Commentary on Joshua 6:21

Joshua 6:21 states, "And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, with the edge of the sword." This verse describes the complete destruction of Jericho by the Israelites after they had successfully taken the city through divine intervention and obedience to God’s commands. The act of destruction raises significant theological, ethical, and historical considerations, explored below using insights from prominent public domain commentaries.

Contextual Background

This event occurs after the Israelites’ entrance into the Promised Land, under Joshua's leadership. The conquest of Jericho is marked by the miraculous collapse of its walls following the Israelites' adherence to God’s unconventional battle plan, which emphasized faith and obedience over conventional warfare strategies.

Theological Insights

• God’s Judgment:

  Matthew Henry emphasizes that the destruction signifies God's judgment against the idolatry and wickedness prevalent in Canaan. The annihilation of all inhabitants reflects the seriousness of divine justice and the consequences of persistent rebellion against God.

• Covenantal Faithfulness:

  Albert Barnes notes that this event exemplifies God’s faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. The destruction of Jericho was a necessary step in fulfilling God's promise to give the land to His people. It illustrates that divine blessings often follow obedience to God's commands.

• Holiness of God:

  Adam Clarke points out that God's holiness is a central theme in this verse. The Israelites were instructed to remove the defilement of the land through destruction, demonstrating that God cannot permit sin to dwell perpetually within His promised inheritance.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

• Understanding Divine Commands:

  Matthew Henry asserts that while the command to destroy seems harsh, it reminds believers of the necessity of complete separation from sin. The act of judgment serves to teach important lessons regarding the seriousness of spiritual commitment and the perils of spiritual compromise.

• Human Life and Divine Will:

  Albert Barnes discusses the moral implications of warfare in the biblical context, suggesting that the actions were taken under divine instruction. This distinguishes them from ordinary human warfare. The judgment is portrayed as divinely ordained, raising poignant questions about moral absolutism and God’s sovereignty.

• Lessons on Disobedience:

  Adam Clarke emphasizes that the destruction of Jericho should serve as a warning of the consequences of disobedience to God. The complete annihilation of Jericho's inhabitants symbolizes the fate of those who reject God’s ways, reinforcing the importance of obedience within the covenant community.

Applications for Modern Readers

• Faith and Obedience:

  This narrative challenges contemporary readers to consider their own faith and obedience in their spiritual journey. Just as the Israelite's success depended on their adherence to God’s instructions, modern believers are called to exercise faith in God’s guidance and commands.

• Understanding God’s Justice:

  The total destruction prompts reflection on divine justice and mercy. While God’s judgment may be difficult to grasp, it exemplifies the necessity of confronting sin for the sake of holiness and divine order. Pastors and theologians can use this to discuss themes of accountability and repentance in their teachings.

• Spiritual Warfare:

  Believers are reminded that spiritual warfare, often encompassing struggles against sin and temptation, requires a decisive and uncompromising stance. This verse serves as a metaphor for the need to ‘destroy’ sin in one’s life, promoting a stronger reliance on God’s power for victory.

Conclusion

In summary, Joshua 6:21 encapsulates profound theological truths concerning God's nature, justice, and the seriousness of covenantal commitment. The complete destruction of Jericho serves as a pivotal moment not only in biblical history but in the ongoing narrative of redemption, showcasing God’s fidelity to His promises amid stark realizations about sin, obedience, and divine sovereignty. As pastors, students, and theologians engage with this text, they are invited to explore the complex interactions of divine command and human understanding, wrestling with its implications for faith, ethics, and spiritual maturity.