Joshua 10:32

KJV

And the LORD delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel, which took it on the second day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that [were] therein, according to all that he had done to Libnah.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the LORD {H3068} delivered {H5414} Lachish {H3923} into the hand {H3027} of Israel {H3478}, which took {H3920} it on the second {H8145} day {H3117}, and smote {H5221} it with the edge {H6310} of the sword {H2719}, and all the souls {H5315} that were therein, according to all that he had done {H6213} to Libnah {H3841}.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI handed it over to Isra'el; he captured it the second day. He defeated it with the sword, everyone there, exactly as he had done to Livnah.

Berean Standard Bible

And the LORD delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel, and Joshua captured it on the second day. He put all the people to the sword, just as he had done to Libnah.

American Standard Version

and Jehovah delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel; and he took it on the second day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein, according to all that he had done to Libnah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 10:32 vividly narrates the swift and decisive capture of Lachish by the Israelite forces, a strategically formidable Canaanite city. This verse powerfully underscores the divine agency in Israel's conquest, explicitly stating that the Lord Himself "delivered" Lachish into their hands. The immediate and total destruction of the city and its inhabitants, mirroring the fate of Libnah, highlights the severe judgment enacted against the Canaanites as part of the divinely commanded _herem_, or utter devotion to destruction, designed to cleanse the land and safeguard Israel's spiritual purity from corrupting influences.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 10:32 is situated within the broader narrative of Joshua's southern campaign, a critical phase in Israel's conquest of Canaan. This campaign was initiated by the Gibeonite deception and the subsequent coalition of five Amorite kings (Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, Eglon) who attacked Gibeon. Following God's miraculous intervention, including the sun standing still for an entire day ([Joshua 10:13](/joshua/10-13 "Joshua 10:13 - The Sun Stands Still Over Gibeon")) and a devastating hailstorm ([Joshua 10:11](/joshua/10-11 "Joshua 10:11 - God's Hailstorm Against the Amorites")), Joshua systematically pursued and annihilated these Amorite kings and their fortified cities. The narrative progresses geographically from Makkedah ([Joshua 10:28](/joshua/10-28 "Joshua 10:28 - Capture of Makkedah")) to Libnah ([Joshua 10:29-30](/joshua/10-29 "Joshua 10:29-30 - The Fall of Libnah")), and then directly to Lachish, demonstrating a relentless and divinely empowered sweep through the southern territories. The concluding phrase, "according to all that he had done to Libnah," directly links this victory to the preceding one, establishing a consistent pattern of conquest and the application of divine judgment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Lachish was one of the most significant and heavily fortified cities in the Shephelah (foothills) region of ancient Canaan. Its strategic location on a vital trade route connecting Egypt with Mesopotamia made it a formidable stronghold and a crucial prize. Archaeological excavations at Tel Lachish have confirmed its immense size, elaborate defenses, and a long history of occupation, making its rapid fall in "the second day" a remarkable testament to the extraordinary circumstances of the Israelite conquest. The Canaanites were deeply entrenched in polytheistic worship, including abhorrent practices such as child sacrifice, ritual prostitution, and extensive idolatry, which were explicitly condemned by Yahweh. The concept of _herem_ (utter destruction), applied to Lachish and other cities, was a unique divine command specific to the conquest of Canaan. It served as both a righteous judgment against the pervasive wickedness of these nations and a prophylactic measure to prevent Israel from adopting their idolatrous and immoral ways, ensuring the purity of the land and the covenant people ([Deuteronomy 20:16-18](/deuteronomy/20-16 "Deuteronomy 20:16-18 - Command to Utterly Destroy the Nations")). This was not typical ancient warfare but a distinct act of divine retribution and covenant purification.

* **Key Themes:** Joshua 10:32 powerfully reinforces several central themes within the book of Joshua and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Deliverance and Faithfulness**, as the verse explicitly states, "the LORD delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel." This underscores that Israel's success was not primarily due to human might or strategic genius but to God's active intervention and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promise to give them the land ([Deuteronomy 3:22](/deuteronomy/3-22 "Deuteronomy 3:22 - The LORD Your God Fights for You")). This highlights God's **Sovereignty** over nations, history, and the outcomes of human endeavors. Another crucial theme is **Obedience and Conquest**, as Israel's diligent adherence to God's commands regarding the _herem_ was directly linked to their victories, demonstrating that divine blessing accompanies faithful obedience. Finally, the verse exemplifies the theme of **Divine Judgment and Holiness**, particularly through the practice of _herem_. The swift and complete destruction of Lachish served as a stark demonstration of God's absolute holiness and His righteous judgment against deep-seated human sin and spiritual rebellion, ensuring the land's purification and Israel's spiritual preservation from corrupting influences.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Delivered (Hebrew, נתן, _nâthan'_):** This verb, often translated as "gave" or "placed," is profoundly significant here. It emphasizes divine agency, indicating that the victory over Lachish was not merely a result of Israel's military prowess but a direct act of God's sovereign will and power. The Lord actively "handed over" the city, ensuring Israel's success in fulfilling His covenant promises. This underscores that the conquest was a theological event, a testament to God's active involvement in the history of His people, rather than solely a military achievement.
* **Smote (Hebrew, הכה, _nâkâh'_):** This verb typically means "to strike," "to hit," or "to kill." In the context of the conquest narratives, especially when combined with "with the edge of the sword" and "all the souls therein," it refers to the execution of the _herem_ command. It signifies a decisive, complete, and often violent destruction, indicating that no survivors were left, and the city's inhabitants were utterly annihilated as an act of divine judgment. It conveys the thoroughness and severity of the divine mandate.
* **Souls (Hebrew, נפש, _nephesh'_):** While often translated as "soul," _nephesh_ in this context refers to "living beings," "persons," or "lives." The phrase "all the souls that were therein" emphasizes the totality of the destruction, encompassing every living person within the city walls. This highlights the comprehensive nature of the _herem_ command, which extended to all inhabitants, regardless of age or status, as part of the collective judgment against the pervasive Canaanite wickedness and to prevent any future spiritual contamination of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the LORD delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the divine initiative and agency behind the conquest. It is not Israel's strength or strategy alone, but the direct intervention of "the LORD" (Yahweh, H3068) that secures the victory. Lachish, a formidable fortress, was "delivered" or "given" by God, emphasizing His sovereign control over the outcome of the battle and the fulfillment of His promises to His people. The victory is unequivocally attributed to God, not human might.
* **"which took it on the second day,"**: This phrase highlights the remarkable swiftness of the conquest. Given Lachish's significant fortifications and strategic importance, taking it in just two days indicates an extraordinary, almost miraculous, ease of victory. This swiftness further testifies to God's active hand in the battle, demonstrating His power to overcome even the most formidable obstacles quickly when His purposes are at work, often defying conventional military expectations.
* **"and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that [were] therein,"**: This part describes the execution of the _herem_ command. "Smote it with the edge of the sword" signifies a complete military defeat and the killing of its inhabitants in battle. "All the souls that were therein" clarifies the absolute totality of the destruction, leaving no survivors. This was a severe act of divine judgment against the deep-seated idolatry and moral corruption of the Canaanite peoples, intended to prevent the spread of their abominable practices to Israel and to purify the land.
* **"according to all that he had done to Libnah."**: This concluding phrase provides a direct comparison and establishes a pattern. It indicates that the conquest and destruction of Lachish followed the same protocol and thoroughness as the preceding capture of Libnah ([Joshua 10:29-30](/joshua/10-29 "Joshua 10:29-30 - The Fall of Libnah")). This formulaic language reinforces the consistent application of the _herem_ command throughout the southern campaign and underscores the systematic nature of God's judgment and Israel's faithful obedience to His specific instructions.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 10:32 employs several literary techniques to convey its powerful message effectively. The most prominent is **Divine Agency**, explicitly stated in "the LORD delivered Lachish," which immediately attributes the success not to human might or military strategy but to God's sovereign power and active intervention. This sets the theological tone for the entire conquest narrative, emphasizing that these events are part of God's unfolding plan. The phrase "according to all that he had done to Libnah" functions as **Formulaic Language** or a **Recurrence Motif**, establishing a pattern of conquest and destruction that reinforces the consistent application of the _herem_ command and the systematic nature of Israel's obedience. This repetition emphasizes the thoroughness of the judgment and the divine mandate behind it. Furthermore, the description of "smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein" uses **Totality Language** to convey the absolute and comprehensive nature of the destruction, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding the execution of the divine command and the severity of the judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 10:32 serves as a powerful testament to God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises and His righteous judgment against sin. The "delivery" of Lachish into Israel's hand unequivocally underscores the theological truth that ultimate victory belongs to the Lord, who actively fights for His people and empowers them to fulfill His will. This passage, alongside others detailing the _herem_, highlights God's absolute holiness and His intolerance for pervasive wickedness, demonstrating that His justice will ultimately prevail over all forms of rebellion against His righteous standards. While difficult for modern sensibilities, the severity of the judgment on Canaan reflects a unique, historical act of divine retribution against a culture steeped in abominable practices, serving to purify the land and protect Israel's spiritual integrity. It reminds us that God is both a loving deliverer and a righteous judge whose character demands a response of reverence and obedience.

* [Deuteronomy 7:1-6](/deuteronomy/7-1 "Deuteronomy 7:1-6 - Command to Destroy the Nations")
* [Psalm 44:3](/psalm/44-3 "Psalm 44:3 - Not by Their Own Sword")
* [Romans 1:18](/romans/1-18 "Romans 1:18 - God's Wrath Against Ungodliness")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 10:32 invites us to reflect deeply on the nature of God, His sovereignty, and His call to radical obedience. Just as the Lord delivered Lachish to Israel, we are reminded that our true victories, whether over personal sin, spiritual strongholds, or life's overwhelming challenges, come not from our own strength or ingenuity but from God's active intervention and power. This passage challenges us to trust in His divine deliverance, even when the obstacles seem insurmountable, recognizing that His power is made perfect in our weakness. Furthermore, the uncompromising nature of the _herem_ command, though specific to ancient Israel, prompts us to consider the seriousness with which God views sin. For believers today, this translates into a call for spiritual vigilance and a radical commitment to "smite" or "put to death" the sinful desires and practices within our own lives that threaten our spiritual purity and draw us away from God ([Colossians 3:5](/colossians/3-5 "Colossians 3:5 - Put to Death Earthly Things")). It is a call to uncompromising holiness, recognizing that lingering sin can corrupt our walk with God and hinder our effectiveness for His kingdom. Ultimately, this verse encourages us to align our lives with God's purposes, trusting in His power to deliver and striving for holiness in every area of our being.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to trust God for "deliverance" from seemingly insurmountable obstacles, acknowledging His sovereign power?**
* **What "strongholds" or persistent sinful patterns in your life need to be "smitten with the edge of the sword"—utterly put to death—for your spiritual health and purity?**
* **How does understanding God's righteous judgment in passages like Joshua 10:32 deepen your appreciation for His abundant grace and mercy extended to us in Christ?**

### FAQ

**What was the significance of Lachish, and why was its capture important for Israel?**

Answer: Lachish was one of the most important and heavily fortified Canaanite cities in the Shephelah region, controlling key trade routes and serving as a major administrative and military center. Its capture was strategically crucial for Israel's southern campaign, as it effectively broke the back of Canaanite resistance in the area and secured a vital part of the promised land. Its fall, especially in just "the second day," demonstrated the overwhelming power of God at work with Israel, validating His promise to deliver the land into their hands.

**What does "smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein" mean in the context of the conquest?**

Answer: This phrase describes the execution of the _herem_ (חרם) command, often translated as "utter destruction" or "devoted to destruction." It was a unique divine directive specifically for the conquest of Canaan, signifying that everything in certain cities – people, animals, and sometimes possessions – was to be completely destroyed or set apart for God in a way that rendered it unusable by Israel. This was not ordinary warfare but a specific act of divine judgment against the extreme wickedness and idolatry of the Canaanites, intended to cleanse the land and prevent Israel from being corrupted by their abominable practices ([Deuteronomy 20:16-18](/deuteronomy/20-16 "Deuteronomy 20:16-18 - The Command for Utter Destruction")).

**Why did God command such severe judgment, including the killing of "all the souls"?**

Answer: The severe judgment, including the complete destruction of the inhabitants, was a unique and extraordinary act of divine justice against the Canaanite nations. For centuries, they had practiced extreme wickedness, including child sacrifice, ritual prostitution, and pervasive idolatry, thus filling up the measure of their iniquity ([Genesis 15:16](/genesis/15-16 "Genesis 15:16 - The Iniquity of the Amorites Not Yet Complete")). This was a long-deferred judgment, not an arbitrary act. Furthermore, it served a prophylactic purpose: to prevent Israel from being corrupted by these abominable practices and to preserve their unique identity as God's holy people, set apart to worship Him alone. It underscored God's absolute holiness and His intolerance for sin that deeply defiled the land and its inhabitants.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 10:32 describes a physical conquest and a historical act of divine judgment, its theological undercurrents find profound fulfillment in Christ. Jesus is the ultimate "Lord who delivers," not from earthly enemies and fortified cities, but from the spiritual strongholds of sin, death, and the devil ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from the Dominion of Darkness")). Just as Lachish was "delivered into the hand of Israel" by divine power, so too are believers delivered from the dominion of darkness into the kingdom of God's beloved Son through Christ's decisive victory on the cross ([Hebrews 2:14-15](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14-15 - Jesus Destroys the Power of Death")). The concept of _herem_, the utter destruction of that which is anathema to God, is spiritually reinterpreted in the New Covenant. Believers are called to "put to death" (a spiritual "smoting with the edge of the sword") the old self, with its sinful desires and practices, so that they may live a new life in Christ ([Romans 6:6](/romans/6-6 "Romans 6:6 - Our Old Self Crucified with Him") and [Ephesians 4:22-24](/ephesians/4-22 "Ephesians 4:22-24 - Put Off the Old Self and Put On the New")). Jesus, the true Joshua, leads His people in a spiritual conquest, not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness, ensuring a complete victory for those who trust in Him ([Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Our Struggle Against Spiritual Forces")). The swiftness of Lachish's fall foreshadows the decisive and complete nature of Christ's victory, which secured salvation "once for all" ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Once for All")). In Christ, God's judgment against sin is fully satisfied, and His deliverance is eternally secured for all who believe.

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.