Joshua 7:26 - They raised over him a great heap of stones that remains to this day. Yahweh turned from the fierceness of his anger. Therefore the name of that place was called “The valley of Achor” to this day.

Generated Verse: Joshua 7:26

What does "Joshua 7:26" mean?


This verse describes the aftermath of the execution of Achan, who violated God's command during the conquest of Jericho. Let's break it down:

"They raised over him a great heap of stones that remains to this day." This refers to Achan and his family/possessions being stoned to death as punishment for his sin. The "great heap of stones" served as a physical reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God. The phrase "that remains to this day" implies that this pile of stones was still visible at the time the Book of Joshua was written, serving as a lasting warning to the Israelites.

"Yahweh turned from the fierceness of his anger." Achan's sin brought defeat to the Israelites in their battle against Ai, because God's favor had been withdrawn. By punishing Achan, the Israelites atoned for their sin, and God's anger was appeased. This indicates that obedience to God's commands was necessary for the Israelites to receive his blessing and achieve victory in their battles.

"Therefore the name of that place was called “The valley of Achor” to this day." "Achor" means "trouble" or "turbulent." The valley was named after the trouble that Achan caused to the entire Israelite community. The name served as a constant reminder of the consequences of Achan's sin and the importance of obedience. The phrase "to this day" reiterates that the name and its associated meaning were still in use at the time of writing.

In summary, the verse emphasizes the following:

Divine Justice: God's justice is swift and severe against those who disobey his commands.
Corporate Responsibility: Achan's sin affected the entire community, and the whole community participated in his punishment.
Atonement and Forgiveness: Punishment could atone for sin and restore God's favor.
Memorial and Warning: The heap of stones and the name of the valley served as permanent reminders of the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience to God.

Essentially, this verse is a cautionary tale about the importance of obeying God and the consequences of disobedience. It's a reminder that sin has far-reaching effects and that atonement is necessary to restore a relationship with God.

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