The conquest and division of the Land of Israel have finally reached their conclusion, marking the moment to release the tribes who had crossed the Jordan River to fight alongside their brothers. For years, these tribes operated as an independent military force, fully integrated into the Israelite camp to assist in the various campaigns [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Now, the leader of the nation summons them for a formal and deeply appreciative farewell, ready to grant them their rightful reward and send them home to their territory on the eastern side of the Jordan.
This dismissal is far more than a technical release; it is a profound expression of gratitude. The leader praises these tribes for their excellence across four distinct areas. First, they showed absolute truth and reliability by fulfilling every detail of their original condition with Moses. Second, they displayed immense respect and discipline by obeying every tactical and military order given during the long years of war. Third, they acted with deep brotherhood and love, standing firmly by their fellow Israelites without ever abandoning the front lines. Finally, they demonstrated true service to God by marching alongside the Ark of the Covenant and guarding it with the utmost care [אברבנאל].
Their dedication went well beyond their basic obligations. According to their initial agreement with Moses, they were only required to remain on the front lines until the physical conquest of the land was complete. Instead, they willingly chose to stay for several more years, waiting until the entire land was fully divided among the other tribes. By taking on this extra burden and showing such strict obedience to a human leader, such as following specific instructions during the capture of Jericho, they proved their character. This level of commitment serves as a guarantee that they will continue to observe God's commandments with that very same devotion in the future [אלשיך].
As they prepare to leave, they are given a final warning to remain faithful to the Torah, along with a blessing and a massive amount of wealth. They return home with abundant livestock, silver, gold, copper, iron, and clothing, which represents their just share of the enemy spoils earned through their participation in conquering the cities [רלב״ג]. During this address, the half-tribe of Manasseh is spoken to separately due to their unique circumstances. While the tribes of Reuben and Gad return home in their entirety, the tribe of Manasseh is divided. Therefore, they receive an explicit instruction to take the vast wealth they have gathered and share it equally with the other half of their tribe, who will remain and settle in the land of Canaan [אברבנאל].