Old Testament
Joshua 1:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Be strong and courageous, for you will divide the land among these people as their inheritance, the land I promised to give to their ancestors.
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Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.
What Joshua 1:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God is encouraging Joshua as he prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. The command to be 'strong and courageous' emphasizes the importance of bravery and determination in fulfilling God's mission. Joshua is reminded that he has a significant role in dividing the land among the people, which is a fulfillment of God's promise to their ancestors. This assurance of divine support is crucial for Joshua, as he faces the challenges of leadership and the task of conquering new territories. The phrase 'the land I promised' highlights God's faithfulness to His covenant, reinforcing that the inheritance is not just a reward but a part of God's plan for His people. This encouragement serves as a reminder that with God's guidance, one can face daunting tasks with confidence and strength.
How to apply Joshua 1:6 to your life
When facing challenges in our lives, we can draw strength from God's promises. Like Joshua, we are called to be courageous in pursuing our goals and responsibilities. Trusting in God's guidance helps us overcome fear and uncertainty, enabling us to fulfill our purpose with confidence.
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 1:6
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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 1:6 mean?
Joshua 1:6 means that God is encouraging Joshua to be strong and courageous as he leads the Israelites into the Promised Land. It highlights Joshua's important role in dividing the land among the people, fulfilling God's promise to their ancestors.
What is the significance of being strong and courageous in Joshua 1:6?
Being strong and courageous in Joshua 1:6 emphasizes the need for bravery and determination in fulfilling God's mission. It reassures Joshua that he can face challenges with confidence, knowing he has divine support.
What does 'divide the land' mean in Joshua 1:6?
'Divide the land' in Joshua 1:6 refers to Joshua's task of distributing the Promised Land among the Israelite tribes as their inheritance. This act is a fulfillment of God's promise to give the land to their ancestors.
How does Joshua 1:6 relate to God's promises?
Joshua 1:6 relates to God's promises by reminding Joshua that the land he is to divide is part of God's covenant with the Israelites. It reinforces the idea that God's faithfulness ensures the fulfillment of His promises to His people.
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