Joshua 11:20
For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, and that they might have no favour, but that he might destroy them, as the LORD commanded Moses.
Joshua 11:20 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the Book of Joshua (11:20) describes a pivotal moment in Israelite history, shedding light on God's role in the battles fought by the Israelites. The phrase, "For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts," indicates that God was the one who influenced the enemy nations to come against Israel in battle. This hardening of their hearts served a greater purpose - to bring about the destruction of these nations at the hands of the Israelites. The verse emphasizes that this was all part of God's plan to fulfill his command to Moses, ensuring that the enemies of Israel would be utterly destroyed and not receive any favor. This passage showcases the belief in divine intervention and the role of God in guiding the course of history. It serves as a reminder of the Israelites' faith and their understanding of God's power and authority in their lives.
Theological Overview
Within this verse, we see a complex theological concept at play – the hardening of hearts by the Lord. The hardening of hearts refers to the idea that God can lead individuals to rebel against Him, in this case, the Israelites' enemies, in order to bring about His ultimate plan. This highlights the sovereignty of God in orchestrating events for the purpose of fulfilling His divine will. It also implies that God uses human actions, even those driven by hardness of heart, to achieve his greater purposes, such as the destruction of Israel's enemies. This verse showcases the intricate interplay between human free will and God's sovereignty, as well as the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. As such, it serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's will and the potential consequences of disobedience.
Joshua 11:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
For it was of Jehovah to harden their hearts, to come against Israel in battle, that he might utterly destroy them, that they might have no favor, but that he might destroy them, as Jehovah commanded Moses.
World English Bible
For it was of Yahweh to harden their hearts, to come against Israel in battle, that he might utterly destroy them, that they might have no favor, but that he might destroy them, as Yahweh commanded Moses.
Douay-Rheims
For it was the sentence of the Lord, that their hearts should be hardened, and they should fight against Israel, and fall, and should not deserve any clemency, and should be destroyed as the Lord had commanded Moses.
Geneva Bible (1599)
For it came of the Lord, to harden their heartes that they shoulde come against Israel in battell to the intent that they shoulde destroye them vtterly, and shewe them no mercie, but that they shoulde bring them to nought: as the Lord had commanded Moses.