Joshua 11:12

Joshua captured all these kings and their cities and put them to the sword. He devoted them to destruction, as Moses the LORD's servant had commanded.

Study Bible

Joshua captured all these kings and their cities
This phrase highlights Joshua's role as a military leader and the fulfillment of God's promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan. The capture of the kings and their cities signifies the conquest of the northern coalition of Canaanite kings, which is a continuation of the campaign that began in the southern region. This conquest is a testament to God's faithfulness in delivering the land to Israel as promised to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). The cities mentioned were strategically important, and their capture ensured control over the region.

and put them to the sword.
This phrase indicates the complete military defeat and execution of the Canaanite kings and their armies. The phrase "put them to the sword" is a common biblical expression for total destruction in battle. This action was part of the divine judgment against the Canaanites for their idolatry and wickedness, as outlined in Deuteronomy 9:4-5. It also served to prevent the Israelites from being influenced by the Canaanite religious practices.

He devoted them to destruction,
The term "devoted to destruction" (Hebrew: herem) refers to the complete consecration of something to God, often through its destruction. This was a command given to ensure that nothing from the conquered cities would lead the Israelites into idolatry or sin. The concept of herem is seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as in the destruction of Jericho (Joshua 6:17-21). It underscores the seriousness of maintaining purity and obedience to God's commands.

as Moses the LORD’s servant had commanded.
This phrase connects Joshua's actions to the instructions given by Moses, emphasizing continuity in leadership and obedience to God's law. Moses, as the LORD's servant, had received direct commands from God regarding the conquest of Canaan (Deuteronomy 7:1-2). Joshua's adherence to these commands demonstrates his faithfulness and the importance of following divine instructions. This obedience is a key theme throughout the book of Joshua and serves as a model for the Israelites and future generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses. He is tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and executing God's commands.

2. Royal Cities
These are the cities ruled by kings in the land of Canaan. They represent the strongholds of the Canaanite peoples that Joshua and the Israelites are commanded to conquer.

3. Kings
The rulers of the Canaanite cities who opposed Israel. Their defeat signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to the Israelites.

4. Moses
The servant of the LORD who led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Law from God. He commanded the Israelites to conquer the land as part of God's covenant.

5. Devotion to Destruction
This term refers to the complete destruction of the Canaanite cities and peoples as an act of divine judgment and obedience to God's command.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's actions demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when they are difficult or involve significant challenges.

God's Sovereignty and Judgment
The destruction of the Canaanite cities serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His right to execute judgment on nations.

Faith and Leadership
Joshua's leadership is marked by faith in God's promises and commands, setting an example for believers to follow in trusting and leading according to God's will.

The Fulfillment of God's Promises
The conquest of the land is a fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, showing that God is faithful to His word.

The Seriousness of Sin
The complete destruction of the Canaanites underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for holiness among God's people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's obedience to God's command in Joshua 11:12 challenge us in our own walk with God today?

2. In what ways can we see God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises through the events described in Joshua 11:12?

3. How does the concept of "devotion to destruction" in this passage relate to the New Testament teachings on sin and holiness?

4. What leadership qualities of Joshua can we apply in our roles within our families, churches, or communities?

5. How do the events in Joshua 11:12 connect with the broader account of God's plan for redemption throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage outlines God's command to the Israelites to destroy the nations in Canaan completely, which Joshua is fulfilling in Joshua 11:12.

Exodus 23:23-24
God promises to send an angel before the Israelites to bring them into the land and commands them to destroy the inhabitants and their idols.

Hebrews 11:30-31
This New Testament passage highlights the faith of the Israelites in conquering Jericho, connecting the theme of faith and obedience in the conquest accounts.