Topical Bible: Uncharitableness: The Tribes West of the Jordan River Toward the Two and a Half Tribes

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◄ Uncharitableness: The Tribes West of the Jordan River Toward the Two and a Half Tribes ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Uncharitableness, or the lack of love and generosity towards others, is a theme that emerges in various biblical narratives. One significant instance of this is found in the interactions between the tribes west of the Jordan River and the two and a half tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—who settled east of the Jordan.

Background Context

After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh requested to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This request was granted by Moses, provided that these tribes would first assist the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan (Numbers 32:20-22). Once the land was subdued, they returned to their allotted territories east of the Jordan.

The Altar of Witness

A significant event that highlights the theme of uncharitableness occurred when the two and a half tribes built a large altar by the Jordan River. This action was misunderstood by the western tribes, who perceived it as an act of rebellion against the LORD. The western tribes gathered at Shiloh to go to war against their eastern brethren (Joshua 22:10-12).

The western tribes' immediate assumption of rebellion and their readiness to wage war without first seeking understanding exemplifies a lack of charity. Their actions were based on suspicion and a failure to communicate, rather than love and unity.

Resolution Through Dialogue

Fortunately, before any conflict ensued, a delegation led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, was sent to inquire about the intentions behind the altar. The eastern tribes explained that the altar was not for sacrifices but was intended as a witness between them and the western tribes, to ensure future generations would remember their shared faith and heritage (Joshua 22:21-29).

Upon hearing this explanation, the western tribes were relieved and praised God, recognizing the altar as a symbol of unity rather than division (Joshua 22:30-34). This resolution underscores the importance of seeking understanding and maintaining unity among God's people.

Lessons on Uncharitableness

This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of uncharitableness, particularly in the form of hasty judgments and assumptions. The initial reaction of the western tribes highlights how a lack of charity can lead to division and conflict within the community of believers. It emphasizes the need for open communication, understanding, and a charitable spirit to preserve unity and peace.

The account of the altar by the Jordan River reminds believers of the importance of approaching situations with a heart of love and a desire for reconciliation, reflecting the unity that God desires among His people.

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Numbers 32:1-33
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;
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Joshua 22:11-31
And the children of Israel heard say, Behold, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh have built an altar over against the land of Canaan, in the borders of Jordan, at the passage of the children of Israel.
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