Old Testament
Joshua 7:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"Get up! Consecrate the people and tell them, 'Purify yourselves for tomorrow, because the LORD, the God of Israel, says: There is something set apart for destruction hidden among you, Israel. You will not be able to stand against your enemies until you remove it.'"
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Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow: for thus saith the LORD God of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.
What Joshua 7:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs Joshua to prepare the Israelites for a significant spiritual cleansing. The people are told to purify themselves because there is something among them that is cursed or set apart for destruction. This hidden sin is preventing them from succeeding against their enemies. The call to consecrate themselves emphasizes the importance of being spiritually clean and ready to face challenges. God makes it clear that they cannot stand against their foes until they deal with this issue. This highlights the connection between spiritual integrity and success in their endeavors. The Israelites must recognize the seriousness of hidden sin and take action to remove it to regain God's favor and strength in battle.
How to apply Joshua 7:13 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of addressing hidden sins in our lives. Just as the Israelites needed to purify themselves to succeed, we must also seek spiritual cleansing and be honest about our shortcomings. Regular self-examination and repentance can help us align with God's will and strengthen our resolve against challenges.
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 7:13
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Key themes
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 7:13 mean?
Joshua 7:13 conveys God's command to the Israelites to purify themselves because there is hidden sin among them that is hindering their success against their enemies. It emphasizes the need for spiritual cleansing before facing challenges.
What is the significance of consecration in Joshua 7:13?
Consecration in Joshua 7:13 signifies the act of setting oneself apart for God's purposes. It highlights the importance of being spiritually clean and prepared to receive God's guidance and support in overcoming obstacles.
What does 'accursed thing' refer to in Joshua 7:13?
The 'accursed thing' in Joshua 7:13 refers to something that is set apart for destruction due to sin or disobedience. It symbolizes hidden sin that must be addressed for the Israelites to regain God's favor and strength.
How does Joshua 7:13 relate to hidden sin?
Joshua 7:13 illustrates that hidden sin can prevent individuals from achieving success and victory. It serves as a reminder that addressing and removing such sin is crucial for spiritual integrity and God's support.
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