Joshua 10:22 - Then Joshua said, “Open the cave entrance, and bring those five kings out of the cave to me.”

Generated Verse: Joshua 10:22

What does "Joshua 10:22" mean?


This verse describes a pivotal moment in the Israelite conquest of Canaan, led by Joshua. Let's break down what it means:

Context: This verse occurs after Joshua and the Israelites decisively defeated a coalition of five Amorite kings who had attacked Gibeon (a city that had made peace with Israel). The five kings fled and hid in a cave.

"Then Joshua said..." This indicates that Joshua, as the leader appointed by God, is giving a direct command. His words are authoritative.

"Open the cave entrance..." Joshua is instructing his soldiers to remove any obstacles blocking the cave's opening. This is a necessary first step to retrieving the kings.

"...and bring those five kings out of the cave to me." This is the key instruction. Joshua is demanding that the captured kings be brought before him.

Significance and Implications:

Complete Victory: Capturing the kings alive signifies a complete and decisive victory over the Amorite coalition. The kings are now at Joshua's mercy.

Public Humiliation: Bringing the kings out publicly would serve to humiliate them and demonstrate the power of the God of Israel to the Israelite soldiers and potentially surrounding Canaanite cities. It's a public display of dominance.

Further Conquest: The defeat of these kings opened the way for the Israelites to conquer more territory in southern Canaan. Their removal eliminated major military threats.

Fulfillment of God's Promise: This event is seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the Israelites. Joshua's success reinforces the belief that God is with them and guiding them.

Judgment: The fate that awaited the kings after this verse indicates the judgment that came upon those who opposed God's plans for Israel.

In short, Joshua 10:22 is a short, powerful verse signifying victory, dominance, and the advancement of God's plan for the Israelites in conquering the Promised Land.