Old Testament
Joshua 12:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The king of Taanach, one; the king of Megiddo, one.
Compare translations
The king of Taanach, one; the king of Megiddo, one;
What Joshua 12:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 12:21, the text lists two specific kings defeated by the Israelites during their conquest of Canaan: the king of Taanach and the king of Megiddo. This verse is part of a larger section that summarizes the victories of Israel over various kings and their territories. Taanach and Megiddo were significant cities in ancient Canaan, and their kings represented the opposition that Israel faced as they entered the Promised Land. The mention of these kings highlights the military success of the Israelites and God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to give them the land. The repetition of the phrase 'one' emphasizes that each king was a distinct adversary, showcasing the totality of Israel's victories. This verse serves as a reminder of the challenges faced and overcome through faith and divine assistance, reinforcing the theme of God's sovereignty in guiding His people to victory.
How to apply Joshua 12:21 to your life
This verse encourages believers to trust in God's guidance during challenges. Just as the Israelites faced and overcame formidable foes, we can rely on God's strength to confront our own obstacles. Remembering past victories can inspire faith in current struggles.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Joshua 12:21
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Joshua 12:21
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 12:21 mean?
Joshua 12:21 lists the king of Taanach and the king of Megiddo as two of the defeated kings during the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. This verse highlights the military victories of Israel and God's faithfulness in helping them take possession of the Promised Land.
What is the significance of Taanach and Megiddo in Joshua 12:21?
Taanach and Megiddo were important cities in ancient Canaan, representing significant opposition to the Israelites. Their mention in Joshua 12:21 underscores the challenges faced by Israel and the victories achieved through God's assistance.
How does Joshua 12:21 relate to God's faithfulness?
The verse illustrates God's faithfulness by showing how He enabled the Israelites to defeat their enemies, fulfilling His promise to give them the land. It reassures believers of God's support in overcoming challenges.
What can we learn from Joshua 12:21?
Joshua 12:21 teaches that, like the Israelites, we can trust in God's strength to face our own challenges. Remembering past victories can inspire confidence in God's guidance during difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.