Joshua 7:26

And they heaped over Achan a large pile of rocks that remains to this day. So the LORD turned from His burning anger. Therefore that place is called the Valley of Achor to this day.

Study Bible

And they raised over him a great heap of stones
This phrase signifies a common ancient Near Eastern practice of marking a significant event or burial site with stones. The "heap of stones" served as a memorial and a warning. In Hebrew, the word for "heap" (גַּל, gal) often denotes a pile or mound, symbolizing a permanent reminder of Achan's sin and its consequences. This act of raising stones was not only a burial but also a public declaration of the seriousness of disobedience to God.

that remains to this day
This phrase indicates the enduring nature of the memorial. The phrase "to this day" suggests that the account was written at a time when the heap of stones was still visible, serving as a lasting testament to the events that transpired. It underscores the historical reliability of the narrative and the importance of remembering God's justice and mercy.

So the LORD turned from His burning anger
The Hebrew word for "turned" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a change or reversal. God's "burning anger" (אַף, aph) is a vivid expression of His righteous indignation against sin. The turning away of God's anger signifies reconciliation and the restoration of His favor upon Israel. It highlights the theme of repentance and divine forgiveness, emphasizing that God's wrath is not permanent but can be appeased through obedience and atonement.

Therefore that place has been called the Valley of Achor
The name "Achor" (עָכוֹר) means "trouble" or "disturbance" in Hebrew. Naming the valley "Achor" serves as a perpetual reminder of the trouble Achan brought upon Israel through his sin. It also reflects the biblical theme of naming places to commemorate significant events, reinforcing the moral and spiritual lessons learned.

to this day
Reiterating the phrase "to this day" emphasizes the lasting impact of the events and the memorial's continued presence. It serves as a historical anchor, reminding future generations of the consequences of sin and the importance of faithfulness to God. This enduring reminder calls believers to live in obedience and reverence, acknowledging the seriousness of God's commands and the hope of redemption through His grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. 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.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel who, under God's guidance, led the people in dealing with Achan's sin.

3. Valley of Achor
The location where Achan and his family were punished, symbolizing trouble and later hope for Israel.

4. Israelites
The people of God who suffered defeat due to Achan's sin but were restored after justice was served.

5. Heap of Stones
A physical reminder of the consequences of sin and God's justice, serving as a memorial for future generations.

Teaching Points

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

God's Justice and Mercy
While God's justice required punishment for Achan's sin, His mercy is seen in the restoration of Israel after the sin was addressed.

Memorials of Remembrance
The heap of stones serves as a reminder of past lessons. We should establish spiritual "memorials" in our lives to remember God's teachings and interventions.

Community Responsibility
The Israelites' experience teaches us the importance of accountability within the community of believers. We must support each other in maintaining holiness.

Hope in Redemption
The Valley of Achor, initially a place of trouble, becomes a symbol of hope. God can transform our failures into opportunities for growth and renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Achan in Joshua 7:26 illustrate the impact of individual sin on a community? Can you think of a modern example where this principle applies?

2. In what ways can we create "memorials" in our own lives to remember God's faithfulness and lessons learned from past experiences?

3. How does the transformation of the Valley of Achor from a place of judgment to a symbol of hope encourage you in your personal walk with God?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's justice and mercy in your life. How did it change your understanding of His character?

5. How can the principles of accountability and community responsibility seen in Joshua 7 be applied in your church or small group setting today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 13:17
This passage discusses the importance of removing sin from among the people to turn away God's anger, similar to the events in Joshua 7.

Hosea 2:15
The Valley of Achor is mentioned as a door of hope, showing God's ability to transform places of judgment into places of redemption.

1 Corinthians 5:6-7
Paul speaks about purging sin from the community, echoing the need for purity among God's people as seen in Joshua 7.