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Joshua 11

23 verses

TL;DR

Joshua, with God’s promise, defeats a coalition of kings at Merom, conquers Hazor, destroys the Anakim, and divides the land among Israel.

Summary

In Joshua 11, the king of Hazor hears of Israel’s victories and rallies a large coalition of Canaanite and Amorite kings, assembling at the waters of Merom. God assures Joshua that the next day these forces will be utterly defeated; Joshua obeys, striking down the enemy, destroying their horses and chariots. He then turns to Hazor, slays its king, burns the city, and wipes out its inhabitants. The campaign continues as Joshua takes every allied city, defeats the Anakim across the mountains, and eliminates them from Israel’s territory except in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod. Finally, he distributes the conquered land to the tribes, completing the conquest promised by Moses. The chapter emphasizes divine intervention, total victory, obedience to God’s command, and the fulfillment of the promised inheritance.

Outline
  1. God promises Israel’s victory over a united coalition at Merom and Joshua obeys
  2. Joshua conquers Hazor, destroys the Anakim, and eliminates remaining enemies
  3. The conquered land is divided among Israel’s tribes, ending the campaign
Themes
Divine promise and interventionTotal conquest and destruction of enemiesObedience to God’s commandDivine justice and judgment
Keywords
JoshuaMeromHazorAnakimdivine promiseconquestland division
People
JoshuaJabin (king of Hazor)Jobab (king of Madon)Moses (as commander)
Places
HazorMeromZidonMisrephothmaimValley of MizpehGibeonHebronDebirAnabGazaGathAshdod
Things
horseschariotsspoilsAnakim
Key Verses
  • Joshua 11:6: God’s promise of victory over the coalition.
  • Joshua 11:10: Joshua’s decision to strike Hazor, the head of the kingdoms.
  • Joshua 11:21: Complete eradication of the Anakim, symbolizing Israel’s total triumph.
  • Joshua 11:23: Divine fulfillment of the land inheritance for Israel.
Questions
  • How does God’s promise affect Israel’s military strategy in this chapter?
  • What is the significance of the complete destruction of the Anakim?
  • In what ways does Joshua’s obedience reflect the broader theme of divine instruction?
  • How is the division of land related to the covenant promises?
  • What does the sparing of Gibeon suggest about Israel’s approach to non-combatants?
Sentiment

positive
The narrative emphasizes divine assistance, successful conquest, and the fulfillment of God’s promises, presenting a triumphant view of Israel’s military campaign.