Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 22:10. It’s a pretty dramatic passage about a serious transgression. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Situation: After the Israelites had conquered the land of Canaan (the area now known as Israel), they were moving further into it. Building an Altar: A group of Reuben, Gad, and a portion of Manasseh (a tribe of people that was left behind) decided to build a massive altar right by the Jordan River. “A Great Altar” : This isn't just any altar – it’s a huge, ornate one built specifically for observation. They wanted to watch and see something. What It Means in Terms of God’s Perspective: This act was seen as a serious disrespect towards God and a sign of rebellion against divine law. It suggests: They were trying to be independent: They weren't just building an altar; they were attempting to establish their own authority over the land, defying God’s established order. A Test of Faith: It’s likely that this action was a test of whether the Israelites were truly committed to following God’s instructions and living according to His laws. A Warning: It's a warning to the Israelites – they needed to be more mindful of their relationship with God and remember to honor Him in all things. Important Note: This verse is a bit unsettling because it shows a moment of pride and defiance that went against what was expected of them as a nation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore the meaning behind the symbolism of an altar in biblical stories?