¹⁷ But we will arm ourselves for battle^[a] and go ahead of the Israelites^(A) until we have brought them to their place.^(B) Meanwhile our women and children will live in fortified cities, for protection from the inhabitants of the land.

²⁰ Then Moses said to them, “If you will do this—if you will arm yourselves before the Lord for battle^(A)

²⁷ But your servants, every man who is armed for battle, will cross over to fight^(A) before the Lord, just as our lord says.”

²⁸ Then Moses gave orders about them^(A) to Eleazar the priest and Joshua son of Nun^(B) and to the family heads of the Israelite tribes.^(C)

¹⁴ Your wives,^(A) your children and your livestock may stay in the land^(B) that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle,^(C) must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites.^(D) You are to help them