Definition: Notwithstanding, if the land of your possession [be] unclean, [then] pass ye over unto the land of the possession of the LORD, wherein the LORDâÂÂS tabernacle dwelleth, and take possession among us: but rebel not against the LORD, nor rebel against us, in building you an altar beside the altar of the LORD our God.
Explanation: Okay, letâs break down this verse from Joshua 22:19. Itâs a really important part of how God deals with people who have disobeyed him. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Imagine this is like a time when someone has messed up a big deal â maybe they built a temple or shrine that wasnât right, or perhaps they werenât following Godâs instructions. Joshua is leading the Israelites through the land and facing a situation where they've made a mistake. What it Says: âNotwithstandingâ : This means even though there was a problem, God still has a plan for them. Itâs not about giving up completely. âIf the land of your possession [be] uncleanâŚâ : This is the key part. âPossessionâ in this context refers to a place â the land theyâve been given. "Unclean" means it's not clean or right before Godâs eyes. ââŚ[then] pass ye over unto the land of the possession of the LORDâŚâ : This is God saying, âIf things aren't right here , then let us move you to a place where He has a presence and isnât being bothered.â ââŚwhere the LORDâs tabernacle dwellethâŚâ : This means God is living in that place. The Tabernacle was a special dwelling or sanctuary for God, and it's important for them to be near Him. "...and take possession among us:" : This means they get to use that land, but not as owners. Theyâre allowed to occupy it, but under Godâs watchful eye. âbut rebel not against the LORDâŚâ : This is a very important part. It warns them not to fight or disobey God. "...nor rebel against us, in building you an altar beside the altar of the LORD our God.â : This means they donât start building their own temples or shrines, or anything that would be disrespectful to God. They need to remain respectful and follow God's instructions. In a nutshell: God is giving them a chance to make things right. If they continue to disobey him and disrespect the sacred places He has designated, then theyâre given the option to move to a place where He will be present and not be bothered. They must remain faithful to God's will. Why is this important? This verse highlights that God is watching over his people and that obedience is essential for a good relationship with Him. It speaks of forgiveness, repentance, and a return to the way things were right from the beginning. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Give an example of a situation where this verse might be relevant?