Joshua 6:26

At that time Joshua invoked this solemn oath: "Cursed before the LORD is the man who rises up and rebuilds this city, Jericho; at the cost of his firstborn he will lay its foundations; at the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates."

Study Bible

At that time
This phrase situates the event in a specific historical context, immediately following the miraculous fall of Jericho. The timing underscores the significance of the pronouncement, as it comes directly after a divine victory, emphasizing the seriousness of the oath. The Hebrew root for "time" (עֵת, 'et) often denotes a specific, appointed moment, suggesting divine orchestration.

Joshua pronounced
Joshua, as the leader of Israel, acts with authority given by God. The Hebrew root for "pronounced" (שָׁבַע, shava) implies a solemn declaration or oath, often invoking divine witness. This highlights the gravity and binding nature of his words, reflecting his role as God's appointed leader.

this solemn oath
The term "solemn oath" indicates a binding promise or curse, invoking God's name as a witness. In Hebrew culture, oaths were sacred and unbreakable, often carrying severe consequences for violation. This underscores the seriousness of the curse and the divine authority behind it.

Cursed before the LORD
The word "cursed" (אָרוּר, arur) in Hebrew signifies being set apart for destruction or misfortune. The phrase "before the LORD" indicates that this curse is not merely a human pronouncement but is sanctioned by God Himself, adding weight and divine authority to the declaration.

is the man who undertakes
This phrase targets any individual who would dare to defy the divine decree. The Hebrew root for "undertakes" (קוּם, qum) means to rise or establish, suggesting an act of rebellion against God's will. It serves as a warning against human pride and disobedience.

to rebuild this city, Jericho
Jericho, the first city conquered in the Promised Land, symbolizes God's power and the fulfillment of His promises. The act of rebuilding it would signify a reversal of God's judgment and a challenge to His authority. The historical and archaeological significance of Jericho as a fortified city further emphasizes the magnitude of this warning.

At the cost of his firstborn
This phrase implies a severe consequence for defying the curse. The loss of a firstborn son, a significant and devastating event in ancient cultures, underscores the seriousness of the curse. It reflects the biblical principle of the firstborn's importance and the high cost of disobedience.

he will lay its foundations
Laying foundations is a metaphor for beginning a significant undertaking. In this context, it signifies the initial act of defiance against God's command. The Hebrew root (יָסַד, yasad) for "lay" suggests establishing something with intent and purpose, highlighting the deliberate nature of the rebellion.

at the cost of his youngest
The repetition of the cost, now involving the youngest child, emphasizes the totality of the curse's impact. It suggests that the defiance will bring about complete familial devastation, reinforcing the warning against challenging God's decrees.

he will set up its gates
Setting up gates signifies completing the construction and fortification of the city. The Hebrew root (קוּם, qum) for "set up" again implies an act of establishment and defiance. This final act of rebellion would result in the fulfillment of the curse, demonstrating the inevitable consequences of opposing God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, who led the conquest of Canaan. He pronounced the curse on anyone who would rebuild Jericho.

2. Jericho
A significant Canaanite city that was the first to be conquered by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land. Its destruction was a pivotal event in Israel's history.

3. The Curse
A solemn oath pronounced by Joshua, invoking divine judgment on anyone who would rebuild Jericho, indicating the seriousness of God's command and the consequences of disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of God's Commands
Joshua's curse on Jericho underscores the importance of taking God's commands seriously. Disobedience can have severe consequences, as seen in the fulfillment of the curse.

The Power of Words
Joshua's pronouncement was not just a human declaration but carried divine authority. Our words, especially those spoken in faith and alignment with God's will, have power.

Faith and Obedience
The fall of Jericho was a result of faith and obedience to God's instructions. Similarly, our victories in life come through trusting and obeying God.

The Consequences of Defiance
Hiel's experience in 1 Kings 16:34 serves as a warning about the cost of defying God's word. It reminds us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions.

God's Faithfulness to His Word
The fulfillment of Joshua's curse centuries later shows that God's word is enduring and reliable. We can trust in His promises and warnings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Joshua's curse on Jericho teach us about the importance of obedience to God's commands?

2. How does the fulfillment of the curse in 1 Kings 16:34 illustrate the reliability of God's word?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our words align with God's will and carry His authority?

4. How does the account of Jericho's fall in Hebrews 11:30 encourage us to live by faith today?

5. What are some modern-day "Jerichos" in our lives that require faith and obedience to overcome, and how can we apply the lessons from Joshua 6:26 to these situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 16:34
This verse records the fulfillment of Joshua's curse when Hiel of Bethel rebuilt Jericho, losing his firstborn and youngest sons, demonstrating the enduring nature of God's word and the consequences of defying it.

Deuteronomy 27:15-26
These verses outline the blessings and curses associated with obedience and disobedience to God's commands, providing a broader context for understanding the significance of Joshua's curse.

Hebrews 11:30
This verse highlights the faith of the Israelites in the fall of Jericho, emphasizing the role of faith in God's promises and commands.