Numbers 32:16-27

16The men of Reuben and Gad said to Moses, ‘Let us build strong houses here for our women and our children. We will also build places to keep our animals safe.

17Then we will be ready to join the other tribes and we will lead them to the battle. While we are fighting, our families will be safe here. The people who live in this land will not be able to hurt them.

18We will not return to our homes here until all the Israelite tribes receive their own part of the land.

19We will not receive any of the land on the other side of the Jordan River. Our part of the land will be here, on the east side of the river.’

20Moses said to the men, ‘You must really do as you have said. You must take your weapons and go to fight for the Lord.

21Your men must cross over the Jordan River with the other tribes. You must continue to fight until we have won against all our enemies.

22When the Lord has power over the whole land, then you can return here. You will have done everything that the Lord wants you to do. You will have helped the whole Israelite nation in the way that you should. The Lord will give to you this land on the east side of the Jordan River.

23But if you do not do what you have promised, that will be a sin against the Lord. And be sure that God will punish you for your sin.

24So build towns for your families, and build safe places for your animals. But then do everything that you have promised to do.’

25The men in the tribes of Gad and Reuben said to Moses, ‘Yes sir, we will do what you have said.

26Our women, children and our animals will stay here in Gilead's towns.

27But all our men who are able to fight will cross over the river. We will fight on behalf of the Lord, as you have said that we should do.’