Definition: And it came to pass, when Jabin king of Hazor had heard [those things], that he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:1. It’s a bit dramatic, but it’s about a very serious event in ancient Israel's history! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse tells us that after a significant battle, there was a very big problem – a threat to the kingdom of Israel. It describes a situation where powerful rulers were being warned about something dangerous happening. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Joshua 11:1” : This is a specific passage from the Book of Joshua, which tells us about the conquest of Canaan (modern-day Israel and Palestine) after the Israelites’ victory over the Philistines. “And it came to pass…” : This phrase means "it happened." It's a way of introducing a story that’s been happening for a while. “…when Jabin king of Hazor had heard [those things]” : This is key . Jabin was a powerful, wealthy king of the city of Hazor. The "things" he heard are likely references to a secret or dangerous plan that was revealed. “Hearing” suggests this wasn’t just a casual conversation; it was something significant and potentially troubling. "...that he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph,” : This is the real problem. Jabin had sent messengers – leaders – to these other powerful kings to warn them about this impending threat. These kings are named: Jobab: A ruler of a city near Hazor. King of Shimron: A king in a distant region, likely involved in conflict. King of Achshaph: A king far away, who was also involved. So, what’s the big takeaway? This verse establishes a situation of impending danger . Jabin's warning to these kings – that something terrible was about to happen – is the starting point of a conflict and a series of events that ultimately led to the destruction of the city of Hazor. It sets the stage for a larger story of war and rebellion. In short, it’s a prologue to a story of betrayal and violence. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant in biblical history? Provide more context about the events that led up to this verse?

Definition: And Joshua at that time turned back, and took Hazor, and smote the king thereof with the sword: for Hazor beforetime was the head of all those kingdoms.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joshua 11:10. It's a pretty dramatic story about a battle and a shift in power. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Historical Context: This verse comes after the Israelites had conquered the city of Hazor. Hazor was a significant city, and the Israelites were determined to destroy it. Joshua's Action: Joshua, the leader of the Israelite army, decides to take action. He leads his forces to attack Hazor. The Battle & Destruction: During the battle, Joshua’s soldiers systematically destroy the city. They kill the king and everyone inside. A Shift in Power: The most important part is that after this destruction, Hazor becomes the "head of all those kingdoms." That means it starts to become the most powerful and dominant kingdom in the region. Let's unpack it further: “And Joshua at that time turned back…” – This tells us that Joshua wasn’t just doing this action; he was making a deliberate decision. He recognized the importance of Hazor and decided to take control of it. “…and took Hazor, and smote the king thereof with the sword:” – He actually took the city by force. He used a sword to kill the king, signifying his complete victory. “For Hazor beforetime was the head of all those kingdoms.” – This is the key part! It means that after the battle, Hazor became the most important and powerful kingdom in the entire region. It essentially established it as the leader. What does this mean symbolically? This verse speaks to a larger idea: order and stability. When a strong, victorious kingdom like Hazor becomes the “head of all kingdoms,” it suggests that God’s will and his chosen rulers are establishing a proper order and protecting their people. It's a message about the importance of righteous leadership and the establishment of power for good. In short: This verse describes a significant victory where Joshua conquered a city, destroyed its king, and established Hazor as the dominant force in the region – signifying God’s chosen rule establishing order and protecting his people. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points further? Give an example of how this verse relates to other stories or events in the Bible?

Definition: And they smote all the souls that [were] therein with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying [them]: there was not any left to breathe: and he burnt Hazor with fire.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joshua 11:11. It’s a really powerful and dramatic verse that tells us about a devastating event in ancient Israel’s history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Threat: The verse describes a massive attack on the city of Hazor. It was a significant battle, and the enemy (likely the Philistines) were determined to conquer the city. The Weapon: They used swords – specifically, the edge of the sword – to kill everyone inside. The Result: Complete Destruction: They killed every single person . There was no one left alive. The Burning: As a final act of destruction, they set Hazor on fire with fire. Let's unpack it further: "And they smote all the souls that [were] therein": This is a key part. "Souls" refers to people – individuals. The word "smote" means to strike or kill, and here, it’s implying a brutal, forceful killing. “utterly destroying them”: This emphasizes the complete annihilation of everyone inside. It wasn't just a few people; they were completely wiped out. “there was not any left to breathe": This is a chilling phrase – it means there was no one left to live. There was no more life in the city. “and he burnt Hazor with fire”: This shows that the fire wasn’t just a simple burning; it was deliberately used as a weapon of destruction, symbolizing the complete annihilation of the city and its people. What's the Significance? This verse is often seen as a symbol of God's judgment on sin and wickedness. It highlights: God’s Power: It shows God’s absolute power to destroy evil and punish those who stray from his path. The Consequences of Sin: The destruction of Hazor was a direct result of the people's rebellion and their refusal to obey God’s commands. A Warning: It serves as a warning to all people – to turn away from sin and seek God’s guidance. In short, this passage describes a horrific event where God utterly destroyed everyone inside a city, demonstrating his power and judgment against evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or theme?

Definition: And all the cities of those kings, and all the kings of them, did Joshua take, and smote them with the edge of the sword, [and] he utterly destroyed them, as Moses the servant of the LORD commanded.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:12. It’s a pretty dramatic passage about a large-scale military victory! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: Joshua is leading Israel into Canaan (the land God promised). This was a huge deal – they were moving into a new territory and hoping to establish a kingdom there. The Kings of the Land are Powerful: The verse describes several kings who ruled over the area now known as Canaan. They were powerful and had armies. Joshua Sends His Soldiers: Joshua, God’s leader, ordered his soldiers to attack these kings and their armies. Ruthless Destruction: Joshua’s army completely destroyed (smote) all of those kings and their armies. He did this with a sword, as commanded by God. Let's Simplify It Further: Think of it like this: “Joshua, with the help of God, sent his soldiers to conquer all the kings who lived in the land, and completely wiped them out.” Key Points & Context: God’s Command: The verse emphasizes that this wasn't just a random attack. It was ordered by God. This shows how God is involved in history – He uses His people to bring about what He wants. Total Destruction: The word “smote” means to strike or destroy with force. The verse doesn’t say the soldiers killed them, but they utterly destroyed them, signifying a complete defeat. Why is this important? This event is significant because it shows God's power and control over nations. It also highlights that God's plans are often very deliberate and will ultimately result in victory for those who follow Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Discuss the significance of this event in a broader context (like the story of the conquest)?

Definition: But [as for] the cities that stood still in their strength, Israel burned none of them, save Hazor only; [that] did Joshua burn.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:13. It’s a really important and dramatic part of the story of the Battle of Jericho! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Situation: The Enemy (Goblins) Were Strong: The Israelites were facing a massive army of Goblins, who had been harassing them for a long time. They were incredibly strong and determined to stay put. The Defenders Were Steadfast: Jericho was surrounded by a group of people – the city defenders – who were holding their ground and refusing to surrender. They were prepared to fight. What Happened Next: Joshua Focused His Forces: Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, decided to focus his army’s attacks on Jericho. He wanted to burn them all. Only Jericho Burned: But, instead of attacking everyone, Joshua only burned Hazor (a small city). The Meaning – It's a Powerful Message: This verse is a story about faith and God’s power. It means: God is Powerful: God was so powerful that He could overcome even the most determined and steadfast enemies. Faith Matters: It shows that faith in God was crucial. The defenders of Jericho didn't fight with brute force, but with their belief in God’s protection. God's Will is Achieved: The verse implies that God’s plan – to defeat the enemy – was being carried out, even if it meant a single city burning. In short, Joshua burned only Hazor because God chose to use that as an example of His power and to demonstrate that faith in Him could triumph over evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from the Bible? Discuss the significance of this passage in a broader context (like its impact on the Israelites)?

Definition: And all the spoil of these cities, and the cattle, the children of Israel took for a prey unto themselves; but every man they smote with the edge of the sword, until they had destroyed them, neither left they any to breathe.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:14. It’s a pretty dramatic and sobering passage about the aftermath of the battle against the Amalekites. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Israelites were fighting the Amalekites, who had been raiding their land. After a long and difficult battle, the Israelites won, but they were incredibly shaken by the violence. They took the dead bodies of the Amalekites – their animals, their corpses, even the children – and used them as food. They slaughtered them all until there was nothing left. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And all the spoil of these cities, and the cattle, the children of Israel took for a prey unto themselves” : This means they took the dead bodies of the Amalekites – everything they found – and used them as food. It's a brutal image of loss and devastation. "Spoil" refers to the remnants left behind after a battle. “But every man they smote with the edge of the sword, until they had destroyed them, neither left they any to breathe.” : This is the core of the verse. They used swords to kill all the Amalekites. Crucially, they didn’t stop . They continued to attack and kill until there was nothing left – no animals, no bodies, no life. "Neither left they any to breathe" emphasizes that they completely eliminated the Amalekites from existence. What's the Significance? This verse is a powerful warning about the consequences of violence. It’s a reminder that: Violence Becomes a Cycle: When we inflict harm, it can create a cycle of destruction and suffering. The Cost of Warfare: It highlights the devastating impact of war – not just on the victors, but on everything they take with them. A Call for Rest and Reconciliation: The verse also suggests that after a time of intense conflict, it’s important to find peace and reconciliation. It speaks to a need for healing and rebuilding after a terrible loss. In short, this passage is about the complete annihilation of the Amalekites through violence, leaving nothing behind. Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Discuss its historical context?

Definition: As the LORD commanded Moses his servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the LORD commanded Moses.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:15. It’s a really powerful statement about obedience and commitment! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it means: Moses gave instructions to Joshua, and Joshua followed those instructions perfectly. He didn’t miss a single thing that Moses told him to do. Let’s unpack it further: “As the LORD commanded…” - This is important because it highlights that this wasn't just any instruction; it was a direct order from God. “…Moses his servant…” – This refers to Moses himself, who was leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. “…and so did Moses command…” – This emphasizes that Moses also gave instructions. “…and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone…” - This is the key part! Joshua took all of Moses’ orders and made absolutely sure every single detail was completed. He didn't skip a step, didn’t make mistakes, and didn't forget anything. In essence, it speaks to: Absolute obedience: Following instructions precisely. Commitment: Being fully dedicated to completing tasks given to you. Responsibility: Recognizing that your role is to carry out what has been assigned. It’s a reminder for us to be thorough and diligent in our work and responsibilities. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse?

Definition: So Joshua took all that land, the hills, and all the south country, and all the land of Goshen, and the valley, and the plain, and the mountain of Israel, and the valley of the same;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:16. It's a really significant passage in the Bible that speaks about the Israelites’ possession of a large area – essentially, a huge chunk of land – and how it was given to them as a gift. Here’s a simplified explanation: What’s Happening? Joshua is taking control: Joshua, a leader of the Israelites, is taking over a massive territory that includes all of Goshen (a large area in modern-day Israel) and the surrounding valleys and plains. He's giving it to them: He’s essentially handing this land over to the Israelites as a gift. It’s a significant amount of land – it covers a huge area! What does it mean? This verse is part of a larger story about God's plan for Israel and their future. Here's what it suggests: God’s Promise: It speaks to a promise made long ago by God to the Israelites, promising them a land to call their own. A Gift, Not Ownership: The verse highlights that this wasn’t a simple “we’ll give you this land” situation. It was given as a gift , and the Israelites were entrusted with it. It's important to understand that God didn’t just give them the land; He gave it to them as a promise of their future. A Time of Transition: The verse also hints at a period of transition – a time when they would have to manage this land carefully and ensure its prosperity for Israel. Important Note: The "Problem" This verse is often associated with a difficult situation in the book of Joshua, specifically concerning the Israelites’ treatment of enslaved people in Goshen. It's important to remember that this was a period of immense hardship and suffering for the Israelites, and it's a part of a larger narrative about justice and God's plan. In short: This verse describes the Israelites receiving a vast amount of land as a gift from God, marking a significant step in their history and a promise of their future prosperity. --- Do you want me to go into more detail on any aspect of this verse? For example, would you like to know: More about the context of the story before and after this verse? The significance of the "problem" associated with this passage?

Definition: [Even] from the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir, even unto Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon under mount Hermon: and all their kings he took, and smote them, and slew them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 11:17. It’s a really significant passage about a massive battle and a change in power. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Problem: The Israelites were being invaded by the Philistines, who were a fierce and organized people. They were building a temple on Mount Sinai, which made them a target. God’s Command: God told Joshua to take all the kings of the Philistine tribes and send them to destroy the temples. Basically, he wanted to eliminate the threat. The Battle: Joshua sent his army to attack the Philistine cities. They fought fiercely, and the battle was incredibly intense. The Victory: After a long and brutal struggle, Joshua’s forces completely defeated the Philistines. They took all the kings of the tribe of Benjamin (the ones who built the temple) and sent them to Mount Hermon. What it Means in Plain Language: “Even from the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir, even unto Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon under mount Hermon: and all their kings he took, and smote them, and slew them.” This means: "Mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir..." – This refers to a specific mountain range near the Dead Sea. "...even unto Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon under mount Hermon..." - This is a very long and detailed description of where the battle took place. It’s a geographically precise location. "and all their kings he took..." – Joshua ordered to take all the kings of the Philistine tribes. "...and smote them, and slew them." - He sent his army to kill these kings. Key Takeaway: This verse describes a complete and decisive victory for God in a major battle against the Philistines, resulting in the destruction of their ruling class. Important Note: The exact details of how this happened are debated among scholars, but it’s generally understood as a clear example of divine judgment and the ultimate triumph of God's power over evil. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the significance of this story in the Bible?

Definition: Joshua made war a long time with all those kings.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Joshua 11:18. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: Basically, it means Joshua was fighting very hard for a long time against many rulers. Here’s a slightly more detailed breakdown: “Joshua made war” : This is just saying Joshua led a military campaign. “a long time” : He fought for many years – perhaps decades or even longer. “with all those kings” : This means he battled against numerous kings and rulers, not just one or two. It’s a really significant part of the story of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. It highlights how challenging it was to defeat the powerful kingdoms that were resisting Israel’s rule. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is important in biblical history? Give you an example of a king Joshua fought against?