Joshua

Lore & Background

Joshua first appears as a military leader chosen by Moses to fight Amalek (Exodus 17:9). He obeys Moses, engages in battle, and discomfits the enemy with the sword (Exodus 17:10, 13). After the victory, the LORD commands Moses to write a memorial and rehearse it in Joshua's ears, promising to utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek (Exodus 17:14). Joshua later accompanies Moses partway up the mount of God (Exodus 24:13) and mistakes the sound of the people's shouting for war (Exodus 32:17). He is described as a young man who remains in the tabernacle after the LORD speaks to Moses face to face (Exodus 33:11).

Reader's Guide

The passages portray Joshua as a loyal subordinate and emerging leader. He begins as a military commander under Moses' direction, executing the battle against Amalek (Exodus 17:9-10, 13). His faithfulness is highlighted when he alone with Caleb is spared from the wilderness judgment (Numbers 14:30, 38; 26:65; 32:12). Joshua's role as Moses' servant is consistent: he ministers to Moses (Exodus 24:13), stays near the tabernacle (Exodus 33:11), and is entrusted with the memorial of Amalek's defeat (Exodus 17:14). His concern for Moses' authority appears when he asks Moses to forbid unauthorized prophesying (Numbers 11:28). Ultimately, the LORD selects Joshua as Moses' successor, describing him as a man with the spirit, and Moses publicly commissions him (Numbers 27:18, 22). Joshua is also listed among those who will divide the land (Numbers 34:17).

Did You Know?

• Joshua is first mentioned as a military leader chosen by Moses to fight Amalek (Exodus 17:9).
• After the battle, the LORD commanded Moses to write a memorial and rehearse it in Joshua's ears (Exodus 17:14).
• Joshua was one of only two spies, along with Caleb, who survived the wilderness and entered the land (Numbers 14:30, 38).
• The LORD said Joshua had the spirit and Moses laid hands on him to commission him (Numbers 27:18, 22).

Notable Quotes (Wikiquote)

"Now the city shall be doomed by the Lord to destruction, it (Jericho) and all who are in it. Only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all who are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent." — Joshua "Now Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands on him; so the children of Israel heeded him, and did as the Lord had commanded Moses." — Joshua