Old Testament
Joshua 1:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
until the LORD gives your brothers rest, as He has given you, and they also possess the land the LORD your God is giving them. Then you may return to the land of your possession and enjoy it, which Moses the LORD’s servant gave you on this side of the Jordan toward the sunrise.
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Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as he hath given you, and they also have possessed the land which the LORD your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the LORD’s servant gave you on this side Jordan toward the sunrising.
What Joshua 1:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh to help their fellow Israelites conquer the land of Canaan before they can return to their own territory. The emphasis is on unity and shared responsibility among the tribes. Just as God has provided rest and land for them, they must ensure that their brothers receive the same. This reflects the importance of community and support in achieving common goals. The promise of returning to their own land and enjoying it is contingent upon their commitment to assist others. This verse highlights the idea that personal blessings often come after fulfilling obligations to others, reinforcing the value of teamwork and sacrifice for the greater good.
How to apply Joshua 1:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to support others in their struggles before seeking our own comfort. It reminds us that our blessings are often tied to how we help those around us. We should actively participate in our communities and assist others in achieving their goals.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The LORD Speaks to Joshua (Joshua 1:1–18)
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Joshua
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Keep studying Joshua 1:15
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 1:15 mean?
Joshua 1:15 conveys God's instruction to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, emphasizing their duty to help their fellow Israelites conquer Canaan before returning to their own land. It highlights the importance of unity and shared responsibility among the tribes.
What is the significance of 'rest' in Joshua 1:15?
In Joshua 1:15, 'rest' signifies the peace and security that God provides to His people after they have fulfilled their obligations. It underscores the idea that true rest comes after working together to support one another.
What does 'land possession' refer to in Joshua 1:15?
'Land possession' in Joshua 1:15 refers to the territory that God has promised to the Israelites, which they must conquer and claim. It emphasizes the importance of actively participating in God's promises and responsibilities.
How does Joshua 1:15 relate to teamwork?
Joshua 1:15 illustrates the concept of teamwork by showing that the tribes must work together to achieve a common goal before they can enjoy their own blessings. It reinforces the idea that personal success is often linked to collective effort.
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