Topical Bible: Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Intimately Associated With Moses

◄ Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Intimately Associated With Moses ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Joshua, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, is renowned for his role as a leader of the Israelites following the death of Moses. His name, which means "Yahweh is salvation," is rendered in various forms, including Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, and Oshea. Joshua's life and leadership are primarily chronicled in the books of Exodus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, and the book that bears his name, Joshua.

Early Life and Association with Moses

Joshua first appears in the biblical narrative as a young man from the tribe of Ephraim, the son of Nun. He is introduced in Exodus 17:9, where Moses commands him to lead the Israelites in battle against the Amalekites. This early military engagement marks the beginning of Joshua's prominent role as a warrior and leader. His close association with Moses is further highlighted in Exodus 24:13, where he is described as Moses' assistant, accompanying him partway up Mount Sinai.

Role as a Spy

In Numbers 13, Joshua is one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the land of Canaan. Originally named Hoshea, Moses renames him Joshua (Numbers 13:16). Unlike the other spies, Joshua, along with Caleb, brings back a positive report, demonstrating faith in God's promise to deliver the land to the Israelites. This act of faith distinguishes him and Caleb, earning them the unique privilege of entering the Promised Land, as stated in Numbers 14:30.

Leadership and Conquest of Canaan

Following Moses' death, Joshua is appointed as his successor. God commissions him to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, as recorded in Deuteronomy 31:23 and Joshua 1:1-9. The Lord's charge to Joshua emphasizes strength, courage, and adherence to the Law given through Moses. Joshua's leadership is characterized by his unwavering faith and obedience to God.

The book of Joshua details the conquest of Canaan, beginning with the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River (Joshua 3) and the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6). Joshua's military campaigns are marked by strategic brilliance and divine intervention, as seen in the battle of Gibeon, where God causes the sun to stand still (Joshua 10:12-14).

Covenant Renewal and Division of the Land

Joshua's leadership extends beyond military conquests to the spiritual and communal life of Israel. He leads the people in a covenant renewal ceremony at Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, as instructed in Deuteronomy 27 and fulfilled in Joshua 8:30-35. Joshua's commitment to the covenant is further exemplified in his famous declaration, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15).

The latter part of the book of Joshua details the division of the conquered land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Joshua's role in this process underscores his function as both a military leader and a spiritual guide, ensuring the equitable distribution of the land according to God's instructions.

Legacy

Joshua's legacy is one of faithfulness and leadership. His life exemplifies the virtues of courage, obedience, and reliance on God. The book of Joshua concludes with his death at the age of 110, marking the end of an era but leaving a lasting impact on the history of Israel. His account serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises and the importance of steadfast faith.

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Exodus 24:13
And Moses rose up, and his minister Joshua: and Moses went up into the mount of God.
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Exodus 32:17
And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said to Moses, There is a noise of war in the camp.
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Exodus 33:11
And the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.
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