Joshua

About Joshua

Joshua, originally named Hoshea meaning “salvation,” had his name changed by Moses to Yehoshua (Joshua), meaning “the Lord is salvation,” a name that in Greek became Jesus. He was born in Egypt as a slave but grew up during the Exodus and the years of wilderness wandering.

Joshua first appears in Scripture as a military commander when Moses chose him to lead Israel’s army against the Amalekites at Rephidim. While Joshua fought in the valley, Moses stood on a hill with his arms raised, and Israel prevailed as long as Moses’ arms remained lifted. Through this early test, Joshua proved himself a capable warrior and faithful servant.

Joshua became Moses’ assistant and close attendant, even accompanying him partway up Mount Sinai when Moses received the Law. He was also one of the twelve spies sent to scout the Promised Land of Canaan. While ten spies returned with a fearful report, Joshua and Caleb trusted God and insisted that Israel could conquer the land with the Lord’s help.

The people accepted the negative report and refused to enter Canaan. As a result, God decreed that the entire generation would die in the wilderness during forty years of wandering. Joshua and Caleb alone were promised entry into the land because they followed the Lord wholeheartedly.

As Moses approached death, God commanded him to commission Joshua as his successor before the entire assembly. Moses laid his hands on Joshua, transferring leadership to him. God Himself charged Joshua to be strong and courageous, promising to be with him just as He had been with Moses.

After Moses’ death, Joshua assumed command and prepared to lead Israel across the Jordan River. He sent two spies to Jericho, where they were protected by Rahab, who expressed faith in Israel’s God. When the priests carrying the Ark stepped into the Jordan, God miraculously stopped the river’s flow, allowing Israel to cross on dry ground. Joshua set up memorial stones to commemorate the miracle.

The conquest of Canaan began with Jericho, whose walls fell after Israel marched around the city for seven days, obeying God’s command. Rahab and her family were spared for hiding the spies. The next battle at Ai initially failed because of Achan’s sin, but after judgment was carried out, Israel captured the city through a strategic ambush.

Joshua then built an altar on Mount Ebal and read the Law to the people. Through a series of campaigns, he led Israel in defeating powerful coalitions of Canaanite kings. During one battle, Joshua prayed for the sun and moon to stand still, and God granted this miracle so Israel could complete its victory.

Afterward, Joshua divided the land among the twelve tribes, established cities of refuge, and appointed cities for the Levites. As he grew old, Joshua gathered the nation at Shechem for a covenant renewal. He recounted God’s faithfulness and challenged the people to choose whom they would serve, declaring, “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

Joshua died at the age of 110 and was buried in the hill country of Ephraim. During his leadership and for some time after, Israel served the Lord faithfully. Joshua stands as a model of courageous faith, obedient service, and decisive leadership, having successfully led Israel into the inheritance God promised.