Old Testament
Joshua 10:11
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As they fled from Israel and went down to Beth-horon, the LORD threw large stones from heaven on them all the way to Azekah, and they died. More died from the hailstones than those killed by the Israelites with the sword.
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And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword.
What Joshua 10:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a dramatic moment during the Israelite conquest of Canaan. As the enemy was fleeing from the Israelites, God intervened by sending large hailstones from the sky, which caused more casualties than the Israelites did with their swords. This event highlights God's power and involvement in the battle, showing that He can use natural phenomena to achieve His purposes. The hailstones served as a divine weapon against the enemies of Israel, emphasizing that victory comes from God rather than human strength. This moment also illustrates the theme of divine justice, as those opposing God's people faced severe consequences. The mention of the specific locations, Beth-horon and Azekah, adds historical context to the event, grounding it in a real geographical setting. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to protect and deliver His people in times of need.
How to apply Joshua 10:11 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's power during our struggles. Just as He intervened for the Israelites, we can rely on Him to fight our battles. It reminds us that our strength comes from faith in God, not just our own efforts.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Sun Stands Still (Joshua 10:1–15)
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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 10:11
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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 10:11 mean?
Joshua 10:11 describes a moment during the Israelite conquest of Canaan where God sent hailstones from heaven to defeat the fleeing enemies. This shows God's direct intervention in battles, emphasizing His power and the idea that victory comes from Him.
What is the significance of hailstones in Joshua 10:11?
The hailstones in Joshua 10:11 represent God's divine intervention and serve as a weapon against Israel's enemies. This event illustrates that God can use natural elements to fulfill His purposes and protect His people.
What locations are mentioned in Joshua 10:11?
Joshua 10:11 mentions Beth-horon and Azekah, which are geographical locations relevant to the battle. These places provide historical context and help ground the event in a real setting.
How does Joshua 10:11 relate to trusting God?
Joshua 10:11 encourages believers to trust in God's power during difficult times, as He intervened for the Israelites. It serves as a reminder that faith in God can lead to victory, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.
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