committed, thus averting the severe consequences associated with such an offense.
* **Hand of the LORD (Hebrew, _yad Yahweh_)**: This is a powerful and frequently used idiom in the Old Testament, referring to God's active power, authority, and intervention. The "hand of the LORD" can signify both divine judgment (e.g., plague, punishment, defeat) and divine deliverance or blessing. In Joshua 22:31, "out of the hand of the LORD" specifically refers to being spared from the potential divine wrath or punitive action that would have been unleashed upon Israel had the Transjordanian tribes indeed committed idolatry. Phinehas's words underscore the immense gravity of the situation and the profound relief that the nation had been "delivered" from the imminent threat of God's judgment, which was perceived to be "in His hand" ready to strike.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the children of Manasseh,"**: This opening clause identifies the speaker, Phinehas, emphasizing his priestly authority and lineage (son of Eleazar, grandson of Aaron). His role as head of the delegation gives his words significant weight. The specific naming of the Transjordanian tribes highlights the direct and formal nature of this address, underscoring the importance of the reconciliation.
* **"This day we perceive that the LORD [is] among us,"**: This is the core declaration of relief and divine affirmation. "This day" emphasizes the immediate and tangible nature of their realization. The phrase "the LORD is among us" is a profound theological statement, signifying God's continued presence, favor, and covenant blessing upon the entire nation of Israel. It means that the unity and spiritual integrity of the community have been preserved, and God has not withdrawn His presence due to perceived sin.
* **"because ye have not committed this trespass against the LORD:"**: This clause provides the crucial reason for Phinehas's declaration. The absence of the "trespass" (_ma'al_)—the feared act of idolatry or disloyalty—is the basis for the assurance of God's presence. It confirms that the eastern tribes' intentions were pure and their actions were not a violation of the covenant, thereby validating their explanation of the altar's purpose.
* **"now ye have delivered the children of Israel out of the hand of the LORD."**: This final clause articulates the immense consequence of the eastern tribes' innocence. Their faithful explanation and the purity of their intentions effectively "delivered" or rescued the entire nation from the impending "hand of the LORD," which represents divine judgment. Had the trespass been real, God's wrath would have fallen upon all Israel, as seen in previous corporate judgments. Thus, the eastern tribes, by their integrity, became instruments of national salvation from divine punishment.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 22:31 primarily employs **Dialogue**, as the entire verse is a direct quotation from Phinehas, capturing the emotional and theological weight of his pronouncement. This direct speech immediately conveys the profound relief and theological insight of the moment. Furthermore, the verse utilizes a powerful **Idiom** in the phrase "out of the hand of the LORD," which vividly represents the active power of God, specifically His potential for judgment. This idiom underscores the gravity of the averted crisis and the perceived proximity of divine wrath. Finally, Phinehas's statement functions as a **Theological Statement**, articulating a core tenet of Israelite faith: God's presence is contingent upon covenant fidelity, and the absence of corporate sin ensures His continued favor and protection.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 22:31 powerfully illustrates the Old Testament principle that God's presence among His people is contingent upon their covenant fidelity and obedience. The fear of God's withdrawal, prompted by the perceived "trespass," highlights the profound value placed on maintaining a right relationship with Yahweh. The resolution, however, emphasizes God's graciousness in allowing for clarification and His readiness to remain among a people who genuinely seek to honor Him. This episode serves as a vital reminder that unity within the community of faith is not merely a social ideal but a theological imperative, safeguarded by clear communication, mutual trust, and unwavering commitment to the one true God. The deliverance from the "hand of the LORD" prefigures a greater deliverance, pointing to God's consistent character as both righteous judge and merciful redeemer.

* [Exodus 33:14-16](/exodus/33-14 "Exodus 33:14-16 - God's Presence with Israel")
* [Numbers 25:10-13](/numbers/25-10 "Numbers 25:10-13 - Phinehas's Covenant of Peace")
* [Ephesians 4:1-3](/ephesians/4-1 "Ephesians 4:1-3 - Unity in the Body of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 22:31 offers timeless lessons for individuals and communities of faith today. It serves as a potent reminder of the destructive power of misunderstanding and the redemptive power of humble, open communication. In our relationships, both within the church and beyond, we are often quick to assume the worst intentions or to judge based on incomplete information. This passage challenges us to pause, to seek clarification, and to extend grace, prioritizing unity and understanding over hasty condemnation. It also underscores the profound significance of God's presence in our lives and communities. Just as Phinehas rejoiced that the LORD was still "among us," we too should cherish and guard the presence of the Holy Spirit, living in a manner that honors God and fosters genuine fellowship. Our fidelity to Christ and His Word ensures His continued blessing and protection, delivering us from the spiritual consequences of sin and division.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What assumptions or judgments have I made about others recently that could benefit from seeking clarification or deeper understanding?**
* **How does the fear of corporate judgment in this passage inform my understanding of the seriousness of sin, both individual and communal?**
* **In what ways do I actively contribute to or detract from the unity of my faith community?**
* **How does my daily life reflect the understanding that "the LORD is among us," and what might grieve His Holy Spirit?**

### FAQ

**Why were the western tribes so quick to assume the worst and prepare for war?**

Answer: The western tribes' extreme reaction stemmed from a deep-seated fear of corporate divine judgment, a recurring theme in Israel's history. They understood that the entire nation could suffer for the sin of a few, as exemplified by the plague after the incident at [Peor](/numbers/25 "Numbers 25 - The Sin at Peor") or the defeat at Ai due to [Achan's sin](/joshua/7 "Joshua 7 - Achan's Sin"). The command for a single, central place of worship was paramount to Israel's covenant with Yahweh ([Deuteronomy 12:5-14](/deuteronomy/12-5 "Deuteronomy 12:5-14 - The Central Place of Worship")), designed to prevent idolatry and syncretism. An unauthorized altar was seen as a direct violation of this command, a "trespass" (_ma'al_) that could provoke God's wrath and lead to the withdrawal of His presence, which was essential for their survival and blessing in the Promised Land. Their zeal, though misdirected initially, reflected a genuine concern for the purity of their faith and the well-being of the nation.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 22:31, with its themes of averted judgment, restored unity, and the assurance of God's presence, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The "trespass" that the eastern tribes were accused of, and from which Israel was "delivered out of the hand of the LORD," points to the far greater trespass of humanity against a holy God. Humanity's sin incurred divine wrath and separated us from God's presence. However, through Christ, the ultimate Deliverer, we are truly rescued from the "hand of the LORD's" judgment. Jesus, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bore the full weight of God's wrath on the cross, becoming the perfect sacrifice that atones for our sins, thereby delivering us from the condemnation we justly deserved ([Romans 5:8-9](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8-9 - Christ's Sacrifice for Us")). Furthermore, the assurance that "the LORD is among us" is gloriously realized in the New Covenant. Through the Holy Spirit, Christ indwells believers, making God's presence a permanent reality within His church ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16 "John 14:16-17 - The Promise of the Holy Spirit"); [Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise to Be with Us")). He is the true altar, the ultimate witness to God's covenant faithfulness ([Hebrews 13:10](/hebrews/13-10 "Hebrews 13:10 - The Altar of Christ")), and the unifier who breaks down dividing walls, reconciling all believers into one body ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). Thus, the temporary relief and unity experienced in Joshua 22:31 are but a shadow of the eternal deliverance, perfect unity, and abiding presence of God found in Christ.

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

Leviticus 26:11

And I will set my tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you.

Leviticus 26:12

And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people.

2 Chronicles 15:2

And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD [is] with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.

Zechariah 8:23

Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days [it shall come to pass], that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard [that] God [is] with you.

Joshua 3:10

And Joshua said, Hereby ye shall know that the living God [is] among you, and [that] he will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the Perizzites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites.

Matthew 1:23

Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

Isaiah 12:6

Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great [is] the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee.