Joshua 22:10

Upon reaching the borders of Jordan in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh decided to build a great altar by the river. This decision sparked controversy among the Israelites who believed that this altar was a sign of rebellion against the Lord. The building of this altar led to fear and misunderstanding among the tribes who worried that it would lead to a separation from the worship of the Lord. The altar was meant to symbolize the unity of the twelve tribes of Israel and their commitment to serving the Lord. However, the altar ended up causing discord and confusion among the tribes, eventually leading to a resolution where the altar served as a reminder of the importance of unity and communication among the people of God.

One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the significance of the altar built by the children of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh on the borders of Jordan in the land of Canaan. The act of building an altar was a demonstration of their commitment to the God of Israel and a way to acknowledge the divine presence in their midst. The altar served as a symbol of their faith and a reminder of the covenant between God and the Israelites. Additionally, the location of the altar by the Jordan river holds further theological significance, as the Jordan river was often seen as a boundary between the wilderness and the promised land. By building the altar at this border, the tribes were symbolically declaring their faith as they entered into the land of Canaan. The act of building a "great altar to see to" also highlights the importance of worship and reverence towards God in the lives of the Israelites, emphasizing the need for spiritual practices to be a central part of their journey.