Joshua 22:16
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 22:16
16 Thus saith the whole congregation of the LORD, What trespass is this that ye have committed against the God of Israel, to turn away this day from following the LORD, in that ye have builded you an altar, that ye might rebel this day against the LORD?
Chapter Context
Joshua 22 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, love, sacrifice. Written during the conquest of Canaan (c. 1406-1375 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Canaan was fragmented into city-states with various tribal alliances and religious practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Joshua and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Joshua 22:16
16 Thus saith the whole congregation of the LORD, What trespass is this that ye have committed against the God of Israel, to turn away this day from following the LORD, in that ye have builded you an altar, that ye might rebel this day against the LORD?
Analysis
What trespass is this that ye have committed against the God of Israel—The Hebrew word for trespass (מַעַל, ma'al) denotes covenant unfaithfulness or treachery, the same term used for Achan's sin (Joshua 7:1). The accusation is grave: not merely a mistake, but covenant breaking.
To turn away this day from following the LORD, in that ye have builded you an altar—Deuteronomy 12:13-14 explicitly forbade multiple altars for sacrifice: "Take heed to thyself that thou offer not thy burnt offerings in every place... But in the place which the LORD shall choose." The delegation reasonably assumed this altar violated the centralized worship commanded by Moses, potentially establishing a rival worship center that would split the nation.
Historical Context
The Mosaic law mandated one legitimate altar at the tabernacle (later the temple) to prevent the syncretism that plagued the Canaanites. Multiple altars historically led to idolatry (1 Kings 12:28-33, where Jeroboam's rival altars destroyed the northern kingdom).
Reflection
- How does concern for theological purity sometimes lead to misunderstanding brothers who share the same faith?
- What distinguishes righteous zeal for God's worship from destructive suspicion of fellow believers?
- How should we balance guarding orthodoxy with assuming the best about brothers' motives?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)