Joshua 7:13
Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against tomorrow: for thus saith the LORD God of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you.
Joshua 7:13 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse is a call to holiness and purification from sin. The Israelites are instructed to sanctify themselves and remove any accursed thing from among them before they face their enemies in battle. The presence of sin in their midst is preventing them from being successful in their endeavors. By purifying themselves and eliminating the sin from their camp, they will be able to stand strong and united against their enemies. This verse serves as a reminder that in order to achieve victory and success, one must first address any sin or disobedience in their lives. It emphasizes the importance of living a holy and righteous life in order to receive God's blessings and protection.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Joshua, God commands the Israelites to sanctify themselves in preparation for battle. The theological interpretation of this verse revolves around the idea of purity and consecration before going into battle, reflecting the importance of spiritual readiness and holiness in the face of challenges. The word "sanctify" in this context refers to setting oneself apart for God's purposes, purifying oneself from sin and unrighteousness. By removing the "accursed thing" from among them, the Israelites would be demonstrating their commitment to God and their willingness to obey His commands. The presence of sin or disobedience in their midst would hinder their ability to stand against their enemies, emphasizing the importance of holiness in the life of a believer. This verse serves as a reminder to all believers to continually examine their hearts, repent of sin, and consecrate themselves to God's service in order to experience victory in spiritual battles.
Joshua 7:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to-morrow: for thus saith Jehovah, the God of Israel, There is a devoted thing in the midst of thee, O Israel; thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the devoted thing from among you.
World English Bible
“Get up! Sanctify the people, and say, ‘Sanctify yourselves for tomorrow, for Yahweh, the God of Israel, says, “There is a devoted thing in your midst, Israel. You cannot stand before your enemies until you take away the devoted thing from among you.”
Douay-Rheims
Arise, sanctify the people, and say to them: Be ye sanctified against tomorrow: for thus saith the Lord God of Israel: The curse is in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thy enemies, till he be destroyed out of thee, that is defiled with this wickedness.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Vp therefore, sanctifie the people, and say, Sanctifie your selues against to morowe: for thus saith the Lord God of Israel, There is an execrable thing among you, O Israel, therefore ye cannot stand against your enemies, vntill ye haue put the execrable thing from among you.