Joshua 22:32

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and the princes, returned from the children of Reuben, and from the children of Gad, out of the land of Gilead, unto the land of Canaan, to the children of Israel, and brought them word again.

And Phinehas {H6372} the son {H1121} of Eleazar {H499} the priest {H3548}, and the princes {H5387}, returned {H7725} from the children {H1121} of Reuben {H7205}, and from the children {H1121} of Gad {H1410}, out of the land {H776} of Gilead {H1568}, unto the land {H776} of Canaan {H3667}, to the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, and brought {H7725} them word {H1697} again {H7725}.

So Pinchas the son of El'azar the cohen and the leaders returned from the descendants of Re'uven and Gad, from the land of Gil'ad to the land of Kena'an and the people of Isra'el, bringing word back to them.

Then Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest, together with the other leaders, returned to the Israelites in the land of Canaan and brought back a report regarding the Reubenites and Gadites in the land of Gilead.

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, and the princes, returned from the children of Reuben, and from the children of Gad, out of the land of Gilead, unto the land of Canaan, to the children of Israel, and brought them word again.

Commentary

Joshua 22:32 marks a pivotal moment in the resolution of a significant misunderstanding between the Transjordanian tribes and the rest of Israel. This verse confirms the successful return of Phinehas and the delegation of princes from the land of Gilead, bringing back the reassuring news that averted a potential civil war.

Context

The preceding verses in Joshua chapter 22 detail a crisis that emerged after the Transjordanian tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh) built a large, prominent altar near the Jordan River as they returned to their inheritance. The other Israelite tribes, residing in Canaan, immediately assumed this was an act of rebellion against God, a move towards idolatry, and a violation of the covenant, similar to the apostasy at Baal-peor. Filled with righteous indignation and fearing God's wrath upon all Israel, they prepared for war.

However, before resorting to conflict, they wisely sent a delegation led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, along with ten princes, one from each of the remaining tribes, to confront the Transjordanian tribes. The delegation's investigation revealed that the altar was not for sacrifice but was intended as a memorial, a "witness" (Hebrew: 'ed), ensuring that future generations from their side of the Jordan would not be cut off from worshipping the Lord at the tabernacle in Shiloh. This verse signifies the successful conclusion of that diplomatic mission, bringing relief and reaffirming the unity of God's people.

Key Themes

  • Unity and Reconciliation: The primary theme is the preservation of Israel's unity. The swift and peaceful resolution of the altar dispute prevented a devastating internal conflict, demonstrating the importance of maintaining fellowship among God's people. This outcome brought great relief and joy, as seen in Joshua 22:33.
  • Communication and Understanding: The narrative powerfully illustrates the danger of misunderstanding and the vital role of open communication. Instead of rushing to judgment and war, the Israelites sought clarification, which allowed for the truth to be revealed and peace to be restored.
  • Zeal for God's Law: The initial reaction of the tribes in Canaan, though based on a misunderstanding, stemmed from a genuine zeal for God's commandments and a deep concern for the purity of worship. They feared any deviation from the covenant that could bring divine judgment upon the entire nation.
  • Wise Leadership: Phinehas, who had previously demonstrated his zeal for God in Numbers 25:7-8, proved to be an effective mediator. His priestly authority and the presence of the tribal princes lent weight to the delegation, facilitating a respectful and productive dialogue.

Linguistic Insights

The term "princes" (Hebrew: nesi'im) refers to the heads or leaders of the tribes, indicating that this was an official and authoritative delegation. Their presence alongside Phinehas underscored the seriousness of the mission and the collective concern of all the tribes in Canaan. The phrase "brought them word again" simply means they reported back the findings and the positive outcome of their mission.

Practical Application

Joshua 22:32 offers timeless lessons for believers and communities today:

  • Assume the Best, Then Investigate: Before drawing conclusions or making accusations, especially regarding spiritual matters, it is crucial to seek understanding and clarify intentions.
  • The Power of Dialogue: Many conflicts can be resolved through patient, respectful communication rather than immediate confrontation or condemnation.
  • Prioritize Unity: Believers are called to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3). Differences should be approached with a desire for reconciliation rather than division.
  • Importance of Righteous Leadership: Leaders play a critical role in mediating disputes, ensuring truth prevails, and guiding their communities towards harmony and faithfulness.

This verse, though brief, marks the successful conclusion of a potentially catastrophic event, highlighting God's faithfulness in guiding His people through misunderstanding to a place of renewed unity and peace.

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Cross-References

  • Proverbs 25:13 (2 votes)

    ¶ As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, [so is] a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters.

  • Joshua 22:12 (2 votes)

    And when the children of Israel heard [of it], the whole congregation of the children of Israel gathered themselves together at Shiloh, to go up to war against them.

  • Joshua 22:14 (2 votes)

    And with him ten princes, of each chief house a prince throughout all the tribes of Israel; and each one [was] an head of the house of their fathers among the thousands of Israel.