◄ Joshua 12 ►
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The Kings Defeated East of the Jordan 1Now these are the kings of the land whom the Israelites struck down and whose lands they took beyond the Jordan to the east, from the Arnon Valley to Mount Hermon, including all the Arabah eastward: 2Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon. He ruled from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, along the middle of the valley, up to the Jabbok River (the border of the Ammonites), that is, half of Gilead, 3as well as the Arabah east of the Sea of Chinneretha to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Seab), eastward through Beth-jeshimoth, and southward below the slopes of Pisgah. 4And Og king of Bashan,c one of the remnant of the Rephaim, who lived in Ashtaroth and Edrei. 5He ruled over Mount Hermon, Salecah, all of Bashan up to the border of the Geshurites and Maacathites, and half of Gilead to the border of Sihon king of Heshbon. 6Moses, the servant of the LORD, and the Israelites had struck them down and given their land as an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The Kings Defeated West of the Jordan 7And these are the kings of the land that Joshua and the Israelites conquered beyond the Jordan to the west, from Baal-gad in the Valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which rises toward Seir (according to the allotments to the tribes of Israel, Joshua gave them as an inheritance 8the hill country, the foothills,d the Arabah, the slopes, the wilderness, and the Negev—the lands of the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites): 9the king of Jericho, one; the king of Ai, which is near Bethel, one; 10the king of Jerusalem, one; the king of Hebron, one; 11the king of Jarmuth, one; the king of Lachish, one; 12the king of Eglon, one; the king of Gezer, one; 13the king of Debir, one; the king of Geder, one; 14the king of Hormah, one; the king of Arad, one; 15the king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one; 16the king of Makkedah, one; the king of Bethel, one; 17the king of Tappuah, one; the king of Hepher, one; 18the king of Aphek, one; the king of Lasharon, one; 19the king of Madon, one; the king of Hazor, one; 20the king of Shimron-meron, one; the king of Achshaph, one; 21the king of Taanach, one; the king of Megiddo, one; 22the king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam in Carmel, one; 23the king of Dor in Naphath-dor,e one; the king of Goiim in Gilgal,f one; 24and the king of Tirzah, one. So there were thirty-one kings in all. Footnotes: 3 a That is, the Sea of Galilee 3 b That is, the Dead Sea 4 c LXX; Hebrew And the territory of Og king of Bashan 8 d Hebrew Shephelah or lowlands; that is, the western foothills of Judea 23 e Or in the heights of Dor; Naphath-dor is a variant of Naphoth-dor; see Joshua 11:2. 23 f Hebrew; LXX Goyim in Galilee Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 12 Summary The Defeated Kings Verses 1–6 – Conquests East of the Jordan under Moses Joshua pauses to list the two kings Moses had already defeated: Sihon of Heshbon and Og of Bashan. Their territories stretched from the Arnon Gorge in the south to Mount Hermon in the north, covering the broad plateau east of the Jordan. Moses “gave their land as an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh” (v. 6). Verses 7–8 – Introduction to Joshua’s Western Victories Attention shifts west of the Jordan. From Baal-gad in Lebanon’s valley down to Mount Halak near Edom, Joshua conquered every zone—hill country, foothills, desert, and Negev—occupied by six major Canaanite people-groups. Verses 9–24 – Thirty-One Kings Defeated West of the Jordan A rapid-fire roll call names each fallen king from Jericho to Tirzah—thirty-one in all. The rhythm underscores Israel’s sweeping triumph and the Lord’s promise fulfilled. This chapter presents a comprehensive record of the kings and lands defeated by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses and Joshua, showcasing their victory and the manifestation of God's promise to the people of Israel. Historical Context and Flow of Joshua Chapters 10–11 described the military campaigns; chapter 12 is the victory plaque. God told Abraham, “To your offspring I will give this land” (Genesis 12:7). Joshua 12 records the tangible delivery of that promise. It also closes the first major division of the book (conquest) before chapter 13 begins the second (land allotment). Geography: East and West of the Jordan • East: The high tableland of Gilead and Bashan enjoys plentiful rainfall and rich pasture; perfect for the livestock-heavy tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh (Numbers 32:1). • West: Varied terrain—from Jericho’s deep rift valley (800 feet below sea level) to Hebron’s hilltops (3000 feet above). Controlling these elevations gave Israel both agricultural wealth and military advantage. Moses and Joshua: Seamless Leadership Deuteronomy 34:9 notes, “Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him.” Joshua 12 links their conquests to show the same divine hand guiding both leaders, easing any fear that the people might be lost after Moses’ death. Kings of the East: Sihon and Og • Sihon, king of the Amorites (Numbers 21:21-30). His refusal of peaceful passage forced Israel into battle. • Og, king of Bashan (Deuteronomy 3:11). A remnant of the giant Rephaim, Og ruled sixty fortified cities. His massive iron bed (about thirteen feet long) became a souvenir of God’s power. The memory of these victories fueled later faith (Psalm 135:10-12). Kings of the West: Jericho to Tirzah 1. Jericho 2. Ai 3. Jerusalem 4. Hebron 5. Jarmuth 6. Lachish 7. Eglon 8. Gezer 9. Debir 10. Geder 11. Hormah 12. Arad 13. Libnah 14. Adullam 15. Makkedah 16. Bethel 17. Tappuah 18. Hepher 19. Aphek 20. Lasharon 21. Madon 22. Hazor 23. Shimron-meron 24. Achshaph 25. Taanach 26. Megiddo 27. Kedesh 28. Jokneam in Carmel 29. Dor in Naphoth-dor 30. Goyim in Gilgal 31. Tirzah Hazor stands out. Joshua 11:10 calls it “the head of all those kingdoms,” and its destruction crippled northern Canaanite resistance. The Number Thirty-One and Completeness Thirty-one kings equal a king for every day of an average month—a literary way of saying “every day, everywhere, God gave victory.” Compare David’s later testimony: “You subdue peoples under me” (Psalm 18:47). Archaeological Notes • Heshbon (Tell Ḥesbân) shows Late Bronze burn layers consistent with Sihon’s fall. • Bashan’s fortified cities match the basalt architecture still visible on the Golan Heights. • Jericho’s collapsed mud-brick rampart, found at Tell es-Sultan, aligns with a sudden citywide destruction. • Hazor (Tell el-Qedah) reveals a massive fire-leveled palace from Joshua’s timeframe. While debates continue, the cumulative material culture paints a plausible backdrop for the conquest narrative. Spiritual Lessons 1. God finishes what He starts. Philippians 1:6 echoes the theme. 2. Past victories inspire present courage. Each named king is a faith-builder. 3. Obedience brings inheritance; compromise would have left fortified pockets of resistance. Links to Earlier Scripture • Promise to Abram: Genesis 15:18-21 lists the same nations Joshua defeats. • Song of the Sea: Exodus 15:15-16 foresaw Canaanite terror—fulfilled here. • Moses’ recap: Deuteronomy 11:24 “Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours” is cited verbatim in Joshua 1:3. Foreshadowing Christ and the Gospel Joshua (Hebrew: Yehoshua, “Yahweh saves”) prefigures Jesus (Greek: Iesous, same root). Just as Joshua subdued hostile kings, Colossians 2:15 says Jesus “disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public spectacle of them.” Joshua’s completed conquests point to Christ’s finished work. Practical Takeaways • Keep a record of God’s answers—lists encourage faith. • Honor faithful leaders while recognizing God as the true warrior (Exodus 15:3). • Don’t stop halfway; partial obedience leaves giants in the land. Connections to Additional Scriptures Deuteronomy 7:24 He will deliver their kings into your hand, and you will wipe out their names from under heaven. No one will be able to stand against you; you will annihilate them. This verse connects to the fulfillment of God's promise in Joshua 12. Psalm 47:2 How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! This verse reinforces the theme of God's sovereignty over all nations. Romans 8:37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. This New Testament verse echoes the victory theme found in Joshua 12. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness Joshua 12 lists the kings defeated by Israel, highlighting God's faithfulness in delivering the Promised Land to His people. This chapter serves as a historical record of God's promises being fulfilled. Divine Sovereignty The defeat of 31 kings (Joshua 12:24) underscores God's sovereignty over all nations and rulers. It reminds us that no earthly power can thwart God's divine plan. Leadership and Obedience The victories were achieved under the leadership of Moses and Joshua, emphasizing the importance of godly leadership and obedience to God's commands. Historical Record This chapter serves as a historical record for the Israelites, reinforcing their identity as God's chosen people and the recipients of His promises. Practical Applications Reflect on Personal Victories Just as Israel remembered their victories, we should take time to reflect on the victories God has granted us in our lives, acknowledging His hand in our successes. Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of uncertainty, remember that God is sovereign over all circumstances. Trust that His plans are for our good and His glory. Value Godly Leadership Seek and support godly leadership in your community and church, recognizing the importance of leaders who follow God's guidance. Document God's Faithfulness Consider keeping a journal of answered prayers and victories in your life as a testament to God's faithfulness. People 1. Sihon King of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon. He controlled the territory from Aroer on the edge of the Arnon Gorge to the Jabbok River, which is the border of the Ammonites. His defeat is significant as it marks the beginning of Israel's conquest of the Promised Land. 2. Og King of Bashan, one of the last of the Rephaim. He reigned in Ashtaroth and Edrei. His territory included Mount Hermon, Salecah, and all of Bashan up to the borders of the Geshurites and Maacathites, as well as half of Gilead. Og's defeat is notable due to his reputation as a giant and formidable opponent. 3. The Thirty-One Kings Defeated by Joshua The chapter lists a total of thirty-one kings defeated by Joshua and the Israelites. These kings ruled various city-states in the land of Canaan, and their defeat represents the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The chapter does not provide individual names for these thirty-one kings, but it emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Israel's conquest under Joshua's leadership. The Hebrew roots of the names Sihon (סִיחוֹן) and Og (עוֹג) reflect their historical and cultural significance in the ancient Near East. Places 1. Jericho The first city conquered by the Israelites in the Promised Land, known for its fortified walls that fell after the Israelites marched around them for seven days (Joshua 12:9). 2. Ai A city near Bethel, initially a site of defeat for Israel due to Achan's sin, but later captured and destroyed (Joshua 12:9). 3. Jerusalem A significant city in biblical history, later becoming the capital of Israel under King David (Joshua 12:10). 4. Hebron A city in the hill country of Judah, associated with the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Joshua 12:10). 5. Jarmuth A city in the Shephelah region, part of the coalition against Israel led by the king of Jerusalem (Joshua 12:11). 6. Lachish A fortified city in the Shephelah, known for its strategic importance (Joshua 12:11). 7. Eglon Another city in the Shephelah, part of the southern coalition against Israel (Joshua 12:12). 8. Gezer A city located on the border of Ephraim and the Philistine territory, later given to Solomon as a dowry (Joshua 12:12). 9. Debir A city in the hill country of Judah, also known as Kiriath Sepher (Joshua 12:13). 10. Geder A lesser-known city, possibly located in the southern part of Judah (Joshua 12:13). 11. Hormah A city in the Negev, previously known as Zephath, destroyed by Israel (Joshua 12:14). 12. Arad A city in the Negev, whose king attacked Israel during their wilderness journey (Joshua 12:14). 13. Libnah A city in the Shephelah, later revolted against Judah during the reign of King Jehoram (Joshua 12:15). 14. Adullam A city in the Shephelah, known for its cave where David hid from King Saul (Joshua 12:15). 15. Makkedah A city where the five Amorite kings hid in a cave before being executed by Joshua (Joshua 12:16). 16. Bethel A city significant in Israel's history, associated with Jacob's dream of a ladder reaching to heaven (Joshua 12:16). 17. Tappuah A city in the hill country of Ephraim, near the border of Manasseh (Joshua 12:17). 18. Hepher A city in the territory of Manasseh, possibly related to the family of Zelophehad (Joshua 12:17). 19. Aphek A city in the northern part of Israel, known for battles against the Philistines (Joshua 12:18). 20. Lasharon A city whose exact location is uncertain, possibly in the northern coastal plain (Joshua 12:18). 21. Madon A city in the northern coalition against Israel, led by King Jabin of Hazor (Joshua 12:19). 22. Hazor A major Canaanite city in the north, destroyed by Joshua and later rebuilt (Joshua 12:19). 23. Shimron Meron A city in the northern coalition, possibly located near modern-day Shimron (Joshua 12:20). 24. Achshaph A city in the northern coalition, possibly located in the region of Asher (Joshua 12:20). 25. Taanach A city in the Jezreel Valley, later assigned to the Levites (Joshua 12:21). 26. Megiddo A strategic city in the Jezreel Valley, known for its association with future prophetic battles (Joshua 12:21). 27. Kedesh A city of refuge in the territory of Naphtali, associated with Barak and Deborah (Joshua 12:22). 28. Jokneam in Carmel A city near Mount Carmel, later assigned to the Levites (Joshua 12:22). 29. Dor (Naphath-dor) A coastal city, known for its association with the Canaanite king of Dor (Joshua 12:23). 30. Goiim in Gilgal A region possibly referring to a coalition of nations or tribes (Joshua 12:23). 31. Tirzah A city later becoming the capital of the northern kingdom of Israel before Samaria (Joshua 12:24). Events 1. Defeat of Kings East of the Jordan The chapter begins by recounting the victories of Moses over the kings east of the Jordan River. This includes the lands taken from the Amorite kings, Sihon and Og. The text highlights the territories conquered and distributed to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. 2. King Sihon of the Amorites Sihon, king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon, is mentioned as one of the defeated kings. His territory extended from the Arnon Gorge to the Jabbok River, including half of Gilead. 3. King Og of Bashan Og, king of Bashan, is noted as another defeated king. He was one of the last of the Rephaim and ruled over Ashtaroth and Edrei. His territory included Mount Hermon, Salecah, and all of Bashan up to the borders of the Geshurites and Maacathites. 4. Victories under Joshua The chapter transitions to the conquests led by Joshua west of the Jordan. It lists the kings defeated by Joshua and the Israelites, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to give them the land. 5. List of Defeated Kings The text provides a detailed list of thirty-one kings defeated by Joshua. This includes kings from various regions such as Jericho, Ai, Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, Eglon, Gezer, Debir, Geder, Hormah, Arad, Libnah, Adullam, Makkedah, Bethel, Tappuah, Hepher, Aphek, Lasharon, Madon, Hazor, Shimron Meron, Achshaph, Taanach, Megiddo, Kedesh, Jokneam in Carmel, Dor in Naphoth-dor, Goiim in Gilgal, and Tirzah. Lessons from Joshua 12 1. Victory Through Obedience In Joshua 12, we see a list of kings defeated by the Israelites, a testament to the power of obedience to God. When we follow God's commands, as Joshua did, we can overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable. "Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you" (Joshua 1:7). This chapter reminds us that victory is not just about strength but about aligning our actions with God's will. 2. God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment The conquests in Joshua 12 are a fulfillment of God's promises to the Israelites. This chapter is a powerful reminder that God is faithful to His word. "Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled" (Joshua 21:45). When we trust in God's promises, we can rest assured that He will bring them to fruition in His perfect timing. 3. The Importance of Leadership Joshua's leadership was crucial in the victories over the kings. His faith and courage inspired the Israelites to trust in God's plan. As leaders in our own lives, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we can learn from Joshua's example to lead with integrity and faithfulness. 4. Acknowledging God's Sovereignty The detailed list of defeated kings in Joshua 12 highlights God's sovereignty over all nations. It serves as a reminder that no earthly power can stand against the will of God. "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof" (Psalm 24:1). Recognizing God's ultimate authority helps us to trust Him more fully in our daily lives. 5. The Power of Unity The Israelites' success was not just due to Joshua's leadership but also their unity as a people. When we work together with a common purpose under God's guidance, we can achieve great things. "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" (Psalm 133:1). Unity in faith and purpose strengthens our communities and our resolve. 6. Remembering Past Victories Joshua 12 serves as a historical record of victories, encouraging the Israelites to remember God's past faithfulness. In our own lives, recalling how God has worked in the past can bolster our faith and give us courage for future challenges. "Remember the wonders He has done, His marvels, and the judgments He pronounced" (1 Chronicles 16:12). 7. The Role of Perseverance The conquests listed in Joshua 12 did not happen overnight. They required perseverance and steadfastness. This chapter teaches us the value of enduring faith and patience in the face of trials. "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9). 8. God's Justice The defeat of the kings in Joshua 12 is a demonstration of God's justice. It reminds us that God is righteous and just, and He will ultimately bring justice to all. "For the LORD loves justice and does not forsake His saints" (Psalm 37:28). Trusting in God's justice allows us to let go of our need for personal vengeance and rely on His perfect judgment. 9. The Significance of Heritage The chapter underscores the importance of heritage and legacy. The victories were not just for the current generation but for future ones. As believers, we are called to leave a legacy of faith for those who come after us. "One generation will commend Your works to the next, and they shall proclaim Your mighty acts" (Psalm 145:4). 10. Gratitude for God's Provision Finally, Joshua 12 encourages us to be grateful for God's provision. Each victory was a gift from God, and acknowledging His provision fosters a heart of gratitude. "Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His loving devotion endures forever" (Psalm 136:1). Gratitude transforms our perspective and draws us closer to God. Topics 1. The Kings Defeated by Moses (Joshua 12:1-6) This section details the kings and territories defeated by Moses on the east side of the Jordan River. It includes the lands of Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan. The text emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel, as these victories were part of the land promised to the Israelites. The Hebrew root words for "defeated" (נכה, nakah) and "king" (מלך, melek) highlight the decisive nature of these victories and the authority of the rulers who were overthrown. 2. The Kings Defeated by Joshua (Joshua 12:7-24) This section lists the kings and territories defeated by Joshua on the west side of the Jordan River. It includes a detailed enumeration of thirty-one kings, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the conquest. The repeated use of the term "king" (מלך, melek) underscores the significant political and military achievements under Joshua's leadership. The listing serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering the land to the Israelites, as promised. Themes 1. Divine Fulfillment of Promises Joshua 12 highlights the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel regarding the land. The chapter lists the conquered kings and territories, demonstrating God's faithfulness. The Hebrew root "נָתַן" (natan), meaning "to give," underscores God's role in granting Israel the land. 2. God's Sovereignty and Power The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty over nations and kings. The repeated victories over various kings illustrate God's supreme power and control over earthly rulers, as seen in the phrase "the LORD gave" (Joshua 12:6). 3. Historical Record and Remembrance Joshua 12 serves as a historical record of Israel's conquests. The detailed listing of defeated kings serves as a reminder of God's past acts and encourages faith in His continued guidance and provision. 4. Unity and Leadership under Joshua The chapter underscores the unity of the Israelites under Joshua's leadership. His role as a divinely appointed leader is crucial in the successful conquest of the land, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "מָשִׁיחַ" (mashiach), meaning "anointed one." 5. Judgment on Pagan Nations The destruction of the Canaanite kings and their cities represents God's judgment on pagan nations. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "חֵרֶם" (cherem), meaning "devoted to destruction," indicating the complete eradication of idolatry and sin. 6. Inheritance and Possession The chapter outlines the territories that became the inheritance of the tribes of Israel. The theme of inheritance is central, reflecting the Hebrew word "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), meaning "inheritance," which signifies the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham and his descendants. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Faithfulness Thank God for His faithfulness in your life and the victories He has granted. Trust in God's Sovereignty Pray for a deeper trust in God's sovereignty, especially in challenging times. Guidance for Leaders Pray for wisdom and guidance for the leaders in your church and community. Remembrance of God's Works Ask God to help you remember and document His works in your life as a testimony to His faithfulness. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Joshua 12:1–24, how feasible is it that the Israelites defeated and occupied territories ruled by thirty-one kings so quickly without significant recorded losses? 2. Why is there little to no archaeological evidence corroborating the extensive conquests described in Joshua 12:7–24? 3. How do we reconcile Joshua 12’s narrative of total conquest with the later accounts in Judges that indicate some of these areas were still unconquered? 4. Why are certain cities or regions that were allegedly conquered in previous chapters not mentioned in Joshua 12, suggesting possible inconsistencies? 5. In Joshua 12, how did the Israelites maintain control over all these newly seized territories without encountering immediate rebellions or logistical breakdowns? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does this passage illuminate the magnitude of Israel's conquests under Moses and Joshua's leadership? 2. What does the distribution of the conquered land among the tribes of Israel signify? 3. Why do you think the passage specifically mentions the ruling regions of the kings Sihon and Og? 4. The lands of the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites were all conquered. What does this tell us about the dominance of Israel under God's providence? 5. How do the accounts of conquest contribute to our understanding of the Israelites’ relationship with God during this time? 6. How might the Israelites' victories over these kings inspire confidence and faith in God's promises? 7. Considering the conquests mentioned, what might this say about God’s fulfillment of His promises to the Israelites? 8. In what ways can we see God's providence in our own "battles" and "conquests" in life? 9. How does the phrase "So there were thirty-one kings in all" underline the scope and significance of Israel's victories? 10. How can the systematic conquest and division of these lands inform our understanding of God's justice? 11. How can we reconcile these accounts of violent conquest with the image of a loving and merciful God? 12. What can we learn from this narrative about how God equips and empowers His people to accomplish His purposes? 13. In today's context, how might Christians interpret and apply the lessons from the large-scale conquests led by Moses and Joshua? 14. How could these successes of the Israelites under God's command encourage us when facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles? 15. How can this passage inspire us to reflect on the inheritance that God has prepared for His people? 16. How does this narrative demonstrate the consequences of opposing God’s chosen people and, by extension, God Himself? 17. Can we draw parallels between these historical conquests and spiritual "territories" that need to be conquered in our lives today? 18. How does this recounting of victories contribute to the overall narrative of God's faithfulness in the Bible? 19. How can we practically apply the concept of divine guidance in our decision-making process as seen in these conquests? 20. How do these accounts of Israel's victories serve as reminders of God's power and sovereignty when we face challenges in our personal lives or society? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions