Definition: So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the vale, and of the springs, and all their kings: he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 10:40. It’s a really powerful and dramatic statement about God's power. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, Joshua was completely obliterating everything – all the people, kingdoms, and even the land itself – with a single, devastating act. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the vale, and of the springs…” - This describes a vast area. He wasn't just targeting one specific spot; he was taking over an entire region. Think of it like a massive, sweeping campaign. “…and of the kings…” – This means all the rulers and leaders were targeted. It wasn’t just about local chieftains; it was about the entire kingdom of Israel and Judah. "...he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed..." - This is the core of the verse. “Breathed” refers to all living things – people, animals, plants, even the land itself. Joshua completely wiped out everything that existed. He didn’t just kill some people; he obliterated the entire kingdom. "...as the LORD God of Israel commanded." - This is a crucial part. It's saying this action was ordered by God. It wasn't a random act of violence; it was a deliberate and sanctioned destruction carried out by God’s authority. It emphasizes that this wasn’t just a brutal war; it was a divine judgment. In short, the verse describes a complete and utter annihilation of everything under Joshua’s control. It speaks to God's absolute power and his willingness to completely destroy his enemies. Important Context: This is often interpreted as a pivotal moment in Israel’s history – a time when God decisively defeated their enemies and established His dominion over the land. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts further, or would you like me to relate this verse to a specific biblical story or theme? For example, we could discuss: Why this event is significant in the Old Testament. What it might symbolize about God’s power and judgment.