16. But approaching closer, they said: "We will manufacture sheep pens and cattle stalls, as well as fortified cities, for our little ones.
17. But we ourselves will continue on, armed and girded for battle, before the sons of Israel, until we lead them to their places. Our little ones, and whatever we may be able to have, shall be in walled cities, because of the treachery of the inhabitants.
18. We will not return to our houses, even until the sons of Israel may possess their inheritance.
19. Neither will we seek anything across the Jordan, because we already have our possession on its eastern side."
20. And Moses said to them: "If you accomplish what you have promised, you may go out, equipped for battle, before the Lord.
21. And let every fighting man cross over the Jordan, until the Lord overthrows his enemies,
22. and all the land is subjected to him. Then you will be guiltless with the Lord and with Israel, and you will obtain the regions which you desire before the Lord.
23. But if you do not do what you have said, no one could doubt that you will have sinned against God. And know this: your sin shall overtake you.
24. Therefore, build cities for your little ones, and pens and stables for your sheep and cattle; and fulfill what you have promised."
25. And the sons of Gad and of Ruben said to Moses: "We are your servants, we shall do what you, our ruler, orders.
26. We will leave behind our little ones, and our wives, and the sheep and cattle, in the cities of Gilead.
27. And we, your servants, all well-equipped, will go forth to battle, just as you, our ruler, has spoken."
28. Therefore, Moses instructed Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the princes of the families throughout the tribes of Israel, and he said to them:
29. "If the sons of Gad and the sons of Ruben cross over the Jordan with you, all armed for war before the Lord, and if the land becomes subject to you, give them Gilead as a possession.