Joshua 6:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Joshua 6:2
2 And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour.
Chapter Context
Joshua 6 is a historical narrative chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of truth, hope, creation. Written during the conquest of Canaan (c. 1406-1375 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Canaan was fragmented into city-states with various tribal alliances and religious practices.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-27: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Joshua and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Joshua 6:2
2 And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour.
Analysis
God's declaration—'See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour'—uses past tense ('I have given') for future conquest. From divine perspective, victory is already accomplished; Israel simply receives what God provides. This grammatical choice teaches faith to claim promises before seeing fulfillment. The comprehensive gift includes city, king, and warriors—nothing excluded from divine grant. Such comprehensive promises demand equally comprehensive faith.
Historical Context
Jericho was Canaan's gateway city, heavily fortified with double walls. Its conquest established Israel's presence in Canaan and demoralized other cities. The famous archaeological debate about Jericho's walls centers on dating—some evidence suggests destruction around 1400 BC (matching early Exodus date), while other evidence points to earlier destruction. Regardless, the biblical testimony presents miraculous collapse attributable to God, not human siege tactics. This established the pattern: God fights for Israel.
Reflection
- How does God's past-tense promise ('I have given') affect your faith for current challenges?
- What seemingly impregnable 'Jerichos' face you that require trusting God's comprehensive victory promise?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Joshua 8:1, Deuteronomy 7:24, Nehemiah 9:24
- References Lord: Joshua 2:9, 2:24