Joshua 12:11
The king of Jarmuth, one; the king of Lachish, one;
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
Lachish (Tell ed-Duweir) is one of the most extensively excavated sites in Israel. Massive destruction layers from Late Bronze Age confirm violent conquest. The Lachish Letters (later period) and Assyrian siege reliefs (701 BC) demonstrate the city's ongoing military importance. Jarmuth (Khirbet Yarmuk) controlled the Sorek Valley approach to the highlands.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the coalition of kings against Gibeon (who sought peace) illustrate worldly hostility toward those who align with God's people?
- What does Lachish's later descent into idolatry (Micah 1:13) teach about the difference between military victory and sustained spiritual faithfulness?
- How should individual accountability ('one' after each king) inform your understanding of corporate and personal judgment?
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Analysis & Commentary
The king of Jarmuth, one; the king of Lachish, one—Both cities joined the southern coalition that attacked Gibeon, prompting Joshua's all-night march and the famous sun-standing-still miracle (Joshua 10:3-14). Jarmuth (Yarmut, יַרְמוּת) was a fortified Amorite city in the Shephelah lowlands. Lachish (Lakhish, לָכִישׁ) was Canaan's second most important city after Jerusalem—a massive fortress guarding approaches from the coast.
These kings' defeat fulfilled specific judgment: they gathered to destroy those who made peace with Israel (Gibeon), revealing the spiritual dynamics behind political alliances. The phrase echad ('one') after each name emphasizes individual accountability—each king faced personal judgment for covenant resistance. Lachish later became infamous for idolatry (Micah 1:13), showing that defeating external enemies doesn't guarantee internal spiritual victory.