Joshua 7:24

Then Joshua, together with all Israel, took Achan son of Zerah, the silver, the cloak, the bar of gold, his sons and daughters, his oxen and donkeys and sheep, his tent, and everything else he owned, and brought them to the Valley of Achor.

Study Bible

Then Joshua, together with all Israel
This phrase emphasizes the unity and collective responsibility of the Israelite community. The Hebrew root for "together" (יַחְדָּו, yachad) signifies a communal action, underscoring the importance of corporate accountability in the eyes of God. Historically, Israel was a covenant community, and the sin of one affected all. This collective movement towards justice reflects the seriousness with which the community upheld God's commands.

took Achan son of Zerah
Achan's identification as "son of Zerah" roots him in a specific lineage, highlighting the personal nature of sin and its consequences. The Hebrew name "Achan" (עָכָן) is associated with trouble or disaster, foreshadowing the outcome of his actions. This personal identification serves as a reminder that sin is not abstract but involves real people and families.

the silver, the cloak, and the bar of gold
These items represent the spoils of war that Achan wrongfully took from Jericho, violating God's command. The Hebrew word for "silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) and "gold" (זָהָב, zahav) often symbolize wealth and temptation. The "cloak" (אַדֶּרֶת, adderet) may have been a luxurious garment, further illustrating the allure of material possessions. This highlights the biblical theme that covetousness leads to spiritual downfall.

his sons and daughters
The inclusion of Achan's family in the punishment reflects the communal nature of sin and its repercussions. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the family unit was seen as an extension of the individual, and thus they shared in both honor and shame. This serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching impact of sin beyond the individual.

his cattle, donkeys, and sheep
These animals represent Achan's wealth and livelihood. The Hebrew term for "cattle" (בָּקָר, baqar) and "sheep" (צֹאן, tson) are often used in the Old Testament to denote prosperity. The destruction of these assets signifies the totality of the judgment against Achan, illustrating that sin can lead to the loss of all earthly possessions.

his tent, and all that he had
The "tent" (אֹהֶל, ohel) symbolizes Achan's dwelling and personal space. In the nomadic culture of ancient Israel, the tent was a central aspect of life, representing one's home and security. The phrase "all that he had" underscores the complete eradication of Achan's legacy, serving as a stark warning of the consequences of disobedience to God.

and brought them up to the Valley of Achor
The "Valley of Achor" (עֵמֶק עָכוֹר, Emek Achor) means "Valley of Trouble," named after the events of this narrative. This geographical location becomes a symbol of judgment and serves as a physical reminder of the cost of sin. In a broader scriptural context, the Valley of Achor is later mentioned in prophetic literature as a place of hope and restoration (Hosea 2:15), illustrating God's redemptive power even in the midst of judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in this account, executing God's judgment.

2. Achan
A member of the tribe of Judah who disobeyed God's command by taking forbidden items from Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat at Ai.

3. Zerah
Achan's father, mentioned to establish Achan's lineage within the tribe of Judah.

4. Valley of Achor
The location where Achan and his family were brought for judgment. The name "Achor" means "trouble" in Hebrew, symbolizing the consequences of Achan's sin.

5. Israel
The collective people of God, who are affected by Achan's sin and participate in the execution of justice.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Achan's account illustrates the severe consequences of disobedience to God. Sin affects not only the individual but the entire community.

Communal Responsibility
The involvement of all Israel in Achan's judgment underscores the collective responsibility to maintain holiness within the community.

The Cost of Disobedience
Achan's actions led to the loss of life and defeat for Israel. This teaches that disobedience to God can have far-reaching and devastating effects.

Repentance and Restoration
While Achan's account ends in judgment, it serves as a warning and a call to repentance, reminding believers of the need for confession and turning back to God.

God's Justice and Mercy
The event in the Valley of Achor is a demonstration of God's justice, but it also sets the stage for future restoration, as seen in Hosea 2:15, where the Valley of Achor becomes a door of hope.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Achan in Joshua 7:24 illustrate the communal impact of individual sin, and how can this understanding affect our actions within our own communities?

2. In what ways does the Valley of Achor serve as both a place of judgment and a symbol of hope in the broader biblical account?

3. How can we apply the principle of communal responsibility in our church or community today, especially in addressing sin and promoting holiness?

4. Reflect on a time when disobedience to God led to negative consequences in your life. How did you experience God's justice and mercy in that situation?

5. How does the account of Achan challenge us to examine our own lives for hidden sins, and what steps can we take to ensure we are living in obedience to God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 13:12-18
This passage outlines the procedure for dealing with idolatry and sin within Israel, emphasizing communal responsibility and purity.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, paralleling Achan's disobedience and its consequences.

Hebrews 12:1
Encourages believers to lay aside every weight and sin, similar to how Israel needed to remove the sin of Achan to move forward.