Topical Bible: Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Conquers Hazor

◄ Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Conquers Hazor ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

Joshua, known also as Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, and Oshea, is a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, renowned for his leadership of the Israelites following the death of Moses. As the successor to Moses, Joshua is tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, a mission that involves a series of military campaigns against the Canaanite kingdoms. One of the most significant of these campaigns is the conquest of Hazor, a powerful Canaanite city-state.

Background

Joshua's original name was Oshea, meaning "salvation," but Moses renamed him Joshua, meaning "The LORD is salvation" (Numbers 13:16). This change signifies Joshua's role as a divinely appointed leader who would bring the Israelites into the land promised to their forefathers. Joshua's leadership is characterized by his unwavering faith in God and his commitment to the covenant established at Sinai.

The Conquest of Hazor

The conquest of Hazor is detailed in the Book of Joshua, specifically in chapter 11. Hazor was a significant Canaanite city, described as "the head of all those kingdoms" (Joshua 11:10). Its king, Jabin, formed a coalition with other northern kings to resist the Israelite advance.

Divine Command and Strategy

The LORD commanded Joshua to engage in battle with the northern coalition, assuring him of victory: "Do not be afraid of them, for by this time tomorrow I will deliver all of them slain before Israel" (Joshua 11:6). Joshua's strategy involved a surprise attack at the waters of Merom, where he caught the coalition off guard. The LORD's promise of victory was fulfilled as the Israelites defeated the Canaanite forces.

Destruction of Hazor

Following the victory at Merom, Joshua turned his attention to Hazor itself. The city was captured, and its king was executed. Joshua 11:11 states, "They struck down everyone in it with the sword, devoting them to destruction. Not a single person was left, and Hazor was burned." This act of total destruction was in accordance with the LORD's command to eliminate the Canaanite influence and prevent the Israelites from adopting their idolatrous practices.

Significance

The conquest of Hazor is significant for several reasons. It demonstrates Joshua's obedience to God's commands and his role as a divinely appointed leader. The victory also serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites. By conquering Hazor, Joshua effectively dismantled a major Canaanite power, paving the way for the Israelites to settle in the northern regions of the Promised Land.

Legacy

Joshua's conquest of Hazor is a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Israelite settlement in Canaan. It underscores the themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention that permeate the Book of Joshua. The fall of Hazor is a testament to the LORD's sovereignty and His commitment to His covenant people, as He leads them to establish a nation set apart for His purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 11:1
And it came to pass, when Jabin king of Hazor had heard those things, that he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph,
Nave's Topical Index