10 Interesting Facts About Joshua in The Bible

10 Interesting Facts About Joshua in The Bible

He was a Hebrew leader who succeeded Moses as the leader of the Israelites. He led them in the conquest of Canaan which is the land that God had promised them. Joshua grew up in the wilderness after the Israelites were freed from slavery. Joshua was among the twelve spies who were sent to explore Canaan and was the only one who had faith that the Israelites could defeat the Canaanites. 

Joshua is noted for being a strong and courageous leader who led the Israelites to victory in many battles. He also helped them settle in Canaan and build a new nation. Christians remember him as a great leader and man of faith.

Here are the 10 Interesting Facts about Joshua in The Bible;

1. His Name Has a Powerful Meaning

Joshua was born in Egypt before the Exodus. Joshua is a Hebrew name that means Yahweh is salvation. His name has become popular among Christians, and Jews. The name can also be translated as God saves or the Lord is salvation. Joshua is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and his willingness to save his people. It should be noted that the name of Joshua is a popular boy’s name but it is sometime given to girl’s.

2. Joshua was Among the Twelve Spies

When Joshua was chosen by his tribe, Ephraim, to be a spy, he had faith that the Israelites could defeat the Canaanites. Joshua together with Caleb shared that the land was flowing with milk and honey. They told the Israelites that God would help them defeat the Canaanites. Joshua had faith that the Israelites would win the battle because God was with them.

3. He was Appointed by Moses 

God instructed Moses to appoint Joshua as his successor. Moses laid his hands on Joshua and blessed him with strength and courage. Moses also told Joshua to obey God’s commandments and to lead the Israelites in the conquest of Canaan. When Moses died, Joshua immediately took over as the leader of the Israelites. With the help of God, he led with wisdom and fairness.

4. Joshua was a Faithful Leader and Servant

He obeyed God’s commandments and instructions and he never once wavered in his commitment to God. Joshua is also noted for his willingness to fight for what he believed was right. Through God, Joshua was a wise leader who made good decisions. He was a compassionate leader who cared for his people.

Joshua was a trustworthy leader who kept his promises, this made him a loyal leader who put the needs of others before his own. It should be noted that Joshua served God wholeheartedly.

5. Joshua Divided the Land Among The Tribes

One of the most difficult tasks Joshua had to do was to divide the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel. There many different tribes and each one wanted the best part of the land. However, his wisdom helped him divide the land fairly and peacefully. The twelve tribes include Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Joseph, and Benjamin.

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6. He Established a Theocratic Government

When the Israelites had completely settled in Canaan, he established that they were ruled by God through his judges and prophets. Through his wisdom and faith, Joshua was able to establish a strong and stable government that was governed by God. He also ensured that there were no practices of idolatry and paganism. Joshua knew that these practices would lead to the Israelites straying away from God which is why he worked to eradicate them.

7. He Encouraged Peace among The Israelites

Joshua knew that conflict would only weaken the Israelites. In order to ensure peace and unity, he worked to build relationships with the surrounding nations. Joshua did this because he knew it would make fighting less likely. However, his efforts were not always successful. There were times when the Israelites would fight among themselves. But during these times, Joshua would lay the foundation for a period of peace and prosperity in Canaan.

Read more about the biblical figure Caleb here.

9. He Married a Prostitute

 

In the book of Joshua, it is recorded that he met a prostitute named Rahab who lived in Jericho. Rahab helped the Israelite spies to gain information on Jericho. Due to the fact that she helped them, Rahab was spared from destruction when they conquered the city. Even though the time of their marriage is not recorded, the Book of Hebrews states that Rahab was Joshua’s wife. Many scholars argue that it is not possible while others believe it did happen.

9. Joshua Promoted Religious Unity

He strongly encouraged the Israelites to worship God and to follow his commandments. He believed that it would help create a sense of common purpose and identity among the Israelites. Joshua also believed that if they were united, they would be less likely to fight among themselves. This ensured that they would be stronger if they were ever attacked by their enemies.

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10. Joshua Died at The Age of 110

 

In the Book of Judges, it is recorded that Joshua died at the age of 110 years and was buried with his fathers in the land of his inheritance. His death was a great loss to the Israelites because he was a wise and courageous leader. He helped them conquer the land of Canaan and establish it as a nation. Joshua’s death is a reminder that even great leaders must eventually pass away.

Read more about Stephen from the bible here.

All in all, Joshua is known for being a prominent figure in the bible. His legacy is one of peace and unity. He used his wisdom to lead the Israelites and his Courage to be just and fair. His ability to establish peace at a time of conflict is a great example to many Christian leaders. Joshua is an inspiration to Christians that God is always faithful to those who trust in him.