Joshua 6:19

For all the silver and gold and all the articles of bronze and iron are holy to the LORD; they must go into His treasury."

Study Bible

For all the silver and gold
The mention of "silver and gold" here signifies wealth and value. In the ancient Near Eastern context, these metals were not only currency but also symbols of power and divine favor. The Hebrew words for silver (כֶּסֶף, keseph) and gold (זָהָב, zahav) often appear in contexts of offerings and temple treasures, indicating their sacred use. This phrase underscores the idea that all valuable resources ultimately belong to God and should be dedicated to His purposes.

and all the articles of bronze and iron
Bronze and iron were materials of great utility and strength in ancient times. The Hebrew word for bronze (נְחֹשֶׁת, nechoshet) and iron (בַּרְזֶל, barzel) suggest durability and resilience. These metals were used in the construction of tools, weapons, and sacred objects. By including these materials, the text emphasizes that not only precious metals but also practical resources are to be consecrated to God, reflecting a holistic dedication of all aspects of life to divine service.

are holy to the LORD
The term "holy" (קֹדֶשׁ, qodesh) signifies something set apart for a sacred purpose. In the biblical context, holiness is a central attribute of God and anything associated with Him. Declaring these items as "holy to the LORD" indicates their separation from common use and dedication to God's service. This reflects the broader biblical theme that all creation is to be used for God's glory and purposes.

they must go into His treasury
The "treasury" (אוֹצָר, otsar) refers to a storehouse or repository for sacred items. In the context of the Israelite community, this would be a place where resources dedicated to God were kept for use in worship and the maintenance of the tabernacle or temple. This phrase highlights the importance of stewardship and the proper management of resources entrusted to God's people. It serves as a reminder that all we possess is ultimately God's and should be used in accordance with His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites, who succeeded Moses and led the people into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in the conquest of Jericho.

2. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, the first city conquered by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land. Its fall was a significant event demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, chosen to inherit the Promised Land. They are commanded to follow God's instructions precisely during the conquest.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who commands the Israelites to dedicate the spoils of Jericho to Him, signifying His holiness and ownership.

5. The Treasury of the LORD
A sacred place where the consecrated items from Jericho were to be stored, symbolizing their dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Dedication
The items from Jericho were declared holy, signifying that what is set apart for God must be treated with reverence and respect. This teaches us to honor what we dedicate to God in our lives.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' success depended on their obedience to God's specific instructions. This underscores the importance of following God's guidance in our own lives, trusting in His wisdom and timing.

God's Ownership
The command to place the spoils in God's treasury reminds us that everything we have ultimately belongs to God. We are stewards of His resources and should use them for His glory.

Firstfruits and Priorities
By dedicating the first spoils of the Promised Land to God, the Israelites demonstrated their trust and priority in God's provision. We are encouraged to give God the first and best of our resources and time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Joshua 6:19 challenge us to view our possessions and resources today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are obedient to God's commands in our daily lives, similar to the Israelites' obedience in the conquest of Jericho?

3. Reflect on a time when you had to trust God with your resources. How does the account of Jericho encourage you to continue trusting Him?

4. How can we apply the principle of giving God our "firstfruits" in our modern context, and what might that look like practically?

5. Consider the idea of God's ownership over all things. How does this perspective influence your approach to stewardship and generosity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:28
This verse discusses items devoted to the LORD, emphasizing that they are most holy and cannot be sold or redeemed, similar to the items from Jericho.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's rebuke of Saul for not fully obeying God's command highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, paralleling the need for the Israelites to follow God's instructions regarding Jericho's spoils.

Malachi 3:8-10
The concept of robbing God by withholding tithes and offerings connects to the idea of dedicating the firstfruits or spoils to God, as seen in the conquest of Jericho.