King James Version
What Does Joshua 7:8 Mean?
“O Lord, what shall I say, when Israel turneth their backs before their enemies! backs: Heb. necks”
Context
6
And Joshua rent his clothes, and fell to the earth upon his face before the ark of the LORD until the eventide, he and the elders of Israel, and put dust upon their heads.
7
And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord GOD, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to God we had been content, and dwelt on the other side Jordan!
8
O Lord, what shall I say, when Israel turneth their backs before their enemies! backs: Heb. necks
9
For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear of it, and shall environ us round, and cut off our name from the earth: and what wilt thou do unto thy great name?
10
And the LORD said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? liest: Heb. fallest
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary**Verses 6-9**
Joshua's concern for the honour of God, more than even for the fate of Israel, was the language of the Spirit of adoption. He pleaded with God. He laments their defeat, as he feared it would reflect on God's wisdom and power, his goodness and faithfulness. We cannot at any time urge a better plea than this, Lord, what wilt thou do for thy great name? Let God be glorified in all, and then welcome his whole will.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.
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 7:8 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 7:8
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge