במדבר, פרק ל״ב, פסוק כ״ו

As the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land, the tribes of Gad and Reuben finalize their arrangement to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River. Their decision to leave their families and flocks behind while their soldiers go forward to fight reflects a profound development in both their military strategy and their faith.

Moses had instructed the vanguard of the army to cross the river for the upcoming battles. Naturally, there would be a fear of leaving women and children exposed and defenseless, which might have prompted the tribes to bring their families along on the military campaign. By explicitly declaring that their families will remain behind, these tribes demonstrate a deep, unwavering trust in God. They are confident that He will protect their vulnerable loved ones while the soldiers are away fighting [העמק דבר].

This arrangement also highlights a practical shift in their plans for settlement and defense [הכתב והקבלה]. Originally, the tribes assumed that absolutely every man would be required to cross the river. Under that assumption, they intended to build new cities right on the banks of the Jordan, allowing the men to rush back quickly if their families were attacked. However, Moses clarified that only the elite vanguard needed to join the war effort, meaning a significant number of men would actually remain on the eastern side. Realizing this, the tribes no longer needed to construct new riverside settlements. Instead, their families could safely reside in the established cities of Gilead. Even though these previously conquered cities are further from the river, the families will be secure because there is a dedicated force of men staying behind to protect them.