Joshua 22:19

Joshua 22:19 Meaning and Explanation

Notwithstanding, if the land of your possession be unclean, then pass ye over unto the land of the possession of the LORD, wherein the LORD’s tabernacle dwelleth, and take possession among us: but rebel not against the LORD, nor rebel against us, in building you an altar beside the altar of the LORD our God.

King James Version (KJV)

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They even offer to share their own land rather than let the eastern tribes fall into rebellion.

What Does Joshua 22:19 Mean?

The envoys soften the rebuke with a remarkable offer. If the eastern land seems unclean -- lacking the tabernacle's presence -- then let the tribes come and settle among them, sharing in the Lord's own land, rather than build a rival altar. Their plea is not to be lost from the Lord, nor from one another.

Here zeal turns to mercy. They would rather divide their inheritance than see their brothers cut off from God. Such love prizes a brother's soul above land and property. It is the heart of true fellowship: to spend our own portion gladly if it keeps another close to the Lord and to the family of faith.

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What does Joshua 22:19 mean?

They even offer to share their own land rather than let the eastern tribes fall into rebellion.

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