16. But they approached Moses and said, “We simply want to build pens for our livestock and fortified towns for our wives and children.
17. Then we will arm ourselves and lead our fellow Israelites into battle until we have brought them safely to their land. Meanwhile, our families will stay in the fortified towns we build here, so they will be safe from any attacks by the local people.
18. We will not return to our homes until all the people of Israel have received their portions of land.
19. But we do not claim any of the land on the other side of the Jordan. We would rather live here on the east side and accept this as our grant of land.”
20. Then Moses said, “If you keep your word and arm yourselves for the lord’s battles,