What does Joshua 1:17 mean?

According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. Joshua 1:17

Explanation

Joshua 1:17 comes from the book of Joshua in the Old Testament and occurs at the beginning of Joshua’s leadership over Israel. The Israelites are speaking to Joshua, who has been appointed as Moses’ successor to lead them into the Promised Land. The verse suggests a pledge of loyalty to Joshua, similar to the respect and obedience they gave to Moses. They affirm their commitment to listening to Joshua’s commands as long as God is with him as He was with Moses. The mention of God’s presence emphasizes that their obedience is contingent on the divine endorsement of Joshua’s leadership.

Historical Context

The book of Joshua was written in the context of the Israelites’ history as they transition from the wandering life in the wilderness to the conquest and settlement of Canaan. Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt, has passed away, and Joshua, his aide, has been appointed by God as his successor. This period was marked by a need for firm leadership and the continuation of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. It is essential to the narrative that the people accept Joshua’s authority as divinely appointed, as they are about to embark on a series of military campaigns.

Theological Insights

The theological implications of Joshua 1:17 are significant. Firstly, it affirms the principle of divinely appointed leadership, as the Israelites recognize that Joshua’s authority comes from God. Secondly, it reflects the covenantal theology present in the Old Testament, wherein the people’s success is linked to their obedience to God’s commandments and their leaders. Thirdly, the condition they set forth—that God’s presence be with Joshua—implies an understanding that their military success and well-being depend on divine favor, not solely on human leadership.

Practical Applications

The verse can be applied to modern life in various ways. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and following legitimate and moral leadership, especially when it aligns with divine or ethical principles. It also underscores the value of pledging support and unity when pursuing common goals. Additionally, it can be interpreted as highlighting the necessity for leaders to seek and maintain integrity, as their ability to lead effectively is linked with their relationship with the divine or moral values they profess to uphold.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 34:9 – “And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the LORD commanded Moses.”
• Exodus 14:31 – “And Israel saw that great work which the LORD did upon the Egyptians: and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and his servant Moses.”

Language Study

In the original Hebrew text, the word “hearkened” is translated from “שָׁמַע” (shama), which means to hear, listen to, or obey. The phrase “only the LORD thy God be with thee” uses the word “אִמָּךְ” (immak) for “with thee,” which not only implies presence but also companionship and support. This reflects the intimate relationship between God and the leader of Israel.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The idea of divine endorsement of leaders is not unique to Hebraic tradition and can be found in other ancient cultures. For example, kings in Mesopotamia were often depicted as chosen by the gods and acting on their behalf. In the ancient Egyptian belief system, pharaohs were considered divine or semi-divine and acted as mediators between gods and people.

Scientific Perspectives

There is no direct intersection of this particular verse with scientific understandings, as it speaks more to leadership and divine-human relationships than empirical observations of the world. However, one could explore the psychological and sociological dynamics of leadership endorsement and the role that shared beliefs play in group cohesion and the success of communities, which are relevant topics in social science research.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of Joshua 1:17. Many see it as a statement of transition and continuity from Moses to Joshua. Some commentaries focus on the condition imposed by the people, which reveals their understanding of the source of their victories and well-being. Others highlight the strength of the commitment made to Joshua, as a model of how the community should unite behind godly leadership. The verse has been discussed for its implications on how leaders should be recognized and followed, setting a precedent in biblical leadership transition.