They peacefully returned to their land east of the Jordan, content in the knowledge of God’s fulfilled promise.
Joshua encourages the tribes who have faithfully assisted in conquering the Promised Land, reminding them that “now the LORD your God has given rest to your brothers, as He spoke to them; therefore turn now and go to your tents, to the land of your possession, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you beyond the Jordan” (v.4). This rest represents the fulfillment of God’s promise to settle Israel in a land of their own (Deuteronomy 12:10). By referring to His faithfulness, Joshua highlights that God’s word, first spoken through Moses (1526-1406 BC), has come to pass. Moses, who led Israel out of Egypt decades earlier, granted specific territory east of the Jordan River to these tribes because they requested and were well suited for that land (Numbers 32). This region, also called “beyond the Jordan,” was an area of rich pastureland that lay to the east of the Jordan River, forming part of the boundary of God’s promised inheritance for His people.
In the verse, Joshua gives them permission to depart from the main army’s encampment and return to their allotted land. The phrase “go to your tents” (v.4) indicates a return to their established dwellings and family members. Joshua’s directive acknowledges their duty to fulfill both community obligations (by aiding the other tribes in securing their territory) and personal responsibilities (by caring for their own lands). In this way, he commends them for their willingness to help their fellow Israelites, and simultaneously underscores that every tribe must steward the inheritance God has entrusted to them.
Furthermore, this transition from united military campaign to separate tribal community living illustrates a critical moment of trust in Israel’s covenant relationship with God. They are no longer under the pressing need for warfare, but rather entering a period of settlement and worship. This idea of rest from enemies foreshadows the ultimate rest offered through Christ (Hebrews 4:8-9), reminding believers that the faithful word of God not only grants earthly provision but also points to eternal hope.
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Joshua 22:4 meaning
Joshua encourages the tribes who have faithfully assisted in conquering the Promised Land, reminding them that “now the LORD your God has given rest to your brothers, as He spoke to them; therefore turn now and go to your tents, to the land of your possession, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you beyond the Jordan” (v.4). This rest represents the fulfillment of God’s promise to settle Israel in a land of their own (Deuteronomy 12:10). By referring to His faithfulness, Joshua highlights that God’s word, first spoken through Moses (1526-1406 BC), has come to pass. Moses, who led Israel out of Egypt decades earlier, granted specific territory east of the Jordan River to these tribes because they requested and were well suited for that land (Numbers 32). This region, also called “beyond the Jordan,” was an area of rich pastureland that lay to the east of the Jordan River, forming part of the boundary of God’s promised inheritance for His people.
In the verse, Joshua gives them permission to depart from the main army’s encampment and return to their allotted land. The phrase “go to your tents” (v.4) indicates a return to their established dwellings and family members. Joshua’s directive acknowledges their duty to fulfill both community obligations (by aiding the other tribes in securing their territory) and personal responsibilities (by caring for their own lands). In this way, he commends them for their willingness to help their fellow Israelites, and simultaneously underscores that every tribe must steward the inheritance God has entrusted to them.
Furthermore, this transition from united military campaign to separate tribal community living illustrates a critical moment of trust in Israel’s covenant relationship with God. They are no longer under the pressing need for warfare, but rather entering a period of settlement and worship. This idea of rest from enemies foreshadows the ultimate rest offered through Christ (Hebrews 4:8-9), reminding believers that the faithful word of God not only grants earthly provision but also points to eternal hope.