16. They approached Moses and said, “First, allow us to build stone enclosures here for our sheep and fortified towns for our dependants.
17. Then we will be ready to go with our fellow-Israelites into battle and lead the attack until we have settled them in the land that will be theirs. In the meantime, our dependants can live here in the fortified towns, safe from the people of this land.
18. We will not return to our homes until all the other Israelites have taken possession of the land assigned to them.
19. We will not take possession of any property among them on the other side of the Jordan, because we have received our share here east of the Jordan.”
20. Moses answered, “If you really mean what you say, then here in the presence of the Lord get ready to go into battle.
21. All your fighting men are to cross the Jordan and under the command of the Lord they are to attack our enemies until the Lord defeats them
22. and takes possession of the land. After that, you may return, because you will have fulfilled your obligation to the Lord and to your fellow-Israelites. Then the Lord will acknowledge that this land east of the Jordan is yours.