Joshua 1:14

KJV

Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan; but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour, and help them;

KJV (with Strong's)

Your wives {H802}, your little ones {H2945}, and your cattle {H4735}, shall remain {H3427} in the land {H776} which Moses {H4872} gave {H5414} you on this side {H5676} Jordan {H3383}; but ye shall pass {H5674} before {H6440} your brethren {H251} armed {H2571}, all the mighty {H1368} men of valour {H2428}, and help {H5826} them;

Complete Jewish Bible

Your wives, your little ones and your livestock will stay in the land Moshe gave you on the east side of the Yarden; but you are to cross over armed as a fighting force ahead of your brothers, to help them;

Berean Standard Bible

Your wives, your young children, and your livestock may remain in the land that Moses gave you on this side of the Jordan. But all your mighty men of valor must be armed for battle to cross over ahead of your brothers and help them,

American Standard Version

Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall abide in the land which Moses gave you beyond the Jordan; but ye shall pass over before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valor, and shall help them;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 1:14 stands as a crucial articulation of covenantal obligation and communal solidarity as Israel transitions from wilderness wandering to the conquest of Canaan. This verse specifically addresses the Transjordanian tribes—Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh—who had already received their territorial inheritance east of the Jordan River. It reiterates their solemn commitment to actively participate in the military campaign to secure the land for the remaining tribes, emphasizing that their settled peace was contingent upon their shared responsibility in the broader national endeavor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 1:14 is embedded within the opening chapter of the book of Joshua, which serves as a pivotal transition point in Israel's history. Following God's direct commission to Joshua in [Joshua 1:1-9](/joshua/1-1 "Joshua 1:1-9 - God's Commission to Joshua"), where he is exhorted to be strong and courageous and to meditate on the Law, Joshua immediately begins to organize the nation for the imminent crossing of the Jordan. Verses [Joshua 1:10-11](/joshua/1-10 "Joshua 1:10-11 - Joshua's Orders to the Officers") see Joshua issuing general orders, while [Joshua 1:12-18](/joshua/1-12 "Joshua 1:12-18 - Joshua's Charge to the Transjordan Tribes") specifically addresses the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, reminding them of their prior agreement with Moses. Verse 14 is the heart of this reminder, detailing the precise nature of their commitment before their brethren respond with full affirmation of their loyalty to Joshua and God's command in [Joshua 1:16-18](/joshua/1-16 "Joshua 1:16-18 - The People's Pledge of Obedience"). This careful structuring highlights the importance of unity and fulfilled promises before the grand enterprise of conquest can commence.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The historical backdrop is the immediate aftermath of Moses' death and the cusp of Israel's entry into Canaan, approximately 1400-1200 BC, depending on dating schemes. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had chosen to settle in the fertile lands east of the Jordan River (Transjordan) due to their large livestock holdings, as detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Settlement of the Transjordan Tribes"). Moses had granted their request on the condition that their able-bodied men would cross the Jordan with the other tribes and assist in the conquest of Canaan until the entire land was subdued. This agreement was a crucial covenant, reflecting the tribal structure of Israel and the expectation of mutual support within the twelve tribes. Culturally, military campaigns were often collective efforts, and the concept of "holy war" was central to Israel's understanding of God's command to dispossess the Canaanites. The act of "passing before your brethren armed" signifies their role as vanguard, leading the way into battle, a position of honor and significant risk.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several foundational themes within the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is **Covenant Fidelity and Promise Keeping**, as it directly recalls and enforces the agreement made with Moses, emphasizing the sacredness of commitments before God and the community. This theme resonates with God's own faithfulness to His covenant promises to Abraham regarding the land (e.g., [Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham")). Another critical theme is **Unity and Mutual Support**, highlighting that the success of the entire nation depended on the solidarity and shared effort of all its parts. The call for the Transjordan tribes to "help them" (their brethren) embodies the principle that the strong should assist the weak, and that a shared vision requires shared sacrifice. This collective endeavor was essential for the ultimate possession of God's promise. Finally, the verse speaks to **Leadership and Obedience**, as Joshua, stepping into Moses' formidable role, demonstrates firm leadership by upholding the previous agreement. The expectation of the tribes' obedience signifies their trust in Joshua's leadership, which was a direct extension of God's will for the nation, as seen in God's charge to Joshua in [Joshua 1:7-9](/joshua/1-7 "Joshua 1:7-9 - Be Strong and Courageous").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **"mighty men of valour" (Hebrew, _gibborê haḥayil'_):** This phrase is a compound noun, literally meaning "heroes of strength" or "warriors of might." It refers not merely to able-bodied men, but specifically to those who are strong, brave, capable, and proven warriors. In military contexts, it denotes the elite fighting force, those who are most skilled and courageous in battle. Joshua's use of this specific designation underscores the significant and crucial contribution expected from these tribes—their best and most experienced fighters were required to lead the vanguard and bear the brunt of the initial military campaigns, not just any men.
* **"help them" (Hebrew, _vaʿăzartem'_):** Derived from the verb עָזַר (_ʿāzar_), meaning "to help, assist, support, succor." This term highlights the core obligation of the Transjordanian tribes. It's not merely about passive presence or symbolic participation, but active, tangible assistance in the arduous task of conquest. The verb implies coming alongside and providing necessary aid, emphasizing the corporate responsibility and inter-tribal solidarity required for the successful fulfillment of God's promise to Israel. Their help was essential for the other tribes to secure their own inheritance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle, shall remain in the land which Moses gave you on this side Jordan;"**: This clause establishes the condition for the Transjordanian tribes' settlement. Their families, their most vulnerable members, and their economic assets (livestock) were permitted to stay in the fertile lands east of the Jordan River, which had been formally allotted to them by Moses. This highlights the secure provision for their domestic life and livelihood, yet it simultaneously sets up the contrast with the men's immediate obligation to depart from this comfort.
* **"but ye shall pass before your brethren armed, all the mighty men of valour,"**: This introduces the imperative and the specific group being addressed. The conjunction "but" (אַךְ, _ʾakh_) signifies a strong contrast or exception to the previous clause. The "mighty men of valour" from these tribes were not to remain but were commanded to "pass before" their brethren. This implies they were to go in the vanguard, leading the way, equipped for battle ("armed"). Their role was to be at the forefront of the military advance, demonstrating courage and commitment.
* **"and help them;"**: This final, concise clause states the ultimate purpose and essence of their obligation. Their crossing and leading in battle were not for their own glory but explicitly "to help" their fellow Israelites. This emphasizes the communal aspect of the conquest and the principle of mutual aid, ensuring that all tribes would receive their promised inheritance through collective effort and shared sacrifice.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 1:14 employs several effective literary devices to convey its message. **Contrast** is prominent, setting the security and comfort of "your wives, your little ones, and your cattle" remaining "on this side Jordan" against the demanding call for the "mighty men of valour" to "pass before your brethren armed." This highlights the sacrifice and commitment required. The phrase "all the mighty men of valour" functions as a form of **Emphasis** or **Hyperbole**, underscoring the high caliber of contribution expected, not just any men, but the most capable warriors. This also serves as a **Synecdoche**, where "mighty men of valour" represents the active military contingent of the Transjordanian tribes. Furthermore, the verse implicitly utilizes **Covenant Language**, as it is a direct reiteration and enforcement of a prior agreement made with Moses, appealing to the tribes' sense of honor and obligation to their word. The structure of the verse, moving from what is permitted to what is required, creates a sense of **Anticipation** for the impending military action and the unity necessary for its success.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 1:14 profoundly illustrates the theological principle of corporate responsibility within the covenant community. God's promises to Israel, particularly concerning the land, were not to be realized through individualistic pursuits but through the unified, obedient effort of the entire nation. The Transjordanian tribes, despite having secured their own inheritance, were not absolved from their duty to their brethren. This highlights that individual blessings often come with communal obligations, and the well-being of the whole body is paramount. Their willingness to "pass before their brethren armed" was an act of faith in God's overarching plan and a demonstration of love for their fellow Israelites, ensuring that the divine promise of a settled land would be fully realized for all. This principle transcends the military context, speaking to the ongoing call for believers to bear one another's burdens and contribute to the common good of God's people.

* [Numbers 32:20-22](/numbers/32-20 "Moses' Agreement with the Transjordan Tribes")
* [Deuteronomy 7:9](/deuteronomy/7-9 "God's Faithfulness to His Covenant")
* [1 Corinthians 12:25-27](/1_corinthians/12-25 "The Unity of the Body of Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 1:14 offers timeless lessons for believers today, challenging us to consider our commitments and our role within the broader community of faith. Just as the Transjordan tribes were called to prioritize the corporate good over immediate personal comfort, we too are often called to step out of our zones of security and use our strengths and resources to support others in their struggles or to advance a common, righteous cause. This verse reminds us that Christian life is not solely about individual salvation but also about communal responsibility and shared mission. It calls us to be people of integrity, honoring our word and fulfilling our commitments, whether to God or to others. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of unity in purpose; the success of God's kingdom work often depends on the willing participation and mutual aid of all its members, recognizing that when one part of the body strives or suffers, the whole body should be engaged. Our "mighty men of valour" moments often involve sacrificing personal convenience for the greater good of God's people and His mission in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "land" or blessings have I received that might tempt me to settle into comfort rather than engaging in shared kingdom work?**
* **In what ways am I being called to "pass before my brethren armed," using my strengths and resources to help others in the body of Christ or the wider world?**
* **How does my commitment to God's promises manifest in my willingness to fulfill my commitments to others, even when it requires personal sacrifice?**
* **What are the "little ones and cattle" (comforts, possessions, family time) that I might need to temporarily set aside to serve a greater purpose for the community of faith?**

### FAQ
**Why were these specific tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh) singled out in this verse?**

Answer: These tribes were singled out because they had previously requested and received their inheritance of land on the east side of the Jordan River, as detailed in [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - The Settlement of the Transjordan Tribes"). Moses had granted their request on the explicit condition that their able-bodied men would cross the Jordan with the other tribes and assist in the conquest of Canaan until the entire land was subdued and all tribes had received their inheritance. Joshua 1:14 is Joshua's direct reminder and enforcement of this prior, solemn agreement, ensuring that the promise made to Moses would be fulfilled before they fully settled into their own peace and prosperity.

**What does "pass before your brethren armed" signify?**

Answer: This phrase signifies their role as the vanguard or leading contingent in the military campaign. To "pass before" means to go ahead or lead the way. Being "armed" indicates they were prepared for immediate battle. This was not a symbolic gesture but a demand for their most capable warriors to be at the forefront of the dangerous task of dispossessing the Canaanites and securing the land for all of Israel. It underscored their commitment to shared sacrifice and leadership in the perilous initial stages of the conquest, demonstrating their loyalty and fulfilling their covenantal obligation to their fellow tribes.

**How does this verse relate to the concept of unity in the Bible?**

Answer: Joshua 1:14 strongly emphasizes the theme of unity and corporate responsibility within the nation of Israel. The success of the conquest and the fulfillment of God's promise of the land depended on the solidarity of all twelve tribes. The Transjordanian tribes, despite having their own land, were called to a higher unity, recognizing that their individual well-being was intertwined with the corporate well-being of the entire nation. This principle of mutual aid and shared effort for a common goal is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, from the early church's communal life in [Acts 2:44-45](/acts/2-44 "Acts 2:44-45 - The Early Church's Communal Life") to Paul's teaching on the body of Christ in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Gifts and Unity in the Body of Christ"), where each part contributes to the health and function of the whole.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 1:14, while rooted in ancient Israel's military and covenantal context, finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus and the nature of His kingdom. The "land" promised to Israel foreshadows the spiritual inheritance and eternal rest found in Christ, a rest not achieved by human might alone but by God's grace through faith ([Hebrews 4:1-11](/hebrews/4-1 "Hebrews 4:1-11 - The Promise of Rest")). Jesus is the ultimate "mighty man of valour," the true Joshua (Yeshua), who not only leads His people into their spiritual inheritance but also "passes before" them, going ahead to conquer sin, death, and the grave through His own sacrifice ([Hebrews 2:10](/hebrews/2-10 "Hebrews 2:10 - Jesus, the Pioneer of Salvation")). He fulfills the covenant promises of God, not just for a nation, but for all who believe ([2 Corinthians 1:20](/2_corinthians/1-20 "2 Corinthians 1:20 - God's Promises are 'Yes' in Christ")). Furthermore, the call for the Transjordan tribes to "help them" prefigures the corporate nature of the Church, the body of Christ, where believers are called to live not for themselves but to sacrificially serve and support one another ([Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear One Another's Burdens")) and to collectively advance the Kingdom of God. Just as the tribes left their comfort for the common good, so too are believers called to leave the "comfort" of self-interest to participate in the spiritual conquest of the world for Christ, following the ultimate example of the [Lamb of God who laid down His life](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life").

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 17:4

And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication:

Exodus 13:18

But God led the people about, [through] the way of the wilderness of the Red sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed out of the land of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 20:8

And the officers shall speak further unto the people, and they shall say, What man [is there that is] fearful and fainthearted? let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren's heart faint as well as his heart.