King James Version
What Does Joshua 12:14 Mean?
“The king of Hormah, one; the king of Arad, one;”
Joshua 12:14 · KJV
Context
12
The king of Eglon, one; the king of Gezer, one;
13
The king of Debir, one; the king of Geder, one;
14
The king of Hormah, one; the king of Arad, one;
15
The king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one;
16
The king of Makkedah, one; the king of Bethel, one;
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe king of Hormah, one; the king of Arad, one—Hormah (Chormah, חָרְמָה, from cherem, 'devoted to destruction') carries theological freight—it's where Israel first attempted unauthorized conquest and failed catastrophically (Numbers 14:45). The name means 'utter destruction/ban,' referring to herem warfare where everything is devoted to YHWH. Later conquest of Hormah (Judges 1:17) demonstrated that what faith accomplishes, presumption cannot.
Arad (Arad, עֲרָד) was a Canaanite stronghold in the Negev that initially defeated Israel (Numbers 21:1), then fell after Moses' vow of herem (Numbers 21:2-3). Both cities represent enemies that initially triumphed over Israel due to unbelief or disobedience, then fell when Israel operated in covenant obedience. Their inclusion in the victory catalog demonstrates grace—past defeats don't disqualify future victories when repentance occurs.
Arad (Arad, עֲרָד) was a Canaanite stronghold in the Negev that initially defeated Israel (Numbers 21:1), then fell after Moses' vow of herem (Numbers 21:2-3). Both cities represent enemies that initially triumphed over Israel due to unbelief or disobedience, then fell when Israel operated in covenant obedience. Their inclusion in the victory catalog demonstrates grace—past defeats don't disqualify future victories when repentance occurs.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Arad (Tel Arad and Tel Malhata) controlled the southern approaches to Canaan. Archaeological evidence shows destruction layers consistent with Israelite conquest. The site's strategic location made it crucial for controlling trade routes from Arabia and Egypt. Hormah (Tel Masos or Khirbet el-Meshash) guarded the Beer-sheba valley approaches.
Reflection Questions
- How does Hormah's etymology (<em>cherem</em>, 'devoted to destruction') challenge the modern tendency to sanitize biblical language about judgment?
- What does the transformation from defeat (Numbers 14:45) to victory at Hormah teach about God's willingness to redeem past failures through repentance and renewed obedience?
- How should the principle that 'presumption fails where faith succeeds' inform your approach to ministry and spiritual warfare?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsStudy Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Joshua. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Joshua 12:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Joshua 12:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge