Joshua 1:6

Authorized King James Version

Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

חֲזַ֖ק

H2388

Be strong

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

וֶֽאֱמָ֑ץ

H553

and of a good courage

to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage)

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אַתָּ֗ה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

תַּנְחִיל֙

H5157

shalt thou divide for an inheritance

to inherit (as a (figurative) mode of descent), or (generally) to occupy; causatively, to bequeath, or (generally) distribute, instate

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָעָ֣ם

H5971

for unto this people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

הַזֶּ֔ה

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

הָאָ֕רֶץ

H776

the land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

#11

אֲשֶׁר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#12

נִשְׁבַּ֥עְתִּי

H7650

which I sware

to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)

#13

לַֽאֲבוֹתָ֖ם

unto their fathers

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

#14

לָתֵ֥ת

H5414

to give

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

#15

לָהֶֽם׃

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Joshua. The concept of covenant community reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Joshua Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Joshua chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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