Norwegian 2018 (Bibelen - Guds Ord Hverdagsbibelen (Hermon Forlag))
Da de kom til Jordan i Kanaans land, bygde Rubens stamme et stort og ruvende alter sammen med Gads stamme og halvparten av Manasses stamme. Da Israels folk fikk høre om at stammene på andre siden av Jordan hadde bygd et alter, samlet de seg i Sjilo for å gå til krig mot dem. De sendte først én delegasjon ledet av Pinhas, presten Elasars sønn, for å snakke med Rubens, Gads og halvparten av Manasses stamme. I denne delegasjonen var det ti ledere i Israel, én leder og overhode fra hver av Israels ti stammer. Da de kom på andre siden av Jordan, sa de til dem som hadde bygd alteret:
What Does This Mean?
This verse describes how the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh built a large altar near the Jordan River. They did this after they returned from their journey across the river to settle in their promised land. The altar was visible and likely intended for a significant purpose.
Explained for Children
Imagine you and your friends built a big clubhouse right next to your favorite playground. This altar was like a big clubhouse for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. They built it near the Jordan River to show how important it was to them.
Historical Background
Joshua 22 was written by Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, after they had conquered the land of Canaan. The verse reflects the time shortly after the division of the Promised Land, around 1400-1300 BC. The audience was the Israelites, and the cultural setting was one of new beginnings and settlements.
Living It Out Today
Today, this verse can be seen as a reminder to create meaningful symbols in our lives that reflect our values. For example, a family might hang a picture of their ancestors in their home as a reminder of their heritage and values.
The tribes likely built the altar as a place for worship and to remember their covenant with God. It served as a physical symbol of their faith.
What does this altar symbolize?
The altar symbolizes the commitment of the tribes to their faith and their relationship with God. It also serves as a boundary marker between their land and the rest of Canaan.
How does this relate to the rest of the book of Joshua?
This event ties into Joshua's efforts to unite the tribes and establish their presence in the Promised Land. The altar is a physical manifestation of their shared faith.
What can we learn from this in our modern lives?
We can learn the importance of creating tangible symbols that remind us of our values and commitments, similar to how the altar served as a reminder for the tribes.