Joshua 22:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 22:28
28 Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should so say to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say again, Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it is a witness between us and you.
Chapter Context
Joshua 22 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of creation, love, judgment. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 22:28
28 Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should so say to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say again, Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it is a witness between us and you.
Analysis
Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should so say to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say again, Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD—The eastern tribes envision a future scenario where their descendants face exclusion. They can point to the memorial altar and say, "Look at the pattern (תַּבְנִית, tavnit) of the LORD's altar"—proving their fathers intended to worship at the legitimate sanctuary.
Which our fathers made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it is a witness between us and you—The repetition of "not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices" (third time) emphasizes the altar's non-cultic function. It witnesses TO the true altar, not competing WITH it. The memorial points to Shiloh, not away from it.
Historical Context
The word tavnit (pattern) is the same term used for the tabernacle pattern shown to Moses (Exodus 25:9). The eastern altar was likely a replica in appearance but entirely different in function—a visual testimony rather than a functional sanctuary.
Reflection
- How do our churches and practices serve as 'patterns' or witnesses to future generations about what we believed?
- What safeguards can we build now to help our children defend their covenant participation decades from now?
- How does this vision for multi-generational faithfulness challenge short-term thinking in modern Christianity?
Word Studies
- Sacrifice: זֶבַח (Zevach) H2077 - Sacrifice, offering