Old Testament
Joshua 7:11
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Israel has sinned and violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the accursed things, stolen, lied about it, and hidden them among their own belongings.
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Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put it even among their own stuff.
What Joshua 7:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God reveals to Joshua that Israel has sinned by breaking the covenant He established with them. The specific sin involves taking items that were devoted to destruction, which were meant to be set apart and not used for personal gain. This act of stealing and lying indicates a serious breach of trust and obedience to God's commands. The hidden items among their belongings symbolize how sin can infiltrate and corrupt a community, leading to collective consequences. God’s warning serves as a reminder that disobedience not only affects the individual but also the entire nation, highlighting the importance of integrity and accountability in following divine instructions. The verse emphasizes the need for honesty and the dangers of concealing wrongdoing, as it can lead to greater issues within the community.
How to apply Joshua 7:11 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of honesty and integrity in our lives. We should avoid hiding our wrongdoings and instead seek to confess and rectify our mistakes. Acknowledging our faults can lead to healing and restoration, both personally and within our communities.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Defeat at Ai (Joshua 7:1–26)
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Joshua
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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Keep studying Joshua 7:11
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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 7:11 teach about sin and its consequences?
Joshua 7:11 highlights that sin has serious consequences, not just for the individual but for the entire community. In this verse, God informs Joshua that Israel has sinned by breaking the covenant and taking accursed items. This act of disobedience leads to collective repercussions, emphasizing the importance of accountability and integrity within a community. It serves as a reminder that hidden sins can corrupt and affect others, urging us to be honest and rectify our wrongdoings.
How can we apply the message of Joshua 7:11 in our daily lives?
The message of Joshua 7:11 encourages us to practice honesty and integrity. In our daily lives, we should avoid concealing our mistakes and instead seek to confess and address them. Acknowledging our faults can lead to personal healing and strengthen our relationships within our communities. This verse reminds us that our actions have broader implications, and being transparent about our shortcomings fosters trust and accountability.
What does the term 'accursed things' mean in Joshua 7:11?
In Joshua 7:11, 'accursed things' refers to items that were devoted to destruction as part of God's command to Israel. These items were meant to be set apart and not used for personal gain. Taking these items represents a serious violation of God's covenant, illustrating the dangers of disobedience and the importance of adhering to divine instructions. It signifies the need for purity and dedication in following God's will.
Why is accountability emphasized in Joshua 7:11?
Accountability is emphasized in Joshua 7:11 because the sin of one individual can impact the entire community. God reveals to Joshua that Israel's collective disobedience has led to consequences for all. This highlights the interconnectedness of the community and the responsibility individuals have towards one another. It serves as a reminder that we must hold ourselves and others accountable to uphold integrity and obedience to God's commands.
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