The theme of conquests and settlements is a significant aspect of the biblical narrative, particularly in the Old Testament. It primarily revolves around the Israelites' journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, their military campaigns to conquer it, and the subsequent division and settlement of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel.

Conquests

The conquests begin with the leadership of Moses and continue under Joshua. After the Exodus from Egypt, the Israelites wander in the wilderness for forty years due to their disobedience and lack of faith (Numbers 14:33-34). During this period, they engage in several battles, notably against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-16) and the kings Sihon and Og (Numbers 21:21-35).

The primary phase of conquest occurs under Joshua's leadership. God commands Joshua to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into Canaan, promising, "Every place where the sole of your foot will tread, I have given you, as I promised to Moses" (Joshua 1:3). The conquest begins with the miraculous fall of Jericho, where the walls collapse after the Israelites march around the city for seven days (Joshua 6:1-20).

Following Jericho, the Israelites capture Ai (Joshua 8:1-29) and enter into a series of campaigns against various Canaanite coalitions. The southern campaign includes victories over the Amorite kings (Joshua 10:1-43), while the northern campaign sees the defeat of a coalition led by Jabin, king of Hazor (Joshua 11:1-15). The Bible records that Joshua took the entire land, as the LORD had instructed Moses (Joshua 11:23).

Settlements

After the conquests, the land is divided among the twelve tribes of Israel. This division is detailed in the book of Joshua, chapters 13-21. The tribes receive their inheritance by lot, as commanded by God through Moses (Numbers 26:52-56). The Levites, however, do not receive a territorial inheritance; instead, they are given cities and surrounding pasturelands throughout the tribes (Joshua 21:1-42).

The settlement process involves not only the allocation of land but also the establishment of cities of refuge (Joshua 20:1-9) and the reaffirmation of the covenant at Shechem (Joshua 24:1-28). The cities of refuge serve as places where individuals who have killed someone unintentionally can seek asylum until a fair trial is conducted.

Despite the successful conquests, the Israelites do not fully drive out all the inhabitants of the land, as God had commanded (Judges 1:27-36). This incomplete obedience leads to ongoing conflicts and influences from the remaining Canaanite populations, which become a recurring theme in the book of Judges.

Theological Significance

The conquests and settlements are not merely historical events but carry deep theological significance. They demonstrate God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land (Genesis 12:7, 26:3, 28:13). The narrative underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience.

Moreover, the conquests are seen as acts of divine judgment against the Canaanite nations for their idolatry and wickedness (Deuteronomy 9:4-5). The Israelites are instruments of God's justice, and their success is attributed to His power and presence among them, as emphasized in Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" .

The settlement of the land establishes Israel as a nation with a defined territory, setting the stage for the subsequent history of the Israelites, including the establishment of the monarchy and the building of the Temple in Jerusalem.