Joshua 11:3
And to the Canaanite on the east and on the west, and to the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Jebusite in the mountains, and to the Hivite under Hermon in the land of Mizpeh.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Each group mentioned had distinct cultural and possibly ethnic identities, though boundaries were fluid. Canaanites generally referred to lowland inhabitants, especially coastal regions. Amorites often designated highland dwellers. Hittites in Canaan were likely remnants or descendants of the Hittite Empire (centered in Anatolia) that had declined by this period. Perizzites and Jebusites are less well understood—possibly original inhabitants or specific clans. Hivites are mentioned in connection with Gibeon (9:7) and this northern region. Mount Hermon's snow-covered peak was Canaan's most prominent landmark, visible from great distances. Mizpeh (meaning 'watchtower') likely refers to the valley below Hermon. The geographic and ethnic comprehensiveness shows this wasn't a hasty alliance but organized coalition representing all major Canaanite powers not yet defeated. Ancient Near Eastern coalition warfare often united diverse peoples against common threats. This alliance's breadth made it formidable—yet God had already promised victory (11:6).
Questions for Reflection
- How does comprehensive opposition (all nations, all regions) actually confirm you're facing the right battle?
- What encouragement comes from knowing the enemies you face are those God promised to defeat?
- How do diverse opponents uniting against God's work mirror spiritual warfare's nature?
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Analysis & Commentary
The ethnic catalog continues: 'Canaanites on the east and west, Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Jebusites in the mountains, and Hivites under Hermon in the land of Mizpeh.' This list shows comprehensive representation of Canaan's peoples—six national/ethnic groups from diverse regions. The Canaanites' presence both east and west shows they inhabited both sides of the Jordan Valley. The Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Jebusites, and Hivites each controlled specific territories, yet now unite against Israel. Mount Hermon (snow-capped peak in far north) and Mizpeh (the valley below) mark the coalition's northern extent. The thoroughness of this census emphasizes that Israel faced essentially all remaining Canaanite power. This united front fulfills Exodus 23:23's prophecy listing nations God would drive out. The very comprehensiveness of opposition validates that Israel faces God's promised enemies, ensuring that victory will clearly be divine, not merely human achievement.