The answer is: Built an altar

Josh 22:10-12 - They thought the altar was built to worship other gods and so were ready to go to war until they realised it had been built as a witness to the true God.

Joshua 22 introduces us to a substantial misunderstanding that almost escalated into conflict among the Israelite tribes. Can you imagine how a simple structure, like an altar, sparked such fury? This story reflects how even among close-knit communities, the tiniest miscommunication can lead to greater chaos. The tribes east of the Jordan—Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh—intended their altar as a symbol of unity and a reminder of their shared faith in the one God, not as a rival altar or a means to stray into idolatry.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of our historical human tendency to judge intentions quickly! The nine-and-a-half tribes in the west jumped to conclusions, assuming disloyalty, showcasing how suspicion can ebb away bonds built on trust. The ultimate resolution where conventional wisdom was laid aside for conversation fosters the idea that understanding and dialogue are paramount.

Interestingly, history gives us echoes of similar misunderstandings. In conflicts between faiths, perceived differences sometimes brew into full-blown disputes. Yet, communication—even when adversaries are keen to raise arms—can lead us back to understanding. We often forget that purity of intention can cloak itself in forms misinterpreted, just as it did behind the stones of an altar. Instead of discarding our peers possessions or ideals, the gentle embrace of dialogue might be the key to recognizing shared aspirations.