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 Canaanites were the original inhabitants of the land that God promised to the Israelites. They were known for their polytheistic beliefs and practices, which were in direct opposition to the monotheistic worship of Yahweh. The mention of "east and west" indicates the widespread presence of the Canaanites across the region, highlighting the vastness of the land that Israel was to conquer. This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of the conquest, as the Israelites were to take possession of the entire land, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21).

to the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, and Jebusites in the hill country;
These groups were significant inhabitants of the land, each with their own distinct cultures and territories. The Amorites were known for their strong cities and were often seen as formidable opponents (Numbers 13:29). The Hittites were part of a larger empire known for its advanced culture and military prowess. The Perizzites were a rural people, often living in unwalled villages, making them vulnerable to attack. The Jebusites inhabited Jerusalem, a key city that would later become the capital of Israel under King David (2 Samuel 5:6-9). The "hill country" refers to the central mountainous region of Canaan, a strategically important area due to its elevation and defensibility.

and to the Hivites at the foot of Hermon in the land of Mizpah.
The Hivites were another Canaanite group, and their mention here places them in the northern part of the land, near Mount Hermon. This mountain is significant in biblical history, often associated with divine encounters and boundaries (Deuteronomy 3:8-9). The "land of Mizpah" refers to a region known for its watchtowers or lookout points, indicating its strategic importance for surveillance and defense. The inclusion of the Hivites in this list emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the conquest, as the Israelites were to subdue all the peoples of the land, fulfilling God's command to drive out the inhabitants and establish a nation dedicated to Him (Exodus 23:23-24).

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.