Joshua 6:21

At the edge of the sword they devoted to destruction everything in the city--man and woman, young and old, oxen, sheep, and donkeys.

Study Bible

At the edge of the sword
This phrase signifies the method of execution used by the Israelites, indicating a complete and decisive action. The Hebrew word for "sword" is "חֶרֶב" (chereb), which often symbolizes divine judgment and warfare in the Old Testament. The sword is not merely a weapon but a tool of God's justice, emphasizing the seriousness of the command given to the Israelites. Historically, the sword was a common instrument of war, and its use here underscores the totality of the conquest and the fulfillment of God's promise to deliver Jericho into Israel's hands.

they devoted to destruction
The Hebrew term used here is "חֵרֶם" (cherem), which means to devote something to God by completely destroying it. This concept is rooted in the idea of something being set apart for God, often through destruction, to prevent any contamination of Israel with pagan practices. This act of devotion is not merely an act of violence but a religious act of obedience to God's command, reflecting the seriousness of maintaining purity and holiness among God's people.

everything in the city
This phrase indicates the totality of the destruction commanded by God. The Hebrew word "כֹּל" (kol) means "all" or "everything," emphasizing that nothing was to be spared. This comprehensive destruction was intended to prevent any remnants of idolatry or pagan influence from corrupting the Israelites. It also serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the holiness required by God.

man and woman, young and old
The inclusion of all people, regardless of age or gender, highlights the completeness of the judgment. This reflects the seriousness of sin and the extent of God's command. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such total destruction was not uncommon in warfare, but here it is specifically commanded by God as part of His divine plan. It underscores the idea that sin affects all and that God's judgment is impartial.

oxen, sheep, and donkeys
The mention of livestock indicates that the destruction extended beyond human life to include all living things within the city. This reflects the concept of "cherem," where everything associated with the city was to be devoted to God through destruction. The inclusion of animals underscores the thoroughness of the judgment and the need to remove all potential sources of idolatry or corruption. In a broader theological sense, it serves as a reminder of the cost of sin and the extent of God's holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites, who succeeded Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land. He was responsible for the military campaign against Jericho.

2. Jericho
A fortified city in the Promised Land, known for its strong walls. It was the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were commanded to conquer the land of Canaan.

4. The Canaanites
The inhabitants of Jericho, who were living in the land promised to the Israelites. They were subject to God's judgment due to their idolatry and wickedness.

5. The Ban (Herem)
A divine command to destroy everything in the city as an act of judgment and consecration to God. This was a common practice in ancient warfare, but in this context, it was a specific command from God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' actions in Jericho demonstrate the importance of complete obedience to God's instructions, even when they are difficult or challenging.

Judgment and Mercy
The destruction of Jericho serves as a reminder of God's judgment against sin, but also His mercy in providing a way of salvation, as seen in the account of Rahab.

Faith in Action
The fall of Jericho illustrates the power of faith in action. The Israelites' faith was demonstrated through their obedience and trust in God's plan.

Consecration and Holiness
The concept of the ban (herem) underscores the need for holiness and separation from sin. Believers are called to live consecrated lives, set apart for God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to destroy everything in Jericho reflect God's holiness and justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of obedience seen in Joshua 6:21 to our daily lives?

3. How does the account of Jericho connect to the broader account of God's plan for Israel and the Promised Land?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' faith and trust in God's plan, even when it seemed unconventional?

5. How can we balance the themes of judgment and mercy in our understanding of God's character, as seen in the account of Jericho?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage provides the background for the command to destroy the Canaanite nations, emphasizing the need to avoid idolatry and maintain purity in worship.

1 Samuel 15:3
Similar to the command given to Joshua, Saul was instructed to completely destroy the Amalekites, highlighting the theme of obedience to God's commands.

Hebrews 11:30
This verse references the fall of Jericho as an act of faith, connecting the physical conquest to spiritual obedience and trust in God.