Overview of Joshua 20–22 (KJV)

Chapter Summaries

Joshua 20 — Cities of Refuge

God commands Joshua to appoint six cities of refuge as He had spoken to Moses (Joshua 20:1–2). These were sanctuaries where one who had accidentally slain another might flee for safety from the avenger of blood. Three were on the west of Jordan—Kedesh in Galilee, Shechem in Mount Ephraim, and Kirjath-arba (Hebron) in Judah—and three on the east—Bezer in Reuben, Ramoth in Gilead, and Golan in Bashan (vv. 7–8).

This provision demonstrates God’s mercy balanced with His justice. It did not excuse sin, but protected those who had acted “unwittingly” until fair trial. The avenger of blood (a near relative of the slain) could not lawfully take vengeance without trial before the congregation (v. 6).

Joshua 21 — Levitical Cities

The Levites, who had no inheritance of land, were given forty-eight cities distributed among the other tribes, including the six cities of refuge (Joshua 21:41). These cities were scattered strategically so the Levites could teach and minister throughout the land. The chapter concludes triumphantly: “There failed not ought of any good thing which the LORD had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass” (v. 45).

This chapter marks the fulfillment of God’s covenantal promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Israel now possessed the land, the tribes were settled, and the Levites were in place as spiritual instructors.

Joshua 22 — The Eastern Tribes Return and the Altar of Witness

Joshua commends and dismisses the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh, who had fulfilled their duty in helping conquer the land west of Jordan. They return home with great riches (Joshua 22:8). Upon reaching the Jordan, they build a great altar by the river.

When the western tribes hear of this, they assume rebellion—thinking the altar was for sacrifice in defiance of the tabernacle at Shiloh—and prepare for war (vv. 11–12). However, a delegation led by Phinehas and the princes confronts them, and the eastern tribes explain that the altar was not for offerings but “a witness” between them and the rest of Israel, lest future generations forget they belonged to the LORD (v. 27). The explanation satisfies the western tribes, and peace is restored.

This incident reveals the zeal for maintaining unity and purity of worship, balanced with the need for careful investigation before judgment.

Key People and Places

• Joshua – Faithful leader ensuring obedience to all the LORD commanded.

• Levites – Tribe appointed for spiritual service; dispersed among all tribes.

• Phinehas son of Eleazar – Zealous priest who mediates between the tribes, preserving national unity (22:13–31).

• Cities of Refuge – Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, Golan.

• Jordan River – Geographical boundary dividing east and west Israel, symbolic of separation yet unity under one covenant.

• Shiloh – Central worship site where the tabernacle resided.

Main Doctrinal or Spiritual Themes

1. God’s Justice and Mercy (Chapter 20)
   The cities of refuge typify God’s provision for mercy within law. They foreshadow Christ—our Refuge from judgment—who receives the repentant sinner fleeing from wrath (Hebrews 6:18).

2. Faithful Fulfillment of God’s Promises (Chapter 21)
   God’s word stands unbroken. Israel’s settled possession shows divine faithfulness, a reminder that what God promises, He performs (Romans 4:21).

3. Purity and Unity of Worship (Chapter 22)
   The altar episode stresses that worship must center where God has appointed. Any deviation invites danger. Yet it also illustrates that misunderstanding can be resolved by communication guided by godly leadership.

Practical Applications or Lessons

1. Seek Refuge in Christ — Just as the manslayer fled swiftly to the city of refuge, the sinner must flee to Christ for safety from divine judgment. Delay is perilous.

2. Serve Faithfully in Your Place — Like the Levites, believers today are to minister wherever God places them. Every Christian’s calling includes representing God’s truth in his sphere.

3. Value Unity Among God’s People — The near civil war in Joshua 22 warns against rash judgment and division. Zeal for truth must be tempered by grace and communication.

4. Trust God’s Faithfulness — The closing words of chapter 21 assure believers that not one word of God’s promises ever fails. This strengthens faith in every trial.

Summary Thought

Joshua 20–22 concludes the division of the land and highlights God’s perfect blend of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. The people of God are now settled but must maintain unity and obedience lest blessing turn to judgment.