Joshua 10:26

Authorized King James Version

And afterward Joshua smote them, and slew them, and hanged them on five trees: and they were hanging upon the trees until the evening.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּכֵּ֨ם
smote
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#2
יְהוֹשֻׁ֤עַ
Joshua
jehoshua (i.e., joshua), the jewish leader
#3
אַֽחֲרֵי
And afterward
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#4
כֵן֙
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#5
וַיְמִיתֵ֔ם
them and slew
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#6
תְּלוּיִ֥ם
and they were hanging
to suspend (especially to gibbet)
#7
עַ֖ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
חֲמִשָּׁ֣ה
them on five
five
#9
הָֽעֵצִ֖ים
trees
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#10
וַיִּֽהְי֛וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#11
תְּלוּיִ֥ם
and they were hanging
to suspend (especially to gibbet)
#12
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
הָֽעֵצִ֖ים
trees
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#14
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#15
הָעָֽרֶב׃
until the evening
dusk

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joshua, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Joshua.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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