Joshua 22:18 - that you must turn away today from following Yahweh? It will be, since you rebel today against Yahweh, that tomorrow he will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel.
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What does "Joshua 22:18" mean?
This verse is part of a speech delivered by a delegation sent from the rest of Israel to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. These tribes had been given land east of the Jordan River, but they had helped the other tribes conquer the land west of the Jordan. After fulfilling their promise, they were returning to their own territory.
The other tribes were very concerned and suspicious because the returning tribes had built a large altar near the Jordan River. They feared this was an act of rebellion against Yahweh (God).
Here's a breakdown of the meaning of Joshua 22:18:
"That you must turn away today from following Yahweh?" - This is the central accusation. The delegation is asking if the construction of the altar signifies that the eastern tribes are abandoning their allegiance to Yahweh. They suspect this new altar is intended for sacrifices and worship outside of the designated place of worship at the Tabernacle. This would be a violation of God's commands and a form of idolatry.
"It will be, since you rebel today against Yahweh, that tomorrow he will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel." - This is the crucial warning. The delegation believes that rebellion by these tribes will bring divine judgment not just upon them, but upon the entire nation of Israel. They have a strong sense of collective responsibility and understand that God holds the entire community accountable for the sins of individuals or groups within it. This speaks to the communal nature of faith and consequences in the Old Testament. The "tomorrow" suggests that the consequences will be swift and devastating.
In essence, the verse highlights the following points:
The importance of exclusive devotion to Yahweh: Any perceived deviation from worshipping God in the prescribed manner was considered a serious offense.
The concept of corporate responsibility: The actions of one group could affect the entire nation's relationship with God.
The fear of divine judgment: Rebellion against God was seen as inevitably leading to punishment.
The need for unity and obedience: The tribes were expected to remain united in their worship and obedience to God's laws.
The delegation's concern stemmed from previous instances where Israel had disobeyed God, leading to disastrous consequences. They were determined to prevent a similar catastrophe. This verse demonstrates the seriousness with which the Israelites took their covenant with God and the consequences of disobedience. Ultimately, it was determined that the altar was not for sacrifices but for a memorial.
Joshua 22:18 - that you must turn away today from following Yahweh? It will be, since you rebel today against Yahweh, that tomorrow he will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel.
What does "Joshua 22:18" mean?
This verse is part of a speech delivered by a delegation sent from the rest of Israel to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. These tribes had been given land east of the Jordan River, but they had helped the other tribes conquer the land west of the Jordan. After fulfilling their promise, they were returning to their own territory.
The other tribes were very concerned and suspicious because the returning tribes had built a large altar near the Jordan River. They feared this was an act of rebellion against Yahweh (God).
Here's a breakdown of the meaning of Joshua 22:18:
"That you must turn away today from following Yahweh?" - This is the central accusation. The delegation is asking if the construction of the altar signifies that the eastern tribes are abandoning their allegiance to Yahweh. They suspect this new altar is intended for sacrifices and worship outside of the designated place of worship at the Tabernacle. This would be a violation of God's commands and a form of idolatry.
"It will be, since you rebel today against Yahweh, that tomorrow he will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel." - This is the crucial warning. The delegation believes that rebellion by these tribes will bring divine judgment not just upon them, but upon the entire nation of Israel. They have a strong sense of collective responsibility and understand that God holds the entire community accountable for the sins of individuals or groups within it. This speaks to the communal nature of faith and consequences in the Old Testament. The "tomorrow" suggests that the consequences will be swift and devastating.
In essence, the verse highlights the following points:
The importance of exclusive devotion to Yahweh: Any perceived deviation from worshipping God in the prescribed manner was considered a serious offense.
The concept of corporate responsibility: The actions of one group could affect the entire nation's relationship with God.
The fear of divine judgment: Rebellion against God was seen as inevitably leading to punishment.
The need for unity and obedience: The tribes were expected to remain united in their worship and obedience to God's laws.
The delegation's concern stemmed from previous instances where Israel had disobeyed God, leading to disastrous consequences. They were determined to prevent a similar catastrophe. This verse demonstrates the seriousness with which the Israelites took their covenant with God and the consequences of disobedience. Ultimately, it was determined that the altar was not for sacrifices but for a memorial.