Old Testament
Joshua 22:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Remember what happened when Achan son of Zerah violated the ban on devoted things? God's anger didn't fall on Achan alone — it struck the whole community of Israel. He wasn't the only one who paid for his sin."
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Did not Achan the son of Zerah commit a trespass in the accursed thing, and wrath fell on all the congregation of Israel? and that man perished not alone in his iniquity.
What Joshua 22:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 22:20, the reference to Achan serves as a warning about the consequences of sin. Achan's disobedience in taking forbidden items during the conquest of Jericho led to God's anger not just against him, but against the entire Israelite community. This illustrates the principle that individual actions can have far-reaching effects on others. Achan's sin resulted in defeat in battle and loss of life among his fellow Israelites, highlighting the interconnectedness of the community. The verse emphasizes the seriousness of violating God's commands and the collective responsibility of the people. It serves as a reminder that our choices can impact those around us, and we must be mindful of our actions and their potential consequences for the community as a whole.
How to apply Joshua 22:20 to your life
This verse encourages us to consider how our actions affect others. We should strive to live in a way that honors God and supports our community. By being mindful of our choices, we can help foster a positive environment and avoid negative consequences that may arise from individual wrongdoing.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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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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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 22:20 mean?
Joshua 22:20 highlights the consequences of Achan's sin, showing that his disobedience not only affected him but also brought God's anger upon the entire Israelite community. This verse serves as a warning about the collective impact of individual actions.
What is the significance of Achan in Joshua 22:20?
Achan's story in Joshua 22:20 illustrates how one person's wrongdoing can lead to widespread consequences, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands and the interconnectedness of the community.
What does the phrase 'wrath fell on all the congregation of Israel' mean?
The phrase indicates that God's judgment due to Achan's sin affected not just him but the entire Israelite community, demonstrating that individual sins can have serious repercussions for others.
How does Joshua 22:20 relate to community responsibility?
Joshua 22:20 underscores the idea that individuals within a community share responsibility for each other's actions, reminding us that our choices can influence the well-being of those around us.
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