Joshua 11:9

Joshua treated them as the LORD had told him; he hamstrung their horses and burned up their chariots.

Study Bible

Joshua did to them
The name "Joshua" is derived from the Hebrew "Yehoshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." Joshua, as the leader of Israel, is a type of Christ, leading God's people into the Promised Land. His actions are not of his own volition but are in obedience to divine command. This phrase emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's directives, a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures. Joshua's leadership is marked by his faithfulness to God's instructions, setting an example for believers to follow God's will in their lives.

as the LORD had commanded him
The phrase underscores the divine authority behind Joshua's actions. The Hebrew word for "commanded" is "tsavah," which implies a direct order or charge. This highlights the theocratic nature of Israel's leadership, where God is the ultimate authority. The LORD's commands are not arbitrary but are rooted in His covenant promises and His desire for Israel to be a holy nation. This obedience to divine command is a call for believers to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, even when His instructions may seem difficult or counterintuitive.

he hamstrung their horses
The act of hamstringing horses, which involves cutting the tendons of the hind legs, rendered the horses useless for battle. In the ancient Near Eastern context, horses and chariots were symbols of military power and might. By disabling the horses, Joshua was ensuring that Israel would not rely on military strength but on the LORD. This act is a powerful reminder of the biblical principle found in Psalm 20:7, "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." It calls believers to place their trust in God rather than in worldly power or resources.

and burned their chariots
Chariots were the tanks of the ancient world, providing a significant advantage in warfare. By burning the chariots, Joshua was eliminating the enemy's military advantage and demonstrating reliance on God's power rather than human ingenuity. This action symbolizes the destruction of worldly dependencies and the commitment to a life of faith. For the Christian, it is a call to destroy any idols or sources of false security, trusting wholly in God's provision and protection.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses. He is known for his obedience to God's commands and his role in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who commands Joshua and the Israelites. His instructions are central to the actions taken by Joshua.

3. Horses and Chariots
Symbols of military power and strength in ancient warfare. The act of hamstringing horses and burning chariots signifies a reliance on God rather than military might.

4. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where these events take place. It is a land filled with various tribes and nations that the Israelites are commanded to conquer.

5. The Canaanite Kings
The opposing forces in this account, representing the pagan nations that stand against Israel and God's purposes.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's actions exemplify complete obedience to God's instructions, even when they defy conventional wisdom. Believers are called to trust and obey God's word, even when it challenges societal norms or personal understanding.

Reliance on Divine Power
The destruction of horses and chariots symbolizes a rejection of reliance on human strength. Christians are encouraged to place their trust in God's power and provision rather than worldly resources or strategies.

Faith in God's Promises
Joshua's leadership and actions are rooted in faith in God's promises to Israel. Believers today are reminded to hold fast to God's promises, trusting in His faithfulness to fulfill them.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battles in Joshua's time can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual warfare. Christians are called to fight spiritual battles with God's guidance and strength, using spiritual weapons rather than worldly ones.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's obedience to God's command in this passage challenge our understanding of success and power in today's world?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of relying on God's strength rather than our own resources in our daily lives?

3. How does the destruction of horses and chariots in Joshua 11:9 relate to the New Testament teachings on spiritual warfare?

4. What are some modern-day "chariots and horses" that we might be tempted to trust in, and how can we shift our reliance to God?

5. How can Joshua's example of faith and obedience inspire us to trust in God's promises, even when the path seems unconventional or difficult?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 17:16
This verse warns against the accumulation of horses, which can be seen as a temptation to rely on military strength rather than God. Joshua's actions align with this command, emphasizing trust in God over human power.

Psalm 20:7
This Psalm contrasts trust in chariots and horses with trust in the name of the LORD. Joshua's obedience reflects this principle, choosing divine guidance over earthly strength.

1 Samuel 15:22
This verse highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice. Joshua's actions demonstrate obedience to God's specific instructions, which is valued above conventional military strategy.