For reasons that become explicit in Deuteronomy, I would not wish to cross the Jordan and take part in tearing down the altars of the Canaanites. I have imagined myself a Gaddite---a Gadfly if you will---choosing to be something of a conscientious objector and also, well, I am a pastoral type. Your unpacking of the verse and the history behind it and to which it leds is wonderfully interesting. How various are your ways of interpreting...
Hmm…wondering why Moses works this dispute out directly with the Gadites and Reubenites and does not consult God for a “ruling” on what is to be done, as he’s done in past situations (daughters of Zelophehad, et al).
For reasons that become explicit in Deuteronomy, I would not wish to cross the Jordan and take part in tearing down the altars of the Canaanites. I have imagined myself a Gaddite---a Gadfly if you will---choosing to be something of a conscientious objector and also, well, I am a pastoral type. Your unpacking of the verse and the history behind it and to which it leds is wonderfully interesting. How various are your ways of interpreting...
Peter’s comment is a bit of a spoiler- tempting me to read ahead to Deuteronomy. East side of The Jordan seems like wiser choice.
Hmm…wondering why Moses works this dispute out directly with the Gadites and Reubenites and does not consult God for a “ruling” on what is to be done, as he’s done in past situations (daughters of Zelophehad, et al).