יהושע, פרק כ״ב, פסוק י״ב

The sudden construction of a massive, highly visible altar by the tribes east of the Jordan River sends an immediate shockwave through the rest of the nation. To the Israelites, this structure represents a clear declaration of separation and an attempt to establish a rival place of worship.

Driven by a profound sense of mutual responsibility and strict loyalty to the laws of God, the people feel an absolute duty to correct this wrong. They are even prepared to wage a civil war against the very warriors who had just risked their lives to help them conquer the land [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The core of this outrage stems from the strict prohibition against private altars. Once the Tabernacle was established in Shiloh, offering sacrifices in any other location became entirely forbidden. The nation naturally assumes that this new altar is intended for burnt offerings and sacrifices, viewing it as a severe sin and a direct rebellion against God [רש"י, רד"ק].

The response of the masses is marked by intense zeal and extreme urgency. The moment the news reaches them, they quickly judge their brothers unfavorably [מלבי"ם]. Their passion for God burns so fiercely that they do not pause to wait for the official ruling of their leadership, such as Joshua or the high court. Instead, they spontaneously assemble on their own initiative [אלשיך]. The rapid sequence of hearing the report and immediately gathering together highlights their decisive readiness to take action [חומת אנך].

As they mobilize, their preparation is distinctly military, assembling with the full force of an army [מצודת ציון, רד"ק]. Yet, this mobilization is carefully conditional. Their intent is to gather the troops and stand ready for battle, but an actual attack will only be launched if the eastern tribes refuse to back down and insist on maintaining their rebellious course [מצודת דוד, מלבי"ם, חומת אנך].