Old Testament
Joshua 10:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
All the people returned safely to Joshua at the camp in Makkedah, and no one spoke against the children of Israel.
Compare translations
And all the people returned to the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in peace: none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel.
What Joshua 10:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, after a significant battle, all the people returned to their camp with Joshua at Makkedah. The phrase 'no one spoke against the children of Israel' indicates a moment of unity and peace among the Israelites. It highlights that despite the challenges they faced, they were able to come together without dissent or conflict. This reflects the importance of community and support during difficult times. The absence of criticism suggests that the people recognized the divine support they had received in their victory, fostering a sense of respect and solidarity among them. This moment serves as a reminder of the power of collective strength and the importance of standing together in faith and purpose, especially after overcoming adversity.
How to apply Joshua 10:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to foster unity and peace within our communities. After overcoming challenges, it is vital to support one another and refrain from criticism. By promoting a spirit of respect and solidarity, we can strengthen our bonds and face future challenges together with confidence.
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.

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

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 PlansAsk AI about Joshua 10:21
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 10:21
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 10:21 teach about community support?
Joshua 10:21 emphasizes the importance of unity and support within a community, especially after facing challenges. The verse illustrates how the Israelites returned to their camp in peace, highlighting that they stood together without dissent. This teaches us that fostering a spirit of cooperation and respect can strengthen our bonds and help us navigate future difficulties.
How can we apply the message of Joshua 10:21 in our lives?
The message of Joshua 10:21 can be applied by encouraging unity and peace in our relationships and communities. After overcoming obstacles, it's essential to support one another and avoid criticism. By promoting respect and solidarity, we can create a stronger community that is better equipped to face challenges together.
What does 'none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel' mean?
The phrase 'none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel' signifies a moment of harmony and respect among the Israelites. It indicates that, despite their struggles, they chose not to criticize or speak ill of one another, reflecting a collective acknowledgment of their shared faith and divine support in their victory.
Why is the context of Joshua 10:21 important?
The context of Joshua 10:21 is crucial as it follows a significant battle where the Israelites experienced divine intervention. Understanding this context highlights the importance of their unity and peace after a challenging time, reinforcing the idea that overcoming adversity can lead to stronger community ties and a deeper sense of respect among individuals.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.