John Calvin Commentary Numbers 32:16

"And they came near unto him, and said, We will build sheepfolds here for our cattle, and cities for our little ones:" — Numbers 32:16 (ASV)

And they came near to him, and said. It is probable that they returned after having held a consultation; and now—when they had considered what they should do, before promising what they had not previously thought of—they assented to the decision of Moses, in accordance with their general opinion.

From their reply itself, we gather how effectively the severity of Moses had influenced their minds. If he had dealt with them with greater mildness and gentleness, his kindness would perhaps have been received with contempt. It was more profitable, therefore, that their stubborn hearts should be struck with shame and fear, so that they would lay aside their rebelliousness.

Still, they did not altogether abandon their request but devised a middle course by which, while they did not forsake their brethren, they could still occupy the land.

They promised, then, to accompany them throughout the whole expedition and to unite with them in the war; indeed, even to be the first to undergo danger and expose themselves to the attacks of the enemy, provided a settled place to live would be granted to them for their families and their herds.

Thus they would be exempt from guilt, since the rest would not be held back by their bad example, nor would the strength of the people for carrying on the war be diminished. In one respect only they would have the advantage: by settling their wives and children in a peaceful place, they would have the opportunity to improve their domestic finances.