Old Testament
Joshua 11:20
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It was the LORD who had hardened their hearts to wage war against Israel so that he may destroy them totally, exterminating them without mercy just as the Lord had commanded Moses.
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For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, and that they might have no favour, but that he might destroy them, as the LORD commanded Moses.
What Joshua 11:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 11:20, the text reveals that God played a crucial role in the events leading to Israel's victories over their enemies. It states that the Lord hardened the hearts of the opposing nations, compelling them to engage in battle against Israel. This hardening was part of God's plan to ensure their complete destruction, fulfilling the commands given to Moses. The passage emphasizes God's sovereignty in orchestrating the outcomes of battles and the fate of nations. It suggests that the enemies of Israel were not merely acting on their own volition but were influenced by divine intervention. This raises questions about free will and divine purpose, illustrating how God can use even the hearts of adversaries to achieve His will. The ultimate goal was to eliminate these nations without mercy, highlighting the seriousness of Israel's mission and the consequences of opposing God's chosen people.
How to apply Joshua 11:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of God's control over history and events. In our lives, we may face challenges that seem insurmountable, but we can trust that God is at work, even in difficult situations. We should seek to align our hearts with His will.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
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Moses
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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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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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 11:20 mean?
Joshua 11:20 explains that God hardened the hearts of Israel's enemies to ensure they would fight against Israel. This was part of God's plan to completely destroy these nations, fulfilling the commands given to Moses.
What is the meaning of 'hardened their hearts' in Joshua 11:20?
In Joshua 11:20, 'hardened their hearts' means that God influenced the opposing nations to resist and fight against Israel. This divine action was intended to lead to their total destruction as part of God's judgment.
Why did God harden the hearts of the enemies in Joshua 11:20?
God hardened the hearts of the enemies to ensure they would engage in battle against Israel, which allowed for their complete destruction as part of God's judgment and fulfillment of His commands.
How does Joshua 11:20 relate to the theme of divine sovereignty?
Joshua 11:20 illustrates divine sovereignty by showing that God controls the hearts and actions of nations to achieve His will. It emphasizes that even adversaries can be used by God to fulfill His plans.
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