Joshua 22:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 22:23
23 That we have built us an altar to turn from following the LORD, or if to offer thereon burnt offering or meat offering, or if to offer peace offerings thereon, let the LORD himself require it;
Chapter Context
Joshua 22 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of discipleship, redemption, faith. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 22:23
23 That we have built us an altar to turn from following the LORD, or if to offer thereon burnt offering or meat offering, or if to offer peace offerings thereon, let the LORD himself require it;
Analysis
That we have built us an altar to turn from following the LORD, or if to offer thereon burnt offering or meat offering, or if to offer peace offerings thereon—The eastern tribes emphatically deny sacrificial intent. They list three types of offerings—olah (burnt offering, עֹלָה), minchah (grain offering, מִנְחָה), and shelamim (peace offerings, שְׁלָמִים)—covering the entire Levitical sacrificial system, affirming they will offer NONE of these on the altar.
Let the LORD himself require it—The phrase "require it" (דָּרַשׁ, darash) means to seek out and punish. They again invoke divine judgment if their altar serves sacrificial purposes, placing the matter directly in God's hands rather than human courts.
Historical Context
This categorical denial addresses the core legal issue: Deuteronomy 12 forbids sacrificial altars anywhere except the central sanctuary. By renouncing all sacrificial use, the eastern tribes claim exemption from this law—the altar serves another purpose entirely.
Reflection
- How does their specific, detailed denial demonstrate the importance of clear communication in resolving conflict?
- Why is it significant that they repeatedly invoke God's judgment rather than merely defending themselves to men?
- What does this teach about addressing accusations with both truth and humility?
Word Studies
- Altar: מִזְבֵּחַ (Mizbeach) H4196 - Altar, place of sacrifice
Cross-References
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 20:16
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 18:19