Joshua 11:6

Then the LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them, for by this time tomorrow I will deliver all of them slain before Israel. You are to hamstring their horses and burn up their chariots."

Study Bible

The LORD said to Joshua
This phrase emphasizes the direct communication between God and Joshua, highlighting the divine guidance that Joshua received. In Hebrew, "The LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. This divine assurance is crucial for Joshua, as it reinforces that the battle is not merely a physical struggle but a spiritual mission ordained by God. The personal nature of God's communication underscores the intimate relationship between God and His chosen leader, Joshua.

Do not be afraid of them
Fear is a natural human response to overwhelming odds, and the coalition of kings against Israel was formidable. However, God's command to "not be afraid" is a recurring theme in the Bible, often accompanying divine promises of protection and victory. The Hebrew word for "afraid" is "yare," which can also mean to stand in awe. Here, God is instructing Joshua to replace fear with faith, trusting in God's power rather than being intimidated by the enemy's might.

for by this time tomorrow
This phrase indicates the immediacy and certainty of God's intervention. The specific timeframe underscores God's control over time and events, assuring Joshua that the victory is imminent. It reflects the prophetic nature of God's word, which is always fulfilled. This assurance would have bolstered the morale of Joshua and the Israelites, knowing that their deliverance was not a distant hope but a near certainty.

I will deliver all of them slain before Israel
The phrase "I will deliver" is a promise of divine action. The Hebrew root "nathan" means to give or deliver, emphasizing that the victory is a gift from God, not a result of Israel's military prowess. The assurance that the enemies will be "slain" highlights the totality of the victory God promises. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to bring about His purposes despite human opposition.

You are to hamstring their horses
Hamstringing horses was a common practice in ancient warfare to incapacitate the enemy's cavalry. The Hebrew word "‛āqar" means to cut or disable. This command signifies a strategic move to ensure that the enemy cannot regroup or retaliate. It also reflects a reliance on God's power rather than military technology, as horses and chariots were symbols of military strength. By disabling the horses, Joshua is demonstrating faith in God's provision and protection.

and burn their chariots with fire
Chariots were the tanks of the ancient world, representing the pinnacle of military technology. The command to burn them signifies a complete destruction of the enemy's resources. The act of burning, in Hebrew "saraph," often symbolizes purification and judgment. This command ensures that Israel does not become reliant on captured technology but continues to trust in God's guidance. It also serves as a reminder of God's past deliverances, such as the destruction of Pharaoh's chariots in the Red Sea, reinforcing the theme of divine victory over human might.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who provides guidance and assurance to His people.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel, successor to Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Enemy Kings and Armies
A coalition of Canaanite kings and their armies who oppose Israel's conquest of the land.

4. Horses and Chariots
Symbols of military power and strength in ancient warfare, representing the might of the enemy forces.

5. Israel
The chosen people of God, who are in the process of conquering the Promised Land as part of God's covenant promise.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Promises
Just as God assured Joshua of victory, believers today can trust in God's promises and His faithfulness.

Overcoming Fear
God's command to Joshua not to fear is a reminder that fear can be overcome by faith in God's power and plan.

Divine Strategy
God's instruction to hamstring the horses and burn the chariots teaches reliance on divine strategy rather than human strength.

God's Sovereignty
The passage underscores God's control over the events of history and His ability to deliver His people.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battle faced by Joshua can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual battles, where believers are called to rely on God's strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's assurance to Joshua in this passage encourage you in facing your own fears and challenges?

2. What are some "horses and chariots" in your life that you might be tempted to rely on instead of trusting in God?

3. How can the principle of divine strategy in this passage be applied to decision-making in your life?

4. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can that understanding impact your daily walk with Him?

5. How can the themes of this passage be connected to the New Testament teachings on spiritual warfare and reliance on God's power?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:1
This verse provides a similar assurance from God to Israel not to fear their enemies, emphasizing God's presence and deliverance.

Psalm 20:7
Highlights the contrast between trusting in chariots and horses versus trusting in the name of the LORD.

Isaiah 31:1
Warns against relying on horses and chariots for security instead of trusting in God.

Romans 8:31
Echoes the theme of God's support, stating that if God is for us, who can be against us?