Joshua 11:22

No Anakim were left in the land of the Israelites; only in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod did any survive.

Study Bible

No Anakim were left
The Anakim were a race of giants mentioned in the Bible, known for their formidable size and strength. The Hebrew root for "Anakim" is "עֲנָקִים" (Anakim), which is derived from "anak," meaning "neck" or "chain," possibly referring to their imposing stature. Historically, the Anakim were considered a significant threat to the Israelites, as seen in the report of the spies in Numbers 13:33. The complete removal of the Anakim from the land signifies God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to give the Israelites victory over their enemies. This victory is a testament to God's power and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel.

in the land of the Israelites
This phrase emphasizes the territorial inheritance promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The "land of the Israelites" refers to the Promised Land, a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing God's promise and faithfulness. The conquest and settlement of this land were crucial for establishing Israel as a nation under God's rule. The removal of the Anakim from this land underscores the divine mandate for Israel to inhabit and govern the land according to God's laws and purposes.

only in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod
These cities were part of the Philistine pentapolis, located in the coastal region of Canaan. The mention of these cities indicates that while the Anakim were driven out of the central and northern parts of the land, they found refuge in these Philistine strongholds. Archaeologically, these cities have been identified with significant remains, confirming their historical importance. The survival of the Anakim in these areas foreshadows future conflicts between Israel and the Philistines, as seen in the account of David and Goliath, who was from Gath.

did any survive
The survival of the Anakim in these specific locations suggests a partial fulfillment of the conquest. While Joshua and the Israelites achieved significant victories, some remnants of their enemies remained, which would later challenge Israel's faithfulness and reliance on God. This phrase serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual and physical battles that God's people face. It highlights the need for continued vigilance and dependence on God to overcome the remnants of sin and opposition in their lives. The survival of the Anakim in these cities also sets the stage for future narratives in the biblical text, where God's people must continue to trust in His promises and power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Anakim
A race of giants mentioned in the Old Testament, known for their formidable size and strength. They were descendants of Anak and were considered a significant threat to the Israelites.

2. Gaza
A Philistine city located on the southwestern coast of Canaan. It was one of the places where the Anakim remained after Joshua's conquests.

3. Gath
Another Philistine city, famously known as the home of Goliath, the giant defeated by David. It was also a refuge for the remaining Anakim.

4. Ashdod
A major Philistine city, part of the pentapolis, where some of the Anakim continued to live after the Israelite conquest.

5. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites who succeeded Moses and led the conquest of Canaan. His military campaigns were instrumental in fulfilling God's promise to give the land to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Conquest
The removal of the Anakim from the land demonstrates God's control over nations and His ability to fulfill His promises despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Faith Over Fear
The Israelites' initial fear of the Anakim contrasts with their eventual victory, teaching us to trust in God's promises and power rather than be paralyzed by fear.

Incomplete Obedience
The fact that some Anakim remained in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod serves as a reminder of the consequences of incomplete obedience to God's commands.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites faced physical giants, believers today face spiritual battles. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces.

Legacy of Faith
Joshua's leadership and faithfulness set a precedent for future generations, encouraging us to leave a legacy of faith and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the presence of the Anakim in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod teach us about the importance of complete obedience to God's commands?

2. How can the account of the Anakim and their defeat encourage us in facing our own "giants" or challenges today?

3. In what ways does the account of Joshua's conquest of the Anakim connect with the New Testament teachings on spiritual warfare?

4. How can we apply the lessons of faith over fear from Joshua's leadership in our personal and community lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a seemingly insurmountable challenge. How did your faith in God's promises help you overcome it, and how can this experience encourage others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 13:33
This verse describes the initial fear of the Israelites when they first encountered the Anakim, highlighting their reputation as giants and the Israelites' perception of themselves as "grasshoppers" in comparison.

1 Samuel 17
The account of David and Goliath, where Goliath, a descendant of the Anakim from Gath, challenges the Israelites, demonstrating the continued presence and threat of the Anakim lineage.

Deuteronomy 9:1-3
God reassures the Israelites of His power to defeat nations greater and mightier than they, including the Anakim, emphasizing reliance on divine strength rather than human might.