Joshua 22:33

KJV

And the thing pleased the children of Israel; and the children of Israel blessed God, and did not intend to go up against them in battle, to destroy the land wherein the children of Reuben and Gad dwelt.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the thing {H1697} pleased {H3190}{H5869} the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}; and the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} blessed {H1288} God {H430}, and did not intend {H559} to go up {H5927} against them in battle {H6635}, to destroy {H7843} the land {H776} wherein the children {H1121} of Reuben {H7205} and Gad {H1410} dwelt {H3427}.

Complete Jewish Bible

What they said satisfied the people of Isra'el. The people of Isra'el blessed God and said no more about going to wage war against the descendants of Re'uven and Gad and destroying the land where they lived.

Berean Standard Bible

The Israelites were satisfied with the report, and they blessed God and spoke no more about going to war against them to destroy the land where the Reubenites and Gadites lived.

American Standard Version

And the thing pleased the children of Israel; and the children of Israel blessed God, and spake no more of going up against them to war, to destroy the land wherein the children of Reuben and the children of Gad dwelt.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 22:33 masterfully captures the profound relief and spiritual gratitude of the Israelite tribes dwelling west of the Jordan River. Upon receiving a clear and truthful explanation regarding the altar constructed by their Transjordanian brethren (the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh), their initial suspicions of apostasy were entirely dispelled. This revelation averted what could have been a devastating civil war, prompting the western tribes to offer heartfelt praise and blessing to God for preserving the unity and integrity of the nation, thereby abandoning their intent to wage battle against their kin.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 22 initiates with Joshua's commendation and solemn dismissal of the Transjordanian tribes, who had faithfully fulfilled their obligation to assist their western counterparts in the conquest of Canaan. As these tribes journeyed back to their inheritance east of the Jordan, they erected a large, highly visible altar near the river. This act was immediately perceived by the tribes west of the Jordan as a grave act of rebellion and apostasy against the Lord, a direct challenge to the singular, divinely ordained central sanctuary at Shiloh, and a potential re-enactment of the disastrous sin of Peor. Driven by a zealous commitment to covenant fidelity, the western tribes swiftly mobilized for war at Shiloh. However, in a crucial display of wisdom and restraint, they first dispatched a high-level delegation, led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the high priest, to confront their brethren. The Transjordanian tribes eloquently articulated that the altar was not for illicit sacrifice but served as an "’ed" (witness), a perpetual monument to assure future generations that they, too, shared in the Lord's covenant and possessed a legitimate inheritance in Israel, preventing their spiritual or physical exclusion by the western tribes. Verse 33 then records the immediate, overwhelming, and positive response of the western tribes to this vital explanation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Jordan River, while a geographical feature, often carried significant symbolic weight, at times acting as a perceived divide within ancient Israel. The establishment of a central sanctuary—initially the Tabernacle at Shiloh, later the Temple in Jerusalem—was an absolute cornerstone of Israelite worship, national identity, and covenant adherence. This principle, deeply rooted in Deuteronomic law, aimed to prevent idolatry and maintain the nation's singular devotion to Yahweh. Consequently, any perceived deviation, such as the construction of an unauthorized altar, was met with extreme suspicion and could rightfully provoke a "holy war," a direct response to perceived treason against God. The pervasive fear of national division and apostasy was deeply ingrained in the Israelite consciousness, particularly after the challenging wilderness wanderings and the constant temptation posed by surrounding pagan cultures. The tribal system, while providing distinct territorial inheritances, simultaneously necessitated robust bonds of kinship and unwavering covenant loyalty to function effectively as a unified nation under God. The potential for internal strife, especially over matters of religious purity, represented a constant and grave threat, rendering the peaceful resolution achieved in Joshua 22 a monumental and divinely guided accomplishment.

* **Key Themes:** Joshua 22:33 powerfully encapsulates several profound themes that resonate throughout the book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. Central among these is the theme of **unity and covenant fidelity** within the people of God, underscoring the paramount importance of maintaining a singular, undivided devotion to Yahweh and actively avoiding internal schism. The narrative vividly highlights the **danger of misunderstanding and hasty judgment**, demonstrating how even assumptions rooted in fervent zeal for God can lead to catastrophic outcomes if not tempered by careful inquiry, patient listening, and compassionate communication. Conversely, the passage powerfully underscores the **transformative power of clear, honest, and humble communication** as an indispensable means of reconciliation and conflict resolution, effectively preventing bloodshed and preserving peace among brethren. Finally, the verse profoundly illustrates **God's providential hand** in preserving His chosen people and guiding them through potential pitfalls, leading them to bless Him for averting disaster and upholding their national integrity. This theme of divine faithfulness is echoed throughout [the conquest narratives](/joshua/1 "God's Charge to Joshua") and continues through the periods of the [Judges](/judges/1 "The Book of Judges") and the [Monarchy](/1_samuel/1 "The Books of Samuel"), consistently demonstrating the Lord's unwavering care for His people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Thing (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** The Hebrew word דָּבָר (_dâbâr_) is rich in meaning, encompassing "a word," "a matter," "a report," or "a thing." In this context, it refers specifically to the explanation or account provided by the Transjordanian tribes concerning the altar. This "thing" was not merely a physical object but the verbal communication, the truth spoken, that clarified their intentions and averted conflict. Its acceptance indicates that the western tribes found the explanation to be a complete and satisfactory account of the situation.
* **Pleased (Hebrew, _yâṭab'_):** The verb יָטַב (_yâṭab_) signifies "to be good, well, pleasing, agreeable," or "to be (made) right." Here, it conveys far more than simple relief; it indicates that the explanation offered by the Transjordanian tribes was not just accepted, but was found to be entirely satisfactory, morally right, and agreeable to the western tribes' understanding of covenant law. It implies a profound restoration of trust, a deep sense of approval, and a vindication of their brethren's fidelity to the covenant.
* **Blessed (Hebrew, _bârak'_):** The verb בָּרַךְ (_bârak_) fundamentally means "to kneel," and by implication, "to bless God (as an act of adoration)" or "to bless man (as a benefit)." In this verse, it describes an active, intentional act of worship and profound gratitude directed towards God. It is not a passive sigh of relief but a deliberate expression of thankfulness, acknowledging God's direct intervention and wisdom in guiding the situation to a peaceful resolution. It signifies that the tribes recognized God's sovereign hand in averting civil war and preserving the unity of His people.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the thing pleased the children of Israel;":** This initial clause refers to the comprehensive explanation provided by the Transjordanian tribes regarding the true, non-sacrificial purpose of the altar. The "thing" (דָּבָר, _dâbâr_) was the verbal report, the account of their sincere intentions. The western tribes, who had been on the brink of initiating a holy war, found this explanation utterly satisfactory and agreeable, indicating their complete acceptance of their brethren's fidelity and the immediate cessation of their deep suspicion and righteous anger.
* **"and the children of Israel blessed God,":** Overwhelmed with immense relief, profound gratitude, and a renewed sense of national unity, the western tribes responded with an act of corporate worship. They recognized that the peaceful resolution of such a grave misunderstanding and the avoidance of fratricidal conflict were not merely the result of human diplomacy but a clear demonstration of divine intervention and sovereign guidance. Their act of blessing God was a profound acknowledgment of His faithfulness in preserving His people and His wisdom in bringing truth to light, thereby averting a devastating civil war.
* **"and did not intend to go up against them in battle,":** This phrase explicitly states the immediate and direct consequence of the pleasing explanation and their corporate act of blessing God. The intention to wage war, which had been a serious, imminent, and fully prepared threat, was now completely and irrevocably abandoned. The military preparations ceased, the readiness for fratricidal conflict dissolved instantly, replaced by a profound sense of peace and restored fellowship.
* **"to destroy the land wherein the children of Reuben and Gad dwelt.":** This final clause powerfully underscores the severity and catastrophic potential of the conflict that was so narrowly averted. The western tribes had been prepared not merely for a skirmish or a limited engagement, but for a full-scale "destruction" (שָׁחַת, _shâchath_) of the land and its inhabitants, a "holy war" against those they had perceived as apostates. The peaceful resolution meant the preservation of life, the integrity of the land, and, most crucially, the unity of the entire nation of Israel, preventing an internal schism that could have had lasting, devastating consequences.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 22:33 functions as the climactic **Resolution** of the intense dramatic tension that has been meticulously built throughout the preceding verses of the chapter. The narrative skillfully moves from initial misunderstanding, suspicion, and the imminent threat of civil war to a profound sense of peace, reconciliation, and restored unity. There is a strong element of **Dramatic Irony** woven into the preceding narrative, as the reader is made aware of the Transjordanian tribes' innocent and pious intentions regarding the altar, while the western tribes are consumed by righteous indignation and a zealous desire for justice, based entirely on a false premise. Verse 33 then delivers the satisfying and pivotal reversal where the truth is finally revealed, leading to peace. The **Repetition** of the phrase "children of Israel" emphasizes the collective national body, highlighting that this profound peace and corporate blessing of God were a unified national experience, underscoring the solidarity of the entire twelve tribes. The entire episode serves as a powerful **Parable** or **Type** for the enduring importance of clear communication, the pursuit of truth, and the necessity of reconciliation within any community, especially one bound by sacred covenant.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse stands as a powerful testament to the invaluable worth of unity within God's people and the divine grace that actively preserves it. The immediate impulse of the western tribes was to wage holy war against perceived apostasy, demonstrating their fervent zeal for God's covenant and their fear of divine judgment. However, God, in His sovereign wisdom and providential care, allowed for a crucial process of inquiry, patient listening, and clear explanation, which ultimately revealed the truth and averted a catastrophic internal conflict. This highlights a vital theological principle: while zeal for God and His commands is commendable, it must always be tempered with wisdom, patience, humble inquiry, and a steadfast commitment to seeking truth and understanding before judgment or drastic action. The corporate blessing of God in this verse signifies a profound recognition of His sovereign hand in orchestrating this peaceful outcome, reminding us that true peace, reconciliation, and unity among His people are ultimately gifts from Him, not merely human achievements or diplomatic successes.

* [Psalm 133:1](/psalms/133-1 "The Goodness and Pleasantness of Unity")
* [Proverbs 18:13](/proverbs/18-13 "Hasty Judgment Without Hearing")
* [Ephesians 4:3](/ephesians/4-3 "Eager to Maintain the Unity of the Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 22:33 offers timeless and profound wisdom for navigating the complexities of relationships and resolving conflicts within the community of faith today. It serves as a potent reminder that appearances can be profoundly deceiving, and initial assumptions, even when seemingly motivated by righteous intentions or zeal for truth, can lead to destructive and regrettable outcomes. Before rushing to judgment, condemning others, or taking drastic action, we are called to prioritize clear, humble, and patient communication. Seeking to genuinely understand another's perspective, listening attentively to explanations, and generously extending the benefit of the doubt can prevent countless misunderstandings, avert unnecessary strife, and preserve precious unity within families, churches, and communities. When conflicts are resolved, especially those that seemed insurmountable or deeply divisive, our response should mirror that of the Israelites: profound gratitude and worship directed to God, acknowledging His sovereign hand in bringing about reconciliation and restoring peace. This verse powerfully encourages us to be active peacemakers, valuing the sacred bonds of fellowship and the unity of the Spirit over the fleeting satisfaction of being "right" or the destructive impulse to condemn.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What assumptions do I tend to make about others' motives or actions, particularly in times of disagreement or perceived offense?**
* **How often do I intentionally prioritize seeking understanding and engaging in clear, humble communication over immediate judgment or reactive responses in my relationships?**
* **In what tangible ways can I actively contribute to preserving unity, fostering peace, and promoting reconciliation within my family, church, or broader community?**
* **When conflicts are resolved, especially those that seemed deeply entrenched, do I remember to give heartfelt thanks to God for His intervention and the precious restoration of peace?**

### FAQ

**What was the "thing" that pleased the children of Israel?**

Answer: The "thing" (Hebrew: _dâbâr_, H1697) that so profoundly pleased the children of Israel was the comprehensive, truthful, and reassuring explanation provided by the Transjordanian tribes regarding the altar they had built. They clarified that the altar was not erected for illicit sacrifices or to establish a rival center of worship, which would have been an act of apostasy. Instead, it was intended as a "witness" (Hebrew: _'ed_) – a permanent, visible monument to affirm their shared identity, their full participation in the covenant relationship with the Lord God of Israel, and their rightful inheritance among God's people. This explanation was crucial to ensure that their descendants would not be disinherited or excluded from the covenant community by the western tribes. This detailed and satisfactory explanation completely alleviated the western tribes' fears of apostasy and rebellion, restoring trust, fellowship, and national unity, as further elaborated in [Joshua 22:21-29](/joshua/22-21 "The Explanation of the Transjordanian Tribes").

**Why was war almost declared over the altar?**

Answer: War was almost declared because the western tribes fundamentally misinterpreted the building of the altar by the Transjordanian tribes as a grave act of apostasy and rebellion against the Lord. According to the foundational Deuteronomic law, all legitimate sacrifices and worship were to be offered at the single, central sanctuary designated by God (at this time, the Tabernacle at Shiloh). Building any other altar was viewed as a direct and egregious violation of this divine command, a turning away from the Lord, and a potential re-enactment of past national sins, such as the disastrous incident at Peor ([Numbers 25:1-9](/numbers/25-1 "The Sin at Peor")). The western tribes, driven by an intense zeal for the purity of their worship and the unity of the nation under God, perceived this act as an existential threat to their covenant relationship with God, believing it would inevitably bring divine wrath upon the entire nation ([Joshua 22:18](/joshua/22-18 "The Fear of God's Wrath and Its Consequences")). Their readiness for war stemmed from a fervent desire to purge perceived evil from their midst and to protect the integrity of their monotheistic faith and national identity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 22:33, with its dramatic resolution of potential civil war and the restoration of unity among God's people, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate work of reconciliation accomplished in and through Jesus Christ. The deep division and imminent conflict between the Israelite tribes, born of misunderstanding, suspicion, and perceived spiritual deviation, mirrors the profound chasm created by sin: first, between humanity and a holy God, and second, between different groups of humanity. Just as the truth about the altar's purpose brought peace and unity to a fractured Israel, so too does the truth of the gospel, centered on the person and work of Christ, bring ultimate reconciliation. Christ, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, decisively breaks down all dividing walls of hostility, whether they be between Jew and Gentile ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Christ Our Peace - Breaking Down the Wall of Hostility")), or between any individuals or groups alienated by sin, misunderstanding, or cultural barriers. He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, creating a new humanity in Himself, thereby establishing peace. The "blessing God" in Joshua 22:33 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the Church's worship of God for the perfect peace, eternal unity, and spiritual reconciliation secured through the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), who takes away the sin of the world and gathers all His redeemed people into one unified body, the body of Christ ([1 Corinthians 12:13](/1-corinthians/12-13 "One Spirit, One Body in Christ")). The averted physical destruction in Joshua points to the eternal salvation and preservation from spiritual destruction offered to all who are found in Christ, who is our ultimate refuge and source of enduring peace.

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

1 Chronicles 29:20

And David said to all the congregation, Now bless the LORD your God. And all the congregation blessed the LORD God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the LORD, and the king.

Luke 2:28

Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

Daniel 2:19

Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.

Joshua 22:30

¶ And when Phinehas the priest, and the princes of the congregation and heads of the thousands of Israel which [were] with him, heard the words that the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the children of Manasseh spake, it pleased them.

1 Samuel 25:32

¶ And David said to Abigail, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me:

1 Samuel 25:33

And blessed [be] thy advice, and blessed [be] thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to [shed] blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand.

Ephesians 1:3

¶ Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ: