Old Testament
Joshua 10:5
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The five Amorite kings—the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon—gathered their armies, went up to Gibeon, and camped there to wage war against it.
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Therefore the five kings of the Amorites, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, the king of Eglon, gathered themselves together, and went up, they and all their hosts, and encamped before Gibeon, and made war against it.
What Joshua 10:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a coalition of five kings from the Amorite cities—Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon—who unite their forces to attack Gibeon. Gibeon had made a peace treaty with the Israelites, which prompted these kings to act against it. This gathering of kings signifies a strategic military alliance, showcasing the seriousness of the threat to Gibeon. The Amorite kings likely viewed the treaty as a betrayal and sought to punish Gibeon for aligning with Israel. This event sets the stage for a significant conflict, illustrating the tensions between the Israelites and the surrounding nations. The verse highlights the importance of alliances in ancient warfare and the consequences of political decisions. It also foreshadows the intervention of God on behalf of the Israelites, as they are drawn into this conflict due to Gibeon's plea for help against the Amorite kings.
How to apply Joshua 10:5 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of standing firm in our commitments, even when faced with opposition. It encourages us to seek help from our allies in times of trouble and to trust in divine support during conflicts in our lives.
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 10:5
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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 10:5 teach about alliances in warfare?
Joshua 10:5 illustrates the significance of alliances in ancient warfare, as the five Amorite kings unite their forces to attack Gibeon. This coalition reflects the strategic importance of military partnerships, showing how collective strength can be mobilized against a common enemy. The verse emphasizes that alliances can be both a source of power and a reason for conflict, especially when political decisions, like Gibeon's treaty with Israel, are perceived as betrayals.
Why did the Amorite kings attack Gibeon?
The Amorite kings attacked Gibeon because Gibeon had formed a peace treaty with the Israelites, which they likely viewed as a betrayal. This coalition of kings sought to punish Gibeon for aligning with Israel, demonstrating the tensions and rivalries that existed among the nations at that time. Their attack signifies the serious consequences that can arise from political alliances and decisions in a hostile environment.
How does Joshua 10:5 relate to divine intervention?
Joshua 10:5 sets the stage for God's intervention on behalf of the Israelites. As Gibeon calls for help against the Amorite kings, the ensuing conflict highlights the theme of divine support in times of trouble. This verse foreshadows how God aids the Israelites in battle, reinforcing the belief that faith and reliance on divine power can lead to victory, even against overwhelming odds.
What lessons can we learn from the conflict in Joshua 10:5?
The conflict in Joshua 10:5 teaches us about the importance of standing firm in our commitments and the potential consequences of our alliances. It encourages us to seek support from trusted allies during difficult times and to remain steadfast in our values, even when faced with opposition. Additionally, it reminds us to trust in divine guidance and assistance when navigating conflicts in our own lives.
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