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.

In the fascinating tale of Joshua, a dramatic showdown unfolds on the banks of the Jordan. The incident of the altar is a fantastic reminder of how misinterpretation can lead to fierce misunderstandings. The tribes living on the east side were worried that their identities might meld with foreign worship practices if left unchecked, which illustrates the power of symbols in a nuanced society.

This altar, envisioned as a witness or a memorial, peaked the West tribes’ suspicion, essentially becoming a catalyst for potential conflict! Can you picture the tension? One group thinking an abandoned altar meant abandoning true worship of God while the builder tribes believed they were reinforcing faith!

It's also noteworthy to reflect on how this incident illustrates the significance of community and dialogue in religious life. Communication could have averted a threatening war. This holds a parallel to cultural conversations today, affirming the importance of understanding each other’s intentions before jumping to conclusions!

Additionally, there's an interesting echo in this narrative regarding the sacredness of space. Just as that altar was meant to honor a true God, modern faiths often have their own 'altars' or practices—rituals that unite believers in recognition of a divine presence. It reminds us that symbols sometimes hold power that extends far beyond their physical structure, binding us in both rich diversity and common belief.