What is the meaning of Joshua 13:22? The Israelites also killed “Now the sons of Israel killed…” (Joshua 13:22). • The verse recalls Israel’s earlier campaign east of the Jordan, recorded in Numbers 31:7–8, where the LORD commanded Moses to wage war against Midian. • Their obedience here affirms God’s justice executed through His covenant people (Deuteronomy 7:1–2). • Joshua’s narrative shows that the conquest was not only about land but also about removing spiritual corruption that opposed the LORD (Exodus 23:32–33). Cross references: Numbers 31:7; Deuteronomy 20:16–18; Psalm 149:6–9. the diviner Balaam “…Balaam, the diviner…” • Balaam had once uttered true blessings upon Israel (Numbers 23–24), yet his heart loved the wages of wrongdoing (2 Peter 2:15). • He counseled Moab to seduce Israel into idolatry and immorality (Numbers 31:16; Revelation 2:14). • Calling him “diviner” underscores that he trafficked in forbidden spiritual practices (Deuteronomy 18:10–12). • Joshua singles him out to show that occult influence, however persuasive, cannot withstand God’s holiness. Cross references: Numbers 22:7; Jude 11; Micah 6:5. son of Beor “…son of Beor…” • The Holy Spirit records Balaam’s lineage (Numbers 22:5; 24:15) to identify him precisely. • This reinforces the factual reliability of Scripture—Balaam was a real historical figure, not a myth. • It also reminds readers that spiritual choices, not ancestry, determine one’s destiny (Ezekiel 18:20). Cross references: Numbers 22:5; Joshua 24:9; Nehemiah 13:2. along with the others they put to the sword “…along with the others they put to the sword.” • Balaam died in the same judgment that fell on the Midianite kings (Numbers 31:8). • His alliance with God’s enemies sealed his fate; siding against the LORD always ends in destruction (Psalm 2:12). • The phrase highlights corporate accountability—those who join in rebellion share in its penalty (Proverbs 11:21; Revelation 18:4). • For believers today, it is a sober call to separate from ungodliness and cling to Christ (2 Corinthians 6:14–18). Cross references: Numbers 31:8; Psalm 106:34–39; 1 Corinthians 10:20–22. summary Joshua 13:22 reminds us that God’s judgments are thorough and righteous. Balaam’s spiritual compromise, cloaked in religious language, ended in the same sword that fell on overtly pagan kings. The verse affirms that no occult power, selfish ambition, or alliance with evil can ultimately stand against the LORD. Faithful obedience brings blessing; persistent rebellion brings inevitable judgment. |
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