Joshua 8:30

Then Joshua built an altar. The word translated “then” is not the ordinary connective that is so frequently translated “then” elsewhere. The word here used is more emphatic, placing special stress on the time. It marks the fact that the development of the building of the altar began then, growing out of the situation just described. Israel had been victorious, and had received evidence that God was with them and would drive out the nations before them. It was an opportune moment for them to interrupt their military campaign and to renew their covenant with God. On two separate occasions God had instructed Israel to call a solemn assembly of all the tribes upon Mts. Ebal and Gerizim, shortly after their entrance into Canaan (Deuteronomy 11:26-30; 27:2-8). Israel was to hear the law reread, and its precepts were to be inscribed on stone and placed in the very heart of the country for all, both the Israelites and the other nations, to read. By this means God extended an invitation to all nations to become acquainted with His benevolent purposes, and to join His people.

Geographically the place was in the very center of the land and at the crossroads of travel. Some historians have found great difficulty in admitting the possibility of such a journey through hostile enemy territory at such a time. Josephus supposes that this religious ceremony happened after five years, and the LXX places this passage after chapter 9:1, 2. But all attempts to adjust the time are entirely unnecessary. Though in the midst of an enemy’s country, as yet unconquered, Israel passed on unharmed, because the terror of God had fallen upon the cities round about, as when Jacob long before had passed through this very region on his way to Bethel (Genesis 35:5). It has also been suggested that no mention is made of a strong place north of Bethel in that part of the country, and that from other passages (see Joshua 17:18) there seems reason to think that a large part of this district was wooded and unpopulated. The confederacy of the southern kings had its center far to the south, and there was a considerable distance between Shechem and the strong places to the north. See on 1 Samuel 9:4.