Old Testament
Joshua 10:40
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Joshua struck down the entire region—the hill country, the southern area, the valleys, and the springs—along with all their kings. He left no survivors, completely destroying everything that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel had commanded.
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So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the vale, and of the springs, and all their kings: he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded.
What Joshua 10:40 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joshua is depicted as carrying out a divine command to conquer a specific region in Canaan. The text emphasizes the totality of the destruction, indicating that Joshua did not spare anyone or anything that lived. This act was in obedience to the instructions given by the LORD God of Israel. The mention of various geographical features—hills, valleys, and springs—highlights the comprehensive nature of the conquest, suggesting that no part of the land was left untouched. This reflects the seriousness of the Israelites' mission to claim the Promised Land and the importance of following God's directives without compromise. The complete destruction serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God and the seriousness of His commands. It also illustrates the theme of divine judgment against nations that opposed Israel, reinforcing the idea that God was actively involved in the affairs of His people during this time.
How to apply Joshua 10:40 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider our own obedience to God's commands. Just as Joshua acted decisively, we are called to follow God's guidance in our lives. It reminds us that partial obedience is not enough; we must fully commit to what God asks of us, trusting in His plan.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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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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Keep studying Joshua 10:40
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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 10:40 mean?
Joshua 10:40 describes how Joshua obeyed God's command to conquer a region in Canaan, completely destroying everything that lived there. This act of total destruction emphasizes the seriousness of following God's directives.
What is the significance of the total destruction in Joshua 10:40?
The total destruction in Joshua 10:40 signifies God's judgment against nations that opposed Israel and highlights the importance of complete obedience to God's commands.
What geographical features are mentioned in Joshua 10:40?
Joshua 10:40 mentions hills, valleys, and springs, indicating the comprehensive nature of the conquest and that no part of the land was left untouched.
How does Joshua 10:40 relate to obedience to God?
Joshua 10:40 illustrates that obedience to God requires total commitment, as Joshua left no survivors in his conquest, reflecting the seriousness of following God's instructions.
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