The Conquest of Canaan, as recorded in the Old Testament, marks a pivotal moment in the history of Israel. Following the death of Moses, Joshua assumes leadership and leads the Israelites into the Promised Land, fulfilling the covenantal promise made by God to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The narrative of the conquest is primarily found in the Book of Joshua, which details the military campaigns and the subsequent division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel.

Divine Mandate and Preparation

The conquest begins with a divine mandate. God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, assuring him of His presence and promising success if the Israelites adhere to the Law given through Moses. Joshua 1:6-7 states, "Be strong and courageous, for you shall give these people the inheritance of the land that I swore to their fathers I would give them. Above all, be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe all the law that My servant Moses commanded you."

Before crossing the Jordan River, Joshua sends two spies to scout the city of Jericho. Their encounter with Rahab, a Canaanite woman who aids them, demonstrates God's providence and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan. Rahab's faith is later commended in the New Testament (Hebrews 11:31).

Crossing the Jordan and the Fall of Jericho

The miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, where the waters are halted to allow the Israelites to pass on dry ground, echoes the earlier crossing of the Red Sea. This event signifies God's continued presence and power among His people. The memorial stones taken from the riverbed serve as a lasting reminder of God's faithfulness (Joshua 4:6-7).

The fall of Jericho is one of the most iconic events in the conquest. Following God's specific instructions, the Israelites march around the city for seven days. On the seventh day, the walls of Jericho collapse after the people shout and the priests blow their trumpets (Joshua 6:20). This victory underscores the theme that success in the conquest is dependent on obedience to God's commands rather than military might.

Central and Southern Campaigns

After Jericho, the Israelites face a setback at Ai due to Achan's sin of taking forbidden items. Once the sin is addressed, God grants them victory over Ai. The central campaign continues with the renewal of the covenant at Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, where the blessings and curses of the Law are recited (Joshua 8:30-35).

The southern campaign is marked by the Gibeonite deception, where the Gibeonites secure a treaty with Israel through subterfuge. Despite the deception, Joshua honors the treaty, and God uses the alliance to bring about a significant victory over a coalition of southern kings. The miraculous event of the sun standing still during the battle at Gibeon (Joshua 10:12-14) further illustrates God's direct intervention in the conquest.

Northern Campaign and Division of the Land

The northern campaign involves a coalition of kings led by Jabin of Hazor. Joshua's forces achieve a decisive victory, effectively breaking the military power of the Canaanite kings (Joshua 11:1-15). The conquest of the land is not complete, as pockets of resistance remain, but the major military objectives are achieved.

The division of the land among the tribes is detailed in Joshua 13-21. This allocation fulfills God's promise and establishes the Israelites in the land. The Levites, as the priestly tribe, receive no territorial inheritance but are given cities and pasturelands throughout the tribes.

Theological Significance

The conquest of Canaan is a complex and often debated topic, particularly regarding the ethical implications of the warfare involved. From a theological perspective, the conquest is seen as an act of divine judgment against the Canaanite nations for their idolatry and moral corruption, as well as a fulfillment of God's promise to Israel. The narrative emphasizes God's sovereignty, faithfulness, and the necessity of obedience to His commands. The conquest also foreshadows the ultimate victory of God's kingdom and the establishment of His people in a place of rest and blessing.