Topical Encyclopedia
Joshua, originally named Hoshea (meaning "salvation"), was the son of Nun from the tribe of Ephraim. Moses renamed him Joshua, which means "The LORD is salvation" (
Numbers 13:16). He is a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his role as the leader of the Israelites following the death of Moses. Joshua is celebrated for his unwavering faith, military prowess, and obedience to God's commands.
Role and LeadershipJoshua first appears in the biblical narrative as a military leader, commanding the Israelites in their battle against the Amalekites (
Exodus 17:9-13). He was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan and, along with Caleb, was one of the two who brought back a positive report, encouraging the Israelites to trust in God's promise (
Numbers 14:6-9).
After Moses' death, Joshua was appointed by God to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. His leadership is marked by the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, the fall of Jericho, and the subsequent conquest of Canaan. Joshua's faithfulness to God's instructions is evident throughout his life, as he consistently sought divine guidance and adhered to the Law given through Moses.
List of the Kings Whom Joshua Struck DownThe Book of Joshua provides a detailed account of the kings and territories conquered under Joshua's leadership. These victories were instrumental in establishing the Israelites in the land promised to their forefathers. The following is a list of the kings whom Joshua struck down, as recorded in
Joshua 12:9-24 :
1. The king of Jericho
2. The king of Ai, near Bethel
3. The king of Jerusalem
4. The king of Hebron
5. The king of Jarmuth
6. The king of Lachish
7. The king of Eglon
8. The king of Gezer
9. The king of Debir
10. The king of Geder
11. The king of Hormah
12. The king of Arad
13. The king of Libnah
14. The king of Adullam
15. The king of Makkedah
16. The king of Bethel
17. The king of Tappuah
18. The king of Hepher
19. The king of Aphek
20. The king of Lasharon
21. The king of Madon
22. The king of Hazor
23. The king of Shimron-meron
24. The king of Achshaph
25. The king of Taanach
26. The king of Megiddo
27. The king of Kedesh
28. The king of Jokneam in Carmel
29. The king of Dor in Naphath-dor
30. The king of Goiim in Gilgal
31. The king of Tirzah
These conquests were not merely military victories but were seen as acts of divine judgment against the Canaanite nations, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham and his descendants. Joshua's campaigns were characterized by strategic brilliance and a reliance on God's guidance, as seen in the miraculous events that accompanied many of these battles.
LegacyJoshua's legacy is one of faithfulness and dedication to God's covenant. His leadership established the Israelites in the land of Canaan, setting the stage for the future development of the nation of Israel. The Book of Joshua concludes with his famous exhortation to the people: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (
Joshua 24:15), a testament to his enduring commitment to God.
Nave's Topical Index
Joshua 12:1Now these are the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon to mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east:
Nave's Topical Index
Resources
Does God's promise to Joshua and Israel in Joshua 1:9 apply to us? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Joshua in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgSummary of the Book of Joshua - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgJoshua: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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