Topical Bible: Stoning: Stoning: Achan

◄ Stoning: Stoning: Achan ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Stoning, a form of capital punishment in ancient Israel, was employed for various offenses as prescribed by Mosaic Law. One of the most notable instances of stoning in the Old Testament involves Achan, whose account is recounted in the Book of Joshua.

Biblical Context

The account of Achan is found in Joshua 7. After the miraculous victory at Jericho, the Israelites were commanded by God to devote the entire city to destruction, taking none of the spoils for themselves. However, Achan, a member of the tribe of Judah, disobeyed this command. He secretly took a beautiful robe from Shinar, two hundred shekels of silver, and a bar of gold weighing fifty shekels, hiding them in his tent (Joshua 7:21).

Divine Judgment and Discovery

Achan's sin had severe consequences for the Israelites. When they attempted to conquer the city of Ai, they were defeated, and thirty-six men lost their lives. Joshua, the leader of Israel, sought the Lord's guidance, and God revealed that Israel had sinned by taking some of the devoted things. The Lord declared, "Israel has sinned; they have transgressed My covenant that I commanded them. They have taken some of what is devoted; they have stolen, lied, and put these things with their own possessions" (Joshua 7:11).

To identify the transgressor, Joshua followed God's instructions to bring the tribes, clans, and families before Him. The lot fell on Achan, who confessed his sin when confronted by Joshua (Joshua 7:19-20).

The Punishment of Stoning

The punishment for Achan's transgression was severe and communal. Joshua, along with all Israel, took Achan, the stolen items, his sons and daughters, his cattle, donkeys, sheep, tent, and all that he had to the Valley of Achor. There, Achan and his family were stoned to death, and their bodies were burned with fire. A great heap of stones was raised over Achan as a lasting memorial of the event (Joshua 7:24-26).

Theological Significance

The stoning of Achan underscores the seriousness with which God viewed the covenant and the necessity of holiness among His people. Achan's sin was not merely a personal failing but a breach of the communal covenant with God, affecting the entire nation. This event highlights the principle that sin has corporate consequences and that obedience to God's commands is paramount.

The account of Achan serves as a sobering reminder of the holiness required by God and the severe repercussions of disobedience. It illustrates the justice of God in dealing with sin and the importance of communal purity in the covenant community.

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Joshua 7:25
And Joshua said, Why have you troubled us? the LORD shall trouble you this day. And all Israel stoned him with stones, and burned them with fire, after they had stoned them with stones.
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