But that it may be a witness between us, and you, and our generations after us, that we might do the service of the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your children may not say to our children in time to come, Ye have no part in the LORD.

JOSHUA 22:27KJV
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Joshua 22:27 (KJV)

What does Joshua 22:27 mean?

Joshua 22:27 explains that the altar built by the eastern tribes was meant to be a visible reminder—a "witness"—between them and the rest of Israel, showing that they too serve the LORD with offerings and sacrifices. The verse emphasizes that this was to prevent future generations from being told they have no share in worshiping the LORD.

In this verse, the leaders of the tribes east of the Jordan are speaking to the other Israelites, explaining why they built an altar. They want to make sure that their descendants and the descendants of the western tribes remember that both groups are united in serving the LORD, even though they live on opposite sides of the river. The concern is that, over time, distance might lead to division or exclusion from worship.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 22:27

  • "witness" (עֵד, ʿēd): This word means more than just a reminder; it is a formal testimony or proof. Here, the altar itself stands as evidence of shared faith and unity.
  • "generations" (דּוֹר, dôr): This word points to the long-term concern, showing the tribes are thinking about their children and grandchildren, not just the present moment.
  • "service" (עֲבֹדָה, ʿăvōdāh): This word refers to the work or worship done for the LORD, highlighting that the altar is about shared religious duties, not rebellion or separation.
  • "part" (חֵלֶק, ḥēleq): This word means a share or portion. The fear is that future Israelites might claim the eastern tribes have no rightful share in the LORD, which would cut them off from the community and worship.

Why Joshua 22:27 matters

  • Joshua 22:27 clears up the misunderstanding that the altar was built for rebellion or as a rival place of worship; it was actually meant to preserve unity and shared worship.
  • The verse highlights the importance of visible reminders and shared symbols in keeping a community together across generations and geography.
  • This explanation connects to the wider story, where suspicion and potential conflict are resolved through honest communication and a focus on shared faith.