Old Testament

Joshua 10:17

Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.

ClearClear Bible Translation

Joshua was informed that the five kings were found hiding in a cave at Makkedah.

Compare translations
KJVKing James Version

And it was told Joshua, saying, The five kings are found hid in a cave at Makkedah.

What Joshua 10:17 means

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Joshua learns that five kings who opposed the Israelites are hiding in a cave at Makkedah. This moment is significant because it shows the consequences of their rebellion against God and His people. The hiding of the kings symbolizes their defeat and fear, as they sought refuge instead of facing the Israelites in battle. This event is part of a larger narrative where God supports Joshua and the Israelites in their conquest of the Promised Land. The discovery of the kings in the cave sets the stage for their eventual capture and punishment, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel. It also highlights the importance of obedience to God, as those who oppose Him ultimately face judgment. This verse serves as a reminder of the power of God in battle and the fate of those who stand against His chosen people.

How to apply Joshua 10:17 to your life

This verse encourages us to trust in God's power when facing challenges. Just as Joshua received guidance about the kings, we can seek God's direction in our lives. It reminds us that opposition to God's will leads to consequences, urging us to align our actions with His purpose.

Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary

Explore more of the Bible

Learn the Bible through its people and places

Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

A painting of Lamech holding his newborn son Noah outside a tent, with a plow and tools lying on the ground nearby

Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)

Meet the people of the Bible

Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.

Noah

An old color photograph of Nablus in a green valley below Mount Gerizim, with people resting on rocks in front.

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.

Explore the places of the Bible

See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.

Shechem

Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.

Get full access with one subscription

Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.

See Plans

Ask AI about Joshua 10:17

Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.

Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter

Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.

Keep studying Joshua 10:17

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 10:17 mean?

Joshua 10:17 describes how Joshua learns that five kings who opposed the Israelites are hiding in a cave at Makkedah. This signifies their defeat and fear, as they sought refuge instead of confronting Joshua and the Israelite army.

What is the significance of the cave in Joshua 10:17?

The cave in Joshua 10:17 symbolizes the hiding and defeat of the five kings who rebelled against Israel. Their attempt to hide reflects their fear and the consequences of opposing God's chosen people.

What does hiding in a cave represent in Joshua 10:17?

Hiding in a cave represents the kings' defeat and their fear of facing the Israelites. It illustrates the consequences of their rebellion against God and His people.

How does Joshua 10:17 relate to God's power?

Joshua 10:17 demonstrates God's power by showing how He leads Joshua to discover the hiding kings, emphasizing that those who oppose Him ultimately face judgment and defeat.

Daily Verse — straight to your inbox

A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.