Old Testament
Joshua 22:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who had settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, constructed a significant altar.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
When they reached the Jordan River, in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben, the children of Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built a large and impressive altar there by the Jordan.
And when they came unto the borders of Jordan, that are in the land of Canaan, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh built there an altar by Jordan, a great altar to see to.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who had settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River, constructed a significant altar. This act was not merely for worship but also served as a symbol of their identity and unity with the rest of Israel. The altar was impressive and visible, indicating its importance. The tribes wanted to ensure that their descendants would remember their connection to the covenant community of Israel, even though they lived apart from the main body of the nation. This act could have been misunderstood as a rebellion or a separate worship practice, which later led to tensions. The construction of the altar highlights the importance of maintaining unity and communication within the community of believers, as well as the significance of shared symbols in expressing faith and identity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Joshua 22:10 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of maintaining our identity within a community of faith. Just as the tribes built an altar to signify their connection, we should find ways to express our faith and unity with others, ensuring that we communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 22:10 mean?
Joshua 22:10 describes how the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built a large altar by the Jordan River. This act symbolized their identity and unity with the rest of Israel, despite living on the eastern side of the river.
What is the significance of the altar in Joshua 22:10?
The altar built by the tribes in Joshua 22:10 served as a visible symbol of their connection to the covenant community of Israel. It was meant to remind future generations of their shared faith and identity.
Why did the tribes build an altar in Joshua 22:10?
The tribes built the altar in Joshua 22:10 to express their unity with the rest of Israel and to ensure that their descendants would remember their ties to the covenant community, despite their geographical separation.
What themes are present in Joshua 22:10?
Joshua 22:10 highlights themes of unity, identity, worship, and communication within the community of believers. It emphasizes the importance of shared symbols in maintaining connections among God's people.
The Book of Joshua
1: God Commissions Joshua
After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.
Unlock the full Joshua summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Joshua — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Joshua summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.