Joshua 22:9

KJV

And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh, which [is] in the land of Canaan, to go unto the country of Gilead, to the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed, according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of Reuben {H7205} and the children {H1121} of Gad {H1410} and the half {H2677} tribe {H7626} of Manasseh {H4519} returned {H7725}, and departed {H3212} from the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} out of Shiloh {H7887}, which is in the land {H776} of Canaan {H3667}, to go {H3212} unto the country {H776} of Gilead {H1568}, to the land {H776} of their possession {H272}, whereof they were possessed {H270}, according to the word {H6310} of the LORD {H3068} by the hand {H3027} of Moses {H4872}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So the descendants of Re'uven, the descendants of Gad and the half-tribe of M'nasheh returned; they left the people of Isra'el in Shiloh, in the land of Kena'an, to go to the land of Gil'ad, to the land they were to possess and which they already did possess - according to the order of ADONAI through Moshe.

Berean Standard Bible

So the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh left the Israelites at Shiloh in the land of Canaan to return to their own land of Gilead, which they had acquired according to the command of the LORD through Moses.

American Standard Version

And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh, which is in the land of Canaan, to go unto the land of Gilead, to the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed, according to the commandment of Jehovah by Moses.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 22:9 marks the significant moment when the Transjordanian tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—concluded their faithful military service alongside the other Israelite tribes in Canaan. Having assisted in the conquest, they departed from Shiloh, the central spiritual hub where the Tabernacle was located, to return to their divinely allotted inheritance in the land of Gilead, east of the Jordan River. This return signified the fulfillment of a long-standing promise delivered through Moses, marking a crucial transition in Israel's establishment within the Promised Land.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 22:9 is strategically placed at a pivotal point in the book of Joshua, immediately following Joshua's commendation and formal dismissal of the Transjordanian tribes in [Joshua 22:1-8](/joshua/22-1-8 "Joshua 22:1-8 - Joshua's Farewell to the Transjordanian Tribes"). These preceding verses underscore the tribes' unwavering faithfulness to their oath made to Moses and Joshua, highlighting their indispensable role in the unified conquest of Canaan. The verse itself serves as the direct prelude to the dramatic and significant narrative of the altar built by the Jordan, which sparks a major inter-tribal conflict and subsequent resolution, detailed in [Joshua 22:10-34](/joshua/22-10-34 "Joshua 22:10-34 - The Altar of Witness Controversy"). This narrative sequence masterfully develops themes of national unity, the potential for misunderstanding arising from geographical separation, and the paramount importance of maintaining covenant fidelity among all the tribes of Israel as they transition from a nomadic, conquering force to a settled nation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The return of the Transjordanian tribes to their inheritance fulfills a specific covenant agreement established decades earlier with Moses, as comprehensively recorded in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Settlement of the Transjordanian Tribes"). These tribes, possessing extensive livestock, had requested and were granted land east of the Jordan on the explicit condition that their fighting men would lead the charge across the Jordan and assist the other tribes in securing the land of Canaan. Their departure from Shiloh is deeply significant, as Shiloh had been established as the central sanctuary where the Tabernacle was erected ([Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - The Tabernacle at Shiloh")) and where the land west of the Jordan was systematically distributed by lot. Their journey back to Gilead, a region renowned for its rich pasturelands, symbolizes the completion of their national duty and their re-establishment within their distinct, yet integral, ancestral territories. This geographical distinction, while divinely sanctioned, would inherently present challenges to national cohesion, as vividly illustrated in the subsequent narrative.

* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly encapsulates several foundational themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader Deuteronomistic history. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the **fulfillment of divine promise and human faithfulness**. The tribes' return to their inheritance, explicitly stated as being "according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses," emphatically underscores God's unwavering commitment to His covenant promises while simultaneously affirming the tribes' steadfast obedience to their solemn oath. Secondly, the verse highlights **tribal identity and territorial possession**. The emphatic repetition of "the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed," reinforces the concept of inherited land as a foundational element of Israelite identity, a tangible manifestation of God's provision and blessing. Finally, the narrative of their departure from Shiloh and return to Gilead implicitly introduces the crucial theme of **unity amidst geographical distinction**. This inherent tension would be immediately tested in the subsequent account of the altar, demonstrating the ongoing necessity for clear communication, shared understanding, and a common commitment to Yahweh to maintain the cohesion and spiritual integrity of the twelve tribes as one people of God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Shiloh (Hebrew, _Shîylôh'_):** As identified by the Strong's data, Shiloh is a specific place located in Palestine. In the context of Joshua 22:9, it represents the central gathering point for Israel during the conquest and land distribution, where the Tabernacle was located, marking it as the spiritual and administrative hub from which the Transjordanian tribes departed, signifying the completion of their unified military service.
* **Gilead (Hebrew, _Gilʻâd'_):** The Strong's data identifies Gilead as a region situated east of the Jordan. For the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, this region was their divinely appointed inheritance, signifying their return to their distinct territorial possession after fulfilling their military obligations and transitioning to settled life.
* **Possession (Hebrew, _ʼăchuzzâh'_):** From the Strong's data, this term refers to "something seized, i.e., a possession, especially of land." In this verse, its repeated use underscores the permanent, legally secured, and divinely granted nature of the land east of the Jordan as a legitimate and enduring inheritance for the Transjordanian tribes, emphasizing God's provision.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh returned, and departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh":** This opening clause precisely identifies the specific tribes involved in this momentous movement and their point of origin. Their "return" signifies the successful completion of their arduous military duty and a re-orientation towards their own homes and families. Their departure "from the children of Israel" and specifically "out of Shiloh" highlights a physical separation from the main body of the Israelite nation and from its central spiritual sanctuary, thereby setting the stage for potential misunderstandings and challenges arising from geographical distance.
* **"which [is] in the land of Canaan, to go unto the country of Gilead, to the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed":** This segment explicitly details their destination and emphatically underscores the nature of their inheritance. Shiloh is clearly located "in the land of Canaan" (west of the Jordan), establishing a stark geographical contrast with "the country of Gilead" (east of the Jordan). The powerful repetition of "possession" ("the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed") serves as a potent rhetorical device, reinforcing the divine legitimacy and enduring nature of their inherited territory, emphasizing that this land was not merely occupied but rightfully and permanently owned through God's sovereign grant.
* **"according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses":** This concluding phrase provides the ultimate theological justification and divine authority for the entire arrangement. It unequivocally affirms that their settlement in Gilead, their participation in the conquest, and their eventual return were all integral parts of God's meticulously orchestrated sovereign plan, communicated through His chosen mediator, Moses. This underscores the profound divine providence guiding every aspect of Israel's history and the precise fulfillment of ancient prophecies and covenant stipulations.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 22:9 employs several significant literary devices to convey its profound meaning. **Repetition** is prominently featured in the phrase "the land of their possession, whereof they were possessed," which serves to powerfully **emphasize** the legitimacy, permanence, and divine sanction of the Transjordanian tribes' inheritance. This reiteration reinforces the idea that their claim to the land was not merely a human arrangement but divinely ordained and secured. A clear **Geographical Contrast** is established between "Shiloh... in the land of Canaan" and "the country of Gilead," which vividly highlights the physical separation of these tribes from the main body of Israel and subtly **foreshadows** the geographical and cultural distinctions that would immediately lead to the tension and conflict concerning the altar in the subsequent verses. This departure also creates a sense of **Anticipation**, as the reader, aware of the forthcoming narrative, understands that this seemingly peaceful return will precipitate a significant challenge to national unity. Finally, the concluding phrase, "according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses," functions as a powerful **Affirmation of Divine Authority** and **Covenant Fulfillment**, anchoring all human actions within God's overarching and meticulously executed plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 22:9 stands as a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and the paramount importance of human obedience to covenant obligations. The orderly return of the Transjordanian tribes, meticulously described as being "according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses," unequivocally underscores the divine hand in Israel's intricate settlement and the meticulous nature of God's providence. It highlights that the entire enterprise of the conquest and land distribution was not a mere human endeavor but was divinely orchestrated, ensuring that each tribe received its rightful and specific inheritance. This pivotal moment signifies the crucial transition from a unified military campaign to the establishment of Israel as a settled nation, emphasizing the vital importance of both corporate unity and individual tribal stewardship within God's overarching and redemptive plan for His chosen people.

* [Numbers 32:16-22](/numbers/32-16-22 "Numbers 32:16-22 - The Agreement for Transjordanian Settlement")
* [Deuteronomy 3:18-20](/deuteronomy/3-18-20 "Deuteronomy 3:18-20 - Moses' Charge to the Eastern Tribes")
* [Joshua 1:12-18](/joshua/1-12-18 "Joshua 1:12-18 - Joshua's Reminder and the Tribes' Affirmation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 22:9 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today, primarily centered on the virtues of faithfulness, the absolute reliability of God's promises, and the delicate yet crucial balance of unity within diversity. Just as the Transjordanian tribes diligently fulfilled their arduous commitment to their brethren, enduring years of separation and conflict, we too are called to be people of unwavering integrity, honoring our word and faithfully fulfilling our responsibilities, whether in our families, our local communities, or in our dedicated service to God. Their journey home, meticulously guided by a divine word given through Moses, serves as a powerful reminder that God's plans are meticulously unfolded in His perfect timing, and His promises are always true, providing an unshakable foundation for our trust and hope in every circumstance. Furthermore, this verse subtly introduces the inherent challenge of maintaining unity across geographical, cultural, and even theological distinctions within the body of Christ. It calls us to intentional communication, empathetic mutual understanding, and a shared, unwavering commitment to the larger body of Christ, ensuring that our individual identities, unique callings, and distinct ministries contribute harmoniously to, rather than detract from, the collective mission and testimony of God's people in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life are you currently called to fulfill a long-standing commitment, whether to God, your family, or your community?**
* **How does the unwavering faithfulness of God in bringing Israel to their promised land encourage you in areas where you are patiently waiting on His promises to unfold in your own life?**
* **Considering the potential for misunderstanding seen in the Transjordanian tribes' return, how can we more effectively foster unity, understanding, and clear communication within our diverse church communities today?**
* **What does it truly mean to live "according to the word of the LORD" in your daily decisions, your long-term plans, and your overall life trajectory?**

### FAQ
**Why were these tribes settled east of the Jordan River, distinct from the main body of Israel in Canaan?**

Answer: The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh requested this territory from Moses because it was exceptionally well-suited for their large herds of livestock ([Numbers 32:1-5](/numbers/32-1-5 "Numbers 32:1-5 - The Tribes' Request for Gilead")). Moses initially expressed hesitation, fearing it would discourage the other tribes from entering Canaan, but he ultimately agreed on the condition that their fighting men would cross the Jordan first and assist the other tribes in conquering the land of Canaan ([Numbers 32:16-22](/numbers/32-16-22 "Numbers 32:16-22 - Moses' Condition for Settlement")). This unique arrangement was part of God's sovereign plan for the distribution of the land, acknowledging their specific needs while ensuring their full participation in the national effort of conquest and settlement.

**What was the significance of Shiloh in this verse, and why was their departure from it noteworthy?**

Answer: Shiloh served as the primary spiritual and administrative center for Israel during the period of the Judges, following the initial conquest. It was the sacred place where the Tabernacle, the physical manifestation of God's presence among His people, was set up ([Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - The Tabernacle at Shiloh")) and where the remaining land in Canaan was apportioned by lot to the other tribes. Their departure from Shiloh was profoundly noteworthy because it marked a physical separation from the central place of worship and national unity. It symbolized the completion of their shared military duty and the transition to their individual tribal responsibilities and distinct geographical inheritance, raising crucial questions about how they would maintain their spiritual and national connection to the greater Israelite community and its central worship.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 22:9, with its profound emphasis on the fulfillment of a divine promise and the return to an inherited possession, finds its ultimate and most glorious Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Transjordanian tribes entered their promised land "according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses," so too does Christ, the true and greater Joshua, lead His people not merely into a physical land, but into the spiritual rest and eternal inheritance promised to all who believe in Him ([Hebrews 4:8-10](/hebrews/4-8-10 "Hebrews 4:8-10 - The True Rest in Christ")). Jesus is the faithful One who perfectly fulfills every single promise of God, for "all the promises of God find their Yes in him" ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")), thereby securing for us a "possession" that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven ([1 Peter 1:4](/1_peter/1-4 "1 Peter 1:4 - An Inheritance Imperishable")). Our ultimate "Gilead" is not merely a geographical region, but the "heavenly country" ([Hebrews 11:16](/hebrews/11-16 "Hebrews 11:16 - Longing for a Heavenly Country")) to which Christ, our glorious forerunner, has already ascended, entering the inner sanctuary on our behalf ([Hebrews 6:19-20](/hebrews/6-19-20 "Hebrews 6:19-20 - Christ Our Forerunner")). Through His perfect sacrifice on the cross, He has secured our true "rest" and "possession," not by military conquest of a physical land, but by triumphing over sin and death, establishing a New Covenant that brings us into full and eternal communion with God, a reality that infinitely surpasses the temporary and typological arrangements of the Old Covenant.

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 32:26

Our little ones, our wives, our flocks, and all our cattle, shall be there in the cities of Gilead:

Numbers 32:29

And Moses said unto them, If the children of Gad and the children of Reuben will pass with you over Jordan, every man armed to battle, before the LORD, and the land shall be subdued before you; then ye shall give them the land of Gilead for a possession:

Numbers 32:1

¶ Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of Gilead, that, behold, the place [was] a place for cattle;

Psalms 60:7

Gilead [is] mine, and Manasseh [is] mine; Ephraim also [is] the strength of mine head; Judah [is] my lawgiver;

Joshua 13:31

And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, [were pertaining] unto the children of Machir the son of Manasseh, [even] to the one half of the children of Machir by their families.

Joshua 13:25

And their coast was Jazer, and all the cities of Gilead, and half the land of the children of Ammon, unto Aroer that [is] before Rabbah;

Joshua 13:11

And Gilead, and the border of the Geshurites and Maachathites, and all mount Hermon, and all Bashan unto Salcah;