Joshua 22:8

KJV

And he spake unto them, saying, Return with much riches unto your tents, and with very much cattle, with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment: divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren.

KJV (with Strong's)

And he spake {H559} unto them, saying {H559}, Return {H7725} with much {H7227} riches {H5233} unto your tents {H168}, and with very {H3966} much {H7227} cattle {H4735}, with silver {H3701}, and with gold {H2091}, and with brass {H5178}, and with iron {H1270}, and with very {H3966} much {H7235} raiment {H8008}: divide {H2505} the spoil {H7998} of your enemies {H341} with your brethren {H251}.

Complete Jewish Bible

saying, "Return with great riches to your tents - with very much livestock, with silver, gold, bronze, iron and with great quantities of clothing; share the spoil of your enemies with your kinsmen."

Berean Standard Bible

saying, “Return to your homes with your great wealth, with immense herds of livestock, with silver, gold, bronze, iron, and very many clothes. Divide with your brothers the spoil of your enemies.”

American Standard Version

and spake unto them, saying, Return with much wealth unto your tents, and with very much cattle, with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment: divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 22:8 marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as Joshua formally dismisses the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. After years of unwavering commitment and faithful service in the conquest of Canaan alongside their brethren, these eastern tribes are sent back to their inheritance across the Jordan River. Joshua's address not only commends their loyalty but also bestows upon them immense material wealth—the spoils of war—as a tangible reward for their obedience and perseverance. Crucially, the verse concludes with a direct command to divide these abundant riches with their brethren, underscoring the vital principles of communal unity, shared blessing, and equitable distribution within the covenant community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a significant juncture in the book of Joshua, following the detailed accounts of the land's conquest (Joshua 6-12) and its subsequent division among the tribes (Joshua 13-21). Specifically, it immediately precedes the narrative of the controversial altar built by the eastern tribes (Joshua 22:9-34), which initially causes alarm among the western tribes but ultimately reinforces the unity of Israel. Joshua's address in [Joshua 22:1-8](/joshua/22-1 "Joshua 22:1-8 - Joshua's Charge to the Eastern Tribes") serves as a formal discharge and commendation, fulfilling the long-standing commitment made by these tribes to Moses in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Request of Reuben and Gad") and reaffirmed to Joshua in [Joshua 1:12-18](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1:12-18 - Joshua's Charge to the Eastern Tribes"). It signifies the successful completion of the primary military phase of the conquest and the transition to the settlement and administration of the land.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For approximately seven years, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh had left their families and their designated inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River to fight alongside their Israelite brethren in the conquest of Canaan. This was a fulfillment of a solemn oath made to Moses, promising to assist in securing the land for all tribes before settling their own territories. Ancient Near Eastern warfare often involved the taking of "spoil" or "booty" from defeated enemies, which was considered a legitimate reward for military victory and a sign of divine favor. The enumeration of "cattle, silver, gold, brass, iron, and raiment" reflects the typical forms of wealth acquired through conquest. The emphasis on "tents" signifies their return to their homes and settled domestic life, while the term "brethren" highlights the deep familial and covenantal bonds that were central to Israelite society, transcending geographical separation.

* **Key Themes:** Joshua 22:8 powerfully encapsulates several core themes prevalent throughout the book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. First, it exemplifies the theme of **faithfulness rewarded**. The eastern tribes' unwavering obedience and perseverance in fulfilling their commitment, even through years of arduous warfare, are explicitly acknowledged and abundantly blessed by God through the spoils of war. Second, the verse underscores **divine provision** and **sovereignty**. The immense wealth acquired is not merely the result of human military prowess but is ultimately a testament to God's hand in granting victory and providing for His people, echoing the principle found in [Deuteronomy 8:18](/deuteronomy/8-18 "Deuteronomy 8:18 - God Gives Power to Get Wealth"). Third, and perhaps most significantly, the command to "divide the spoil... with your brethren" emphasizes the crucial theme of **communal responsibility** and **unity**. It teaches that blessings, especially those derived from collective effort and divine favor, are meant to be shared, fostering solidarity and preventing selfish accumulation within the covenant community. This principle of sharing resources and blessings for the common good is a recurring motif in Israel's history, foreshadowing the communal life of the early church described in [Acts 2:44-45](/acts/2-44 "Acts 2:44-45 - The Fellowship of the Believers").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Spoil (Hebrew, _shalal'_):** This term refers to plunder, booty, or goods taken from a defeated enemy in war. Its repeated mention and the extensive list of items ("much riches," "very much cattle," "silver," "gold," "brass," "iron," "very much raiment") emphasize the immense quantity and value of the material blessings bestowed upon the eastern tribes. This was not merely sustenance but significant wealth, indicative of God's abundant provision and the scale of their victories.
* **Brethren (Hebrew, _achim'_):** Meaning "brothers" or "kinsmen," this word highlights the deep familial and communal bond that united all the tribes of Israel, regardless of their geographical location. Joshua's command to share the spoil with their "brethren" reinforces the idea that despite their separate inheritance across the Jordan, they remained an integral part of the unified nation of Israel, bound by covenant and shared identity. This term underscores the importance of solidarity and mutual care within the covenant community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he spake unto them, saying, Return with much riches unto your tents":** This opening clause establishes Joshua's authoritative voice as the leader of Israel, formally dismissing the eastern tribes. The phrase "Return with much riches unto your tents" signifies not only the end of their military campaign and their journey home but also the tangible reward for their faithfulness. "Tents" here is a metonymy for their homes, families, and settled inheritance on the east side of the Jordan, representing a return to peace and domestic life after years of war.
* **"and with very much cattle, with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment":** This detailed enumeration serves to emphasize the extraordinary abundance of the spoil. The repetition of "very much" underscores the sheer quantity of the wealth, which included livestock, precious metals, and valuable clothing. This list highlights the comprehensive nature of the divine blessing and the material prosperity that resulted from their successful military endeavors, all attributed to God's favor.
* **"divide the spoil of your enemies with your brethren":** This is the crucial imperative of the verse. It is not merely a suggestion but a command, emphasizing the communal aspect of their blessings. The spoil, though acquired by their hands, was ultimately a gift from God through collective effort. Therefore, it was to be shared, ensuring that the benefits of the conquest were distributed throughout their families and within their tribal communities. This command reinforces the principles of equity, generosity, and the maintenance of unity among all the tribes of Israel.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 22:8 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The most prominent is **Enumeration**, where a detailed list of the spoils ("cattle, silver, gold, brass, iron, and raiment") is provided. This technique serves to emphasize the vast quantity and diverse nature of the wealth, underscoring the immense blessing and provision from God. Coupled with this is **Repetition**, particularly the use of intensifiers like "much riches," "very much cattle," and "very much raiment," which further magnifies the sense of abundance and divine generosity. The passage also utilizes **Direct Address** and **Imperative Mood** ("Return," "divide"), highlighting Joshua's authoritative leadership and the non-negotiable nature of his commands. This direct, personal charge from Joshua lends gravity and significance to the dismissal and the directive to share. Finally, **Metonymy** is present in the use of "tents" to represent their homes and settled lives, providing a concise and evocative image of their desired destination and peace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 22:8 stands as a powerful testament to the principles of divine faithfulness, communal responsibility, and the nature of blessings within God's covenant. It teaches that obedience and perseverance in the Lord's service are honored, and that the material and spiritual victories granted by God are often intended not for individual hoarding but for the enrichment and strengthening of the entire community. The immense spoil symbolizes God's abundant provision and His fulfillment of promises to His people. The command to share highlights a foundational truth: while God blesses individuals, His ultimate design is for those blessings to flow through them to others, fostering unity, equity, and mutual support within the body of believers. This act of sharing reinforces the idea that all resources ultimately belong to God and are to be stewarded for His purposes and the good of His people.

* [Deuteronomy 8:18](/deuteronomy/8-18 "God Gives Power to Get Wealth")
* [Proverbs 3:9-10](/proverbs/3-9 "Honor the Lord with your wealth")
* [Acts 2:44-45](/acts/2-44 "The Early Church Shared All Things")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 22:8 provides profound insights for contemporary believers. It challenges us to consider our own faithfulness to the commitments we make before God, whether in our personal walk, our family life, or our service within the church. The eastern tribes endured years of arduous warfare, demonstrating perseverance in their mission. This calls us to cultivate endurance in our spiritual journeys, trusting that God honors sustained obedience. Furthermore, the command to "divide the spoil" is a timeless reminder of the call to generosity and communal stewardship. Our blessings—be they material wealth, spiritual gifts, talents, or opportunities—are not solely for our personal benefit. They are often the result of God's favor and collective effort, and we are called to share them with our "brethren" in the faith and beyond. This fosters unity, alleviates need, and reflects the generous heart of our Heavenly Father, who gives us all things richly to enjoy and to share. It prompts us to ask: How can I use the "spoils" God has entrusted to me to bless and build up the community around me?

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I being called to demonstrate greater faithfulness and perseverance, even when the task is long or difficult?**
* **What "riches" or blessings (material, spiritual, relational) has God entrusted to me, and how am I currently stewarding them?**
* **How can I more intentionally "divide the spoil" of my blessings with my "brethren" in the church and in my wider community, fostering unity and meeting needs?**
* **How does recognizing God as the ultimate source of all my "spoils" impact my perspective on generosity and stewardship?**

### FAQ

**Why did these tribes have to fight first before settling their own land?**

Answer: The eastern tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh) had requested and received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River from Moses, as detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Request for Land East of Jordan"). However, they made a solemn vow to Moses and later reaffirmed it to Joshua (see [Joshua 1:12-18](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1:12-18 - Joshua's Charge to the Eastern Tribes")) that their armed men would cross the Jordan first and fight alongside their brethren until the entire land of Canaan was conquered and divided. This commitment was crucial for maintaining the unity of the twelve tribes and ensuring shared responsibility for the arduous task of conquest. Their participation demonstrated their solidarity and prevented a premature division of the nation before the common mission was complete.

**What is the significance of "tents" in this verse?**

Answer: In ancient Israelite culture, "tents" (or "habitations") often served as a symbol for one's home, family, and settled domestic life, particularly in the context of their nomadic past and their transition into a settled agricultural society. When Joshua commands them to "Return... unto your tents," it signifies the successful completion of their military campaign and their long-awaited return to their families, their homes, and their designated inheritance on the east side of the Jordan. It marks a transition from the rigors of war to the peace and security of their own land and households.

**Was it common or expected to share spoils of war in ancient Israel?**

Answer: Yes, within Israel, the distribution of war spoils was often regulated and expected, particularly among those who participated in the fighting and even those who remained behind (e.g., [Numbers 31:27](/numbers/31-27 "Numbers 31:27 - Division of Spoils")). Joshua's command in [Joshua 22:8](/joshua/22-8 "Joshua 22:8 - Joshua's Dismissal of the Eastern Tribes") specifically reinforces this principle, emphasizing the unity of the entire Israelite nation. Even though the eastern tribes had fought valiantly, the spoils were ultimately a blessing from God through the collective effort of Israel. The directive to "divide the spoil... with your brethren" underscored the communal bonds and the principle that blessings from God's hand should be shared to foster unity and mutual support among the covenant people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 22:8, while rooted in the historical context of Israel's conquest, beautifully foreshadows the greater spiritual realities found in Christ. Joshua, as a type of Christ, leads his people into their promised inheritance and blesses them abundantly. Just as the eastern tribes received immense material "spoils" for their faithfulness in battle, believers in Christ are led by the ultimate Joshua into a spiritual inheritance far richer than any earthly treasure. Through Christ's decisive victory over sin and death on the cross, we are given access to "every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ" as described in [Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ"). The "riches" we receive are not silver and gold, but the immeasurable riches of God's grace ([Ephesians 2:7](/ephesians/2-7 "Ephesians 2:7 - Riches of God's Grace")), the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life. Furthermore, Joshua's command to "divide the spoil... with your brethren" finds its ultimate fulfillment in the communal life of the Church. The spiritual gifts and blessings bestowed upon individual believers are not for self-enrichment but are to be shared and ministered to the body of Christ for the common good and the building up of the saints, as articulated in [1 Corinthians 12:7](/1_corinthians/12-7 "1 Corinthians 12:7 - Manifestation of the Spirit for the Common Good"). Christ's sacrifice is the ultimate source of all our true spiritual wealth, enabling us to return to our true "tents"—our eternal home with God—rich in His grace and empowered to share His love and truth with our spiritual brethren.

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

Numbers 31:27

And divide the prey into two parts; between them that took the war upon them, who went out to battle, and between all the congregation:

Deuteronomy 8:17

And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of [mine] hand hath gotten me this wealth.

Deuteronomy 8:18

But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for [it is] he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as [it is] this day.

Deuteronomy 8:9

A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any [thing] in it; a land whose stones [are] iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass.

Deuteronomy 8:14

Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage;

Proverbs 3:16

Length of days [is] in her right hand; [and] in her left hand riches and honour.

1 Samuel 30:24

For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part [is] that goeth down to the battle, so [shall] his part [be] that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.