Old Testament
Joshua 10:6
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The men of Gibeon sent a message to Joshua at the camp in Gilgal, saying, 'Do not abandon your servants; come quickly to save and help us, for all the kings of the Amorites living in the mountains have gathered against us.'
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And the men of Gibeon sent unto Joshua to the camp to Gilgal, saying, Slack not thy hand from thy servants; come up to us quickly, and save us, and help us: for all the kings of the Amorites that dwell in the mountains are gathered together against us.
What Joshua 10:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the men of Gibeon urgently reach out to Joshua, who is camped at Gilgal, asking for his help. They express their fear and desperation as they face a coalition of Amorite kings who have united against them. Gibeon, having made a peace treaty with Israel, seeks Joshua's protection, highlighting their reliance on him and the Israelite army. This plea illustrates the seriousness of their situation and the need for immediate assistance. The phrase 'Slack not thy hand from thy servants' emphasizes their expectation that Joshua will not abandon them in their time of need. This moment reflects the themes of loyalty, the importance of alliances, and the challenges faced by the Israelites as they conquer the Promised Land. It also sets the stage for the ensuing battle, showcasing the interconnectedness of the Israelite tribes and their allies in the face of opposition.
How to apply Joshua 10:6 to your life
In times of crisis, we should not hesitate to seek help from those we trust. Just as the Gibeonites reached out to Joshua, we can turn to our community and faith for support. Building strong relationships can provide strength during difficult times.
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 10:6
Related Bible verses
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 10:6 teach about seeking help?
Joshua 10:6 illustrates the importance of reaching out for assistance in times of crisis. The Gibeonites, facing a dire threat from the Amorite kings, urgently call upon Joshua for help. This teaches us that it is vital to seek support from trusted allies during challenging situations, emphasizing the value of community and relationships.
Why did the Gibeonites ask Joshua for help?
The Gibeonites sought Joshua's help because they were in a precarious situation, surrounded by the kings of the Amorites who had united against them. Having made a peace treaty with Israel, they relied on Joshua and the Israelite army for protection, highlighting their dependence on the alliance for survival.
What does 'Slack not thy hand from thy servants' mean?
The phrase 'Slack not thy hand from thy servants' expresses the Gibeonites' urgent plea for Joshua to remain committed to helping them. It signifies their expectation that Joshua would not abandon them in their time of need, reinforcing the themes of loyalty and the responsibility of leaders to protect their allies.
How does Joshua 10:6 relate to the theme of divine assistance?
In Joshua 10:6, the Gibeonites' call for help can be seen as a reflection of their faith in divine assistance through Joshua. Their plea not only highlights their immediate need for military support but also underscores the belief that God works through leaders and communities to provide aid and deliverance in times of trouble.
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