Chapter 10: Joshua and the Conquest of Canaan
The Leadership of Joshua
After the death of Moses, Joshua assumed leadership over the Israelites. Yehovah commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous as he led the people into the Promised Land, assuring him of His constant presence and guidance.
Crossing the Jordan and the Fall of Jericho
As the Israelites approached the Jordan River, Yehovah performed another miraculous act. He parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land, just as He had done at the Red Sea during the time of Moses.
The first city the Israelites encountered in Canaan was Jericho. Yehovah instructed Joshua on a unique strategy: the Israelites marched around the city for seven days, and on the seventh day, they shouted, causing the walls of Jericho to collapse. The city was captured, showcasing the faithfulness and power of Yehovah.
Conquest and Division of the Land
With the fall of Jericho, the Israelites continued their conquest of Canaan. Yehovah granted them victory over various cities and nations as they obeyed His commands. The land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel, fulfilling the promise Yehovah had made to their ancestors.
Chapter 10: Joshua and the Conquest of Canaan
The Leadership of Joshua
After the death of Moses, Joshua assumed leadership over the Israelites. Yehovah commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous as he led the people into the Promised Land, assuring him of His constant presence and guidance.
Crossing the Jordan and the Fall of Jericho
As the Israelites approached the Jordan River, Yehovah performed another miraculous act. He parted the waters, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry land, just as He had done at the Red Sea during the time of Moses.
The first city the Israelites encountered in Canaan was Jericho. Yehovah instructed Joshua on a unique strategy: the Israelites marched around the city for seven days, and on the seventh day, they shouted, causing the walls of Jericho to collapse. The city was captured, showcasing the faithfulness and power of Yehovah.
Conquest and Division of the Land
With the fall of Jericho, the Israelites continued their conquest of Canaan. Yehovah granted them victory over various cities and nations as they obeyed His commands. The land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel, fulfilling the promise Yehovah had made to their ancestors.
The Judges of Israel
The Cycle of Rebellion and Deliverance
After the conquest of Canaan, the Israelites entered a period of instability marked by a recurring cycle. The people would turn away from Yehovah, worshiping foreign gods and engaging in evil practices. As a result, Yehovah allowed them to be oppressed by neighboring nations.
In their distress, the Israelites would cry out to Yehovah for deliverance. He would raise up judges—charismatic leaders appointed by Yehovah—to rescue the people from their enemies and restore peace and righteousness.
Gideon, Deborah, Samson, and Other Judges
Several notable judges emerged during this time. Gideon, a hesitant leader, was chosen by Yehovah to defeat the Midianites with only a small army. Deborah, a prophetess, led the Israelites in a victorious battle against the Canaanites. Samson, renowned for his extraordinary strength, delivered the Israelites from the Philistines but also faced personal challenges due to his weakness for temptation.
