Joshua 11:14

Arabic Bible ERV 2009

وَأخَذَ بَنُو إسْرائِيلَ غَنائِمَ هَذِهِ المُدُنِ وَحَيواناتِها، وَأمّا النّاسُ فَقَتَلُوهُمْ بِالسَّيفِ حَتَّى أفنَوْهُمْ، وَلَمْ يَترُكُوا كَائِناً يَتَنَفَّسُ.

What Does This Mean?

This verse describes the Israelites taking all the property and animals from the cities they conquered, but they killed all the people in those cities. It shows how they took everything but did not leave any survivors.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're playing a game where you collect all the toys from another team's house but you don't let any of their players stay in the game. That's kind of what this verse is talking about, but it's much more serious and sad.

Historical Background

Joshua 11:14 is part of the book of Joshua, written by Joshua or his contemporaries around 1400-1300 BCE. It describes the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership and was intended for the Israelites as a reminder of God's faithfulness and power.

Living It Out Today

This verse can remind us about the importance of following clear instructions and the consequences of disobedience. In a modern context, it could reflect on how we handle difficult decisions or situations where obedience to a higher moral code is required.

Topics

• conquest
• obedience
• divine command
• warfare
• spoils of war
• moral dilemmas

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 7:2
• Joshua 10:40
• Numbers 31:7
• 1 Samuel 15:3
• Revelation 11:18

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Israelites have to kill everyone in the cities?

The Israelites believed that God commanded them to eliminate all inhabitants to avoid being tempted into idolatry and to fulfill the prophecy about taking possession of the land.

What were the spoils of war used for?

The spoils of war, including livestock and property, were often used to support the Israelite community, reward the soldiers, or as offerings to God.

How does this verse relate to modern warfare?

This verse raises ethical questions about the justification of total warfare, which can be compared to modern discussions on the rules of engagement and the laws of war.

What does this verse teach us about obedience?

It teaches that obedience to divine commands, even if they seem harsh, is critical. However, modern interpretation often emphasizes the importance of moral judgment and compassion alongside obedience.