What does Joshua 1:16 mean?

And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. Joshua 1:16

Explanation

Joshua 1:16 is a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. It reflects the people’s response to Joshua’s leadership following the death of Moses. The Israelites are expressing their willingness to obey Joshua’s commands and follow him wherever he leads. This affirmation not only indicates a promise of loyalty but also a commitment to the collective mission that lies ahead. It suggests a readiness to face whatever challenges arise as they trust Joshua’s God-given authority.

Historical Context

This verse occurs after the death of Moses, who had led the Israelites out of Egypt and through forty years in the wilderness. Joshua, Moses’ assistant, has been appointed by God as the new leader to take the Israelites into Canaan, a land promised to their ancestors. This period, which marks the transition of leadership, is critical as it sets the stage for the conquest and settlement of Canaan. The Israelites are encamped on the plains of Moab by the Jordan River, poised to cross into the land they are to inhabit.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives view this verse in varying lights. A traditional Jewish or Christian perspective may see this as a confirmation of Joshua’s divine appointment by God and the Israelites’ covenantal faithfulness. In contrast, a more critical theological viewpoint might reflect on the dynamics of power and the human need for leadership during times of transition. It might also be interpreted as a lesson in community, obedience, and trust in God’s plan, where the Israelites collectively affirm their commitment rather than each person following his or her own path.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as an inspiration for commitment to community and leadership. It can encourage individuals to be supportive and to trust in the guidance of those who are responsibly leading a group towards a common goal. It may also be seen as a call to faithfulness and obedience in one’s own commitments, be they religious, personal, or professional.

Cross-References

• Joshua 1:9 – “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
• Exodus 19:8 – “And all the people answered together, and said, All that the LORD hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the LORD.”
• Deuteronomy 31:7 – “And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.”

Language Study

The key words “commandest” and “sendest” in the original Hebrew text are מְצַוֵּ֥ה (metzaveh) and תִשְׁלָחֵ֖נוּ (tishlahenu), respectively. מְצַוֵּ֥ה (metzaveh) is derived from the root צוּה (tsavah), which means ‘to command’ and suggests a formal decree from someone in authority. תִשְׁלָחֵ֖נוּ (tishlahenu) comes from the root שָׁלַח (shalach), meaning ‘to send,’ indicative of purpose and direction provided by the sender.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a leader succeeding after the death of a major figure is common across various cultures and religions. For example, in ancient Mesopotamian stories like the Epic of Gilgamesh, there’s a transition of power and a quest for a new path. In the context of other ancient Near Eastern texts, affirmations of loyalty to a king or leader are also evident, though the biblical narrative uniquely connects this loyalty to divine guidance and covenant fidelity.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might discuss the concept of leadership and group dynamics within the context of social psychology. Research in this field examines how individuals within a group respond to authority figures and how commitment to a group’s objectives and willingness to follow a leader can increase the group’s chances of success in achieving its goals.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have various interpretations of this verse. The general consensus is that it represents the people’s acceptance of Joshua’s divinely-ordained leadership and their dedication to the collective mission. Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for example, highlights the readiness and resolution of the people in supporting Joshua, interpreting their commitment as an act of faith. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges emphasizes the significant role of Joshua as Moses’s successor in carrying forward the task of settlement and the establishment of a holy community.