Numbers 32: Compromise

Some people think that compromise is great; others think that it is virtually a dirty word!  While I never endorse moral compromise, strategic compromise can be wise.  Moses discovered this in Numbers 32.

Here's the situation: some of the tribes (Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh) prefer the land on the east of the Jordan that the Israelites have already conquered to Canaan on the west.  This region, called Transjordan, is suitable for the large number of cattle that these tribes possess.

The leaders of these tribes come to Moses with a request: Don't make us cross the Jordan with the other tribes.  Let us settle down and establish our inheritance on this side of the river (vs. 5).

At first, Moses is irritated.  He immediately assumes that these tribes are committing the same kind of sin that their fathers did at rejecting the Lord's summons to go into Canaan a generation previously.  Moses angrily accuses them of threatening the people's standing before God once again (vs. 15).

But the tribal leaders are quick to assure Moses that this is not a question of doubt or rebellion.  They are prepared (so they say) to go to battle with their brothers on the west side of the Jordan when it comes time to take that territory (vs. 17).  They just want Moses' blessing for them to establish their homes and farms and tribes in the Transjordan region.

Moses reconsiders their suggestion.  He agrees that if they honor their offer to go with the other tribes in their conquest of Canaan, then they may settle the Transjordan and consider it their inheritance.  He concludes with a warning for them to do as they have promised (vs. 24).

And so a compromise was struck.  The tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh are going to make their homes on the east side of the Jordan River.  But they have sworn to fight alongside Israel so that the rest of the tribes may come into their inheritance in Canaan.  As long as they honor their agreement, everything should be acceptable.