What happensPermalink
Joshua releases Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh back to the east side of the Jordan, since the conquest is complete. They set up an altar, which the western tribes see as idolatry. They explain the altar is a reminder that they are part of Israel, and war is averted.
Why it mattersPermalink
The twelve tribes are a single nation, although they are now scattered across Canaan and on both sides of the River Jordan.
Key versePermalink
“Far be it from us that we should rebel against the Lord and turn away this day from following the Lord by building an altar for burnt offering, grain offering, or sacrifice, other than the altar of the Lord our God that stands before his tabernacle!”