Joshua 10:30
And the LORD delivered it also, and the king thereof, into the hand of Israel; and he smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein; he let none remain in it; but did unto the king thereof as he did unto the king of Jericho.
Joshua 10:30 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Bible recounts a specific instance where the Lord delivered a city and its king into the hands of Israel. In this event, the Israelites conquered the city through warfare, slaying all the inhabitants and leaving none alive. This act is consistent with the previous conquest of Jericho, where the king and all the people were also killed. The verse serves to illustrate the power of the Lord in granting victory to the Israelites in their battles and the harsh consequences of their enemies' defiance. It highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the severe judgment that awaits those who oppose His will. This passage showcases the Israelites as instruments of God's divine justice and executioners of His judgment upon their enemies, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and sovereignty throughout the biblical narrative.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of divine intervention in warfare. Here, we see the LORD delivering the city and its king into the hands of Israel, allowing for their victory. This demonstrates God's power and sovereignty over all kingdoms, both large and small. The phrase "he smote it with the edge of the sword" signifies the brutal reality of warfare and the judgment that comes with it. The complete destruction of the city and all its inhabitants reflects the severity of God's judgment on those who oppose His people. The parallel between this event and the conquest of Jericho underscores the consistency of God's actions in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Overall, this verse showcases God's faithfulness in fulfilling His word and protecting His chosen people.
Joshua 10:30 in other translations
American Standard Version
and Jehovah delivered it also, and the king thereof, into the hand of Israel; and he smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein; he left none remaining in it; and he did unto the king thereof as he had done unto the king of Jericho.
World English Bible
Yahweh delivered it also, with its king, into the hand of Israel. He struck it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls who were in it. He left no one remaining in it. He did to its king as he had done to the king of Jericho.
Douay-Rheims
And the Lord delivered it with the king thereof into the hands of Israel: and they destroyed the city with the edge of the sword, and all the inhabitants thereof. They left not in it any remains. And they did to the king of Lebna, as they had done to the king of Jericho.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the Lord gaue it also and the King thereof into the hand of Israel: and he smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the soules that were therein: he let none remaine in it: for he did vnto the King thereof, as he had done vnto the King of Iericho.