Old Testament
Joshua 11:11
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They struck down everyone in the city with the sword, completely destroying them. No one was left alive, and they burned Hazor with fire.
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And they smote all the souls that were therein with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying them: there was not any left to breathe: and he burnt Hazor with fire.
What Joshua 11:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 11:11, the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, attacked the city of Hazor. They used swords to kill everyone in the city, ensuring that no one survived. After the battle, they set the city on fire, completely destroying it. This act was part of their campaign to take control of the Promised Land, fulfilling God's command to eliminate the inhabitants who were seen as corrupt and idolatrous. The total destruction of Hazor symbolizes the seriousness of God's judgment against sin and the importance of obedience to His directives. The Israelites' actions reflect the harsh realities of ancient warfare and the lengths they went to secure their future in the land promised to them. This passage illustrates the themes of divine judgment, the consequences of sin, and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.
How to apply Joshua 11:11 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's commands in our lives. Just as the Israelites were called to remove evil influences, we too should strive to eliminate negative influences and behaviors that hinder our relationship with God. It encourages us to take decisive action against sin.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Joshua 11:11
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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 11:11 teach about divine judgment?
Joshua 11:11 illustrates God's judgment against the inhabitants of Hazor, emphasizing that their actions were seen as corrupt and idolatrous. The complete destruction of the city serves as a warning about the consequences of sin and disobedience to God. It highlights the seriousness with which God views sin and the lengths to which He will go to uphold His justice.
Why did the Israelites destroy Hazor completely?
The Israelites destroyed Hazor completely as part of their campaign to take control of the Promised Land, following God's command to eliminate the corrupt inhabitants. This act was meant to prevent the influence of evil and idolatry from corrupting the Israelites, ensuring they could establish a society that honored God.
How can we apply Joshua 11:11 to our lives today?
Joshua 11:11 encourages us to take decisive action against negative influences in our lives. Just as the Israelites were called to remove evil, we should strive to eliminate behaviors and influences that hinder our relationship with God. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the need to confront sin actively.
What does the burning of Hazor symbolize in this verse?
The burning of Hazor symbolizes the total destruction of sin and evil. It represents God's judgment and the seriousness of His commands. By destroying the city, the Israelites demonstrated their commitment to following God's directives and establishing a land free from corrupt influences, which is a key theme in their conquest of the Promised Land.
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