Joshua 11:3

to the Canaanites in the east and west; to the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, and Jebusites in the hill country; and to the Hivites at the foot of Hermon in the land of Mizpah.

Study Bible

to the Canaanites in the east and west
The term "Canaanites" refers to the inhabitants of Canaan, a region that encompasses modern-day Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and parts of Syria and Jordan. The Canaanites were known for their polytheistic beliefs and practices, which were in direct opposition to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh by the Israelites. The mention of "east and west" signifies the widespread presence of these people across the land, highlighting the vastness of the territory that the Israelites were to conquer. Historically, the Canaanites were a collection of city-states, each with its own king, which made them formidable opponents.

to the Amorites
The Amorites were a significant group in the ancient Near East, often mentioned in the Bible as one of the peoples inhabiting the Promised Land. The name "Amorite" is derived from the Hebrew root "Amor," which means "to speak" or "to say," possibly indicating their reputation as negotiators or diplomats. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Amorites were originally nomadic tribes who settled in the region and established powerful kingdoms. Their presence in the land posed a significant challenge to the Israelites, as they were known for their military prowess and fortified cities.

Hittites
The Hittites were an ancient Anatolian people who established a vast empire in what is now Turkey and northern Syria. In the biblical context, the Hittites in Canaan were likely smaller groups or colonies that had settled in the region. The Hebrew term for Hittites is "Hitti," which is related to the larger Hittite Empire known for its advanced culture and legal system. The presence of Hittites in Canaan is a testament to the region's cultural and ethnic diversity, as well as the complex political landscape that the Israelites encountered.

Perizzites
The Perizzites are one of the lesser-known groups mentioned in the Bible, often listed among the inhabitants of Canaan. The name "Perizzite" is thought to derive from a root meaning "rural" or "villager," suggesting that they were a people who lived in open country or unwalled villages. This contrasts with the more urbanized and fortified city-states of other Canaanite groups. The Perizzites' way of life would have been significantly different from that of the Israelites, who were transitioning from a nomadic existence to a settled agricultural society.

Jebusites in the hill country
The Jebusites were the original inhabitants of Jerusalem, known in ancient times as Jebus. The "hill country" refers to the mountainous region of central Canaan, which includes Jerusalem. The Jebusites were a Canaanite tribe with a stronghold in this strategically important area. The Hebrew root "Yebus" is associated with "treading down" or "trampling," possibly reflecting their fortified position and resistance to conquest. The eventual capture of Jerusalem by King David marked a significant turning point in Israelite history, establishing the city as the political and spiritual center of Israel.

Hivites below Hermon
The Hivites were another Canaanite group, and their mention "below Hermon" indicates their settlement in the northern part of Canaan, near Mount Hermon. This mountain is a significant geographical landmark, known for its height and snow-capped peaks. The Hebrew root "Chivvi" is related to "villager" or "tent-dweller," suggesting a semi-nomadic lifestyle. The Hivites' location near Hermon placed them in a region of strategic importance, controlling trade routes and access to resources.

in the land of Mizpah
"Mizpah" means "watchtower" or "lookout" in Hebrew, indicating a place of strategic observation and defense. There were several locations named Mizpah in the Bible, each serving as a significant site for gatherings, covenants, or military actions. The land of Mizpah mentioned here is likely a specific area known for its elevated position, providing a vantage point over the surrounding territory. This highlights the strategic considerations in the conquest of Canaan, as controlling such locations was crucial for the Israelites' success.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Canaanites
A group of ancient people living in the land of Canaan, known for their idolatrous practices and opposition to Israel.

2. Amorites
A powerful group of people in the ancient Near East, often mentioned as adversaries of Israel.

3. Hittites
An ancient people who lived in Anatolia and northern Syria, known for their advanced civilization and military prowess.

4. Perizzites
A group of people living in the land of Canaan, often mentioned alongside other Canaanite tribes.

5. Jebusites
The original inhabitants of Jerusalem, known for their stronghold in the city before David's conquest.

6. Hivites
A Canaanite tribe living in the northern regions, particularly around Mount Hermon.

7. Hermon
A significant mountain in the northern part of Israel, often associated with the northern boundary of the Promised Land.

8. Mizpah
A place of gathering and watchtower, often used as a strategic location in biblical accounts.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
The mention of these nations highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Despite the strength and number of these nations, God is sovereign and ensures His plans come to pass.

The Importance of Obedience
Israel's success depended on their obedience to God's commands. This serves as a reminder for believers to trust and obey God's Word, even when facing formidable challenges.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battles against these nations symbolize the spiritual battles believers face today. Just as Israel relied on God's strength, Christians are called to rely on the Holy Spirit in their spiritual warfare.

Separation from Worldly Influences
The command to conquer and not make covenants with these nations underscores the importance of separating from worldly influences that can lead believers away from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the mention of these specific nations in Joshua 11:3 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises made to Abraham?

2. In what ways can the conquest of these nations be seen as a parallel to the spiritual battles Christians face today?

3. How does the command to not make covenants with these nations apply to modern-day believers in terms of maintaining spiritual purity?

4. What can we learn from Israel's obedience or disobedience in dealing with these nations that applies to our own walk with God?

5. How do the events in Joshua 11:3 encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15:18-21
This passage outlines God's covenant with Abraham, promising the land of these very peoples to his descendants, showing the fulfillment of God's promises in Joshua.

Exodus 23:23-24
God promises to drive out these nations before Israel, emphasizing His role in Israel's victories.

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
God commands Israel to conquer these nations and not to make covenants with them, highlighting the need for obedience and separation from idolatry.