Joshua 11:12

Joshua captured all these kings and their cities and put them to the sword. He devoted them to destruction, as Moses the LORD's servant had commanded.

Study Bible

Joshua captured
The name "Joshua" is derived from the Hebrew "Yehoshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." This highlights Joshua's role as a divinely appointed leader, continuing the mission of Moses. His capturing of cities signifies the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel, demonstrating God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience to divine commands.

all these royal cities
The term "royal cities" refers to the significant and fortified cities ruled by kings in Canaan. Archaeological evidence suggests these cities were centers of power and culture. Their capture symbolizes the transfer of power from the Canaanites to the Israelites, fulfilling God's promise to give the land to His people.

and their kings
The kings represent the political and military leadership of the Canaanite people. By defeating these kings, Joshua dismantled the existing power structures, paving the way for the establishment of Israelite governance. This act underscores the theme of divine justice and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth.

and struck them down with the sword
The sword is a symbol of divine judgment and warfare. In the ancient Near Eastern context, warfare was often seen as a means of executing divine will. Joshua's actions are portrayed as an extension of God's judgment against the Canaanites, who were known for their idolatry and immorality.

devoting them to destruction
The phrase "devoting them to destruction" translates the Hebrew term "herem," which means to consecrate or dedicate something to God, often through complete destruction. This was a common practice in ancient Israel, signifying the removal of anything that could lead the Israelites away from God. It reflects the seriousness of maintaining purity and holiness among God's people.

as Moses the servant of the LORD had commanded
Moses is consistently referred to as "the servant of the LORD," highlighting his role as a faithful mediator of God's will. The reference to Moses' command emphasizes continuity in leadership and obedience to God's instructions. It serves as a reminder of the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, where blessings are contingent upon obedience to divine commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses. He is tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and executing God's commands.

2. Royal Cities
These are the cities ruled by kings in the land of Canaan. They represent the strongholds of the Canaanite peoples that Joshua and the Israelites are commanded to conquer.

3. Kings
The rulers of the Canaanite cities who opposed Israel. Their defeat signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the Israelites.

4. Moses
The servant of the LORD who led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Law from God. He commanded the Israelites to conquer the land as part of God's covenant.

5. Devotion to Destruction
This term refers to the complete destruction of the Canaanite cities and peoples as an act of divine judgment and obedience to God's command.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's actions demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when they are difficult or involve significant challenges.

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
The destruction of the Canaanite cities serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His right to execute judgment on nations.

Faith and Leadership
Joshua's leadership is marked by faith in God's promises and commands, setting an example for believers to follow in trusting and leading according to God's will.

The Fulfillment of God's Promises
The conquest of the land is a fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, showing that God is faithful to His word.

The Seriousness of Sin
The complete destruction of the Canaanites underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for holiness among God's people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's obedience to God's command in Joshua 11:12 challenge us in our own walk with God today?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises through the events described in Joshua 11:12?

3. How does the concept of "devotion to destruction" in this passage relate to the New Testament teachings on sin and holiness?

4. What leadership qualities of Joshua can we apply in our roles within our families, churches, or communities?

5. How do the events in Joshua 11:12 connect with the broader account of God's plan for redemption throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage outlines God's command to the Israelites to destroy the nations in Canaan completely, which Joshua is fulfilling in Joshua 11:12.

Exodus 23:23-24
God promises to send an angel before the Israelites to bring them into the land and commands them to destroy the inhabitants and their idols.

Hebrews 11:30-31
This New Testament passage highlights the faith of the Israelites in conquering Jericho, connecting the theme of faith and obedience in the conquest accounts.