King James Version
Joshua 9:20 in the King James Version says “This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the oath which we sware unto them...” — study this verse from Joshua chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the oath which we sware unto them.”
Joshua 9:20 · KJV
And the children of Israel smote them not, because the princes of the congregation had sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel. And all the congregation murmured against the princes.
But all the princes said unto all the congregation, We have sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel: now therefore we may not touch them.
This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the oath which we sware unto them.
And the princes said unto them, Let them live; but let them be hewers of wood and drawers of water unto all the congregation; as the princes had promised them.
And Joshua called for them, and he spake unto them, saying, Wherefore have ye beguiled us, saying, We are very far from you; when ye dwell among us?
KJV Study — Public Domain
“to them we will even let them live”
H2421to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
“which we sware”
H7650to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)
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.
Joshua 9:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Joshua 9:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge