Joshua 1:12
And to the Reubenites, and to the Gadites, and to half the tribe of Manasseh, spake Joshua, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וְלָרֽאוּבֵנִי֙
And to the Reubenites
H7206
וְלָרֽאוּבֵנִי֙
And to the Reubenites
Strong's:
H7206
Word #:
1 of 8
a reubenite or descendant of reuben
וְלַגָּדִ֔י
and to the Gadites
H1425
וְלַגָּדִ֔י
and to the Gadites
Strong's:
H1425
Word #:
2 of 8
a gadite (collectively) or descendants of gad
שֵׁ֣בֶט
the tribe
H7626
שֵׁ֣בֶט
the tribe
Strong's:
H7626
Word #:
4 of 8
a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan
הַֽמְנַשֶּׁ֑ה
of Manasseh
H4519
הַֽמְנַשֶּׁ֑ה
of Manasseh
Strong's:
H4519
Word #:
5 of 8
menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
Historical Context
Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh received Transjordan territory conditionally—they must fight alongside other tribes before settling (Numbers 32). Joshua held them to Moses' terms, requiring covenant faithfulness despite Moses' death. They fulfilled this obligation (1:16-18, 22:1-6), demonstrating integrity.
Questions for Reflection
- What previous commitments require your continued faithfulness despite changed circumstances?
- How do you honor covenant obligations made under former leadership or seasons?
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Analysis & Commentary
Joshua's reminder to Transjordan tribes of Moses' command shows covenant continuity across leadership transitions. Their settlement east of Jordan while brothers fought west required faithfulness to previous commitments. This demonstrates that changing circumstances don't nullify earlier covenant obligations. God holds His people accountable for promises made under previous leadership.