Therefore we said, Let us now prepare to build us an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice:
So we said, 'Let's get ready to build ourselves an altar, but not for burnt offerings or sacrifices.'
The eastern tribes are explaining that they want to build an altar, but not for worship purposes, they have a different reason in mind.
📚 Historical Context
In the book of Joshua, after the Israelites had conquered the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh returned to their territories east of the Jordan River. They built a large altar as a symbol of their shared faith and unity with the other tribes, not for offering sacrifices, to ensure future generations would not question their allegiance to God. This act addressed potential divisions and misunderstandings among the Israelites regarding worship.
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