What number verse is Joshua 10:43 in the Bible?

Joshua 10:43 is the 6,108th verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Joshua 10:43 sits at position 6,108.

Translation

King James Version

And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to Gilgal.

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

And Joshua ^H3091 returned ^H7725, and all Israel ^H3478 with him, unto the camp ^H4264 to Gilgal ^H1537.

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

Then Y'hoshua returned, and all Isra'el with him, to the camp at Gilgal.

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

Then Joshua returned with all Israel to the camp at Gilgal.

Ask

American Standard Version

And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to Gilgal.

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, to the camp to Gilgal.

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

Afterward, Ioshua and all Israel with him returned vnto the campe in Gilgal.

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

and Joshua turneth back, and all Israel with him, unto the camp at Gilgal.

Ask

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Joshua 10:43 serves as a pivotal concluding statement to the triumphant Southern Campaign, meticulously detailing Joshua's strategic leadership in returning the entire Israelite army to their established and spiritually significant base camp at Gilgal. This verse not only signifies the successful completion of a major phase of conquest but also powerfully underscores the divine assistance and military prowess that characterized Israel's initial territorial gains in Canaan, reaffirming Gilgal's critical role as both a logistical staging ground and a profound spiritual center for the nascent nation.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: Joshua 10:43 provides the narrative culmination of the extensive Southern Campaign, a series of decisive battles meticulously detailed from Joshua 10:1. Immediately preceding this verse, the text recounts Joshua's comprehensive and divinely assisted defeat of a formidable coalition of five Amorite kings who had attacked Gibeon. This campaign was marked by extraordinary divine intervention, including a miraculous hailstorm that decimated the enemy forces and the unprecedented cosmic event of the sun and moon standing still, enabling Israel to achieve a complete and overwhelming victory. The preceding verses, specifically Joshua 10:40-42, emphasize the thoroughness of the conquest, highlighting that Joshua "left none remaining" and "utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded." Therefore, verse 43 marks the successful completion of this major military operation, with Joshua leading the victorious army back to their primary base camp, signaling a moment of consolidation, rest, and preparation for the subsequent phases of the conquest.
Historical & Cultural Context: The return to Gilgal reflects not only sound military strategy but also the profound historical and cultural significance of the location. In the ancient Near East, it was customary for armies to return to a secure and established base after a campaign to regroup, rest, resupply, and prepare for future engagements. Gilgal, strategically located near the Jordan River, had served as the Israelites' very first encampment in Canaan following their miraculous crossing of the Jordan. Beyond its logistical utility, Gilgal was a site of immense spiritual importance. It was here that the new generation of Israelites, born in the wilderness, was circumcised, symbolically "rolling away the reproach of Egypt" (Joshua 5:9), and where they observed the Passover for the first time in the Promised Land (Joshua 5:10-11). This established Gilgal as a foundational place of covenant renewal, spiritual cleansing, and national identity for Israel. Its re-establishment as the base camp after intense warfare was thus a deeply symbolic return to their foundational identity and divine mandate, reinforcing God's continued presence and blessing.
Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout the book of Joshua. Firstly, it emphatically underscores the theme of Divine Victory and Fulfillment of Promise. The successful return to Gilgal after such a comprehensive and divinely aided conquest is a tangible demonstration of God's unwavering faithfulness in delivering the land and its inhabitants into Israel's hands, thereby fulfilling the ancient promises made to Abraham (Genesis 12:7) and explicitly reiterated to Joshua (Joshua 1:3-5). Secondly, the verse highlights Joshua's Exemplary Leadership. His diligent adherence to God's commands, his strategic military prowess, and his ability to lead the people effectively in both intense battle and orderly return to camp are consistently emphasized throughout the book, positioning him as a faithful and divinely appointed successor to Moses. Finally, the return to Gilgal reinforces The Enduring Significance of Gilgal itself. Far from being merely a temporary military encampment, Gilgal functions as a sacred space—a place of spiritual cleansing, covenant renewal, and a central point from which the conquest emanated and to which the victorious army consistently returned, symbolizing both a divinely granted rest and a readiness for the next phase of God's unfolding plan for Israel.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

Returned (Hebrew, shûwb', H7725): The verb שׁוּב (shûwb), a primitive root, signifies "to turn back," "to return," or "to restore." In the context of Joshua 10:43, it denotes the successful completion of a military campaign and the orderly, deliberate movement back to a designated base. This is not a retreat due to defeat but a strategic withdrawal after achieving objectives, implying discipline and successful culmination under Joshua's leadership. The term emphasizes the organized nature of the Israelite army's actions rather than a chaotic dispersal.
Camp (Hebrew, machăneh', H4264): The Hebrew word מַחֲנֶה (machăneh) refers to an "encampment," "camp," or "army." It denotes a settled, organized military base or a large body of people encamped together. The use of "camp" here highlights Gilgal's role as the central, established headquarters for the Israelite forces. It signifies stability, order, and a sustained presence in the land, serving as the point from which campaigns were launched and to which they returned, emphasizing the logistical and organizational backbone of their conquest.
Gilgal (Hebrew, Gilgâl', H1537): The name גִּלְגָּל (Gilgâl) is a proper noun, derived from a root meaning "to roll." As explained in Joshua 5:9, it was named because the Lord had "rolled away" the "reproach of Egypt" from Israel there. Thus, Gilgal is far more than a mere geographical location; it is a place of profound spiritual significance, representing covenant renewal, national identity, and divine cleansing. The act of returning to Gilgal was not merely a strategic maneuver but a deeply symbolic return to their spiritual roots and the very place where their covenant relationship with God was re-established and affirmed.

Verse Breakdown

"And Joshua returned": This initial clause immediately places emphasis on Joshua's central and active role as the divinely appointed leader. His return is not merely a personal movement but an action indicative of the entire army's disciplined and successful movement under his direct command. It unequivocally signifies the triumphant completion of the Southern Campaign, with Joshua having faithfully fulfilled his divinely assigned task.
"and all Israel with him": This phrase underscores the collective nature of the conquest and the remarkable unity of the Israelite people under Joshua's leadership. It highlights that the victory was a national effort, led by Joshua, but executed by the entire community, reflecting their shared obedience to God's commands and their unified participation in His grand plan. Furthermore, it implies the thoroughness and orderliness of the return—no one was left behind or scattered after the intense and demanding battles.
"unto the camp": This refers to the established military headquarters, emphasizing the order, discipline, and return to a state of readiness and organization after the intensity of warfare. It signifies a structured military operation rather than a chaotic or disorganized dispersal, reflecting the strategic acumen of Joshua and the disciplined nature of the Israelite forces.
"to Gilgal": This specifies the precise destination, a place rich in symbolic and spiritual meaning. Gilgal was the initial base camp after the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, the sacred site of the new generation's circumcision, and the place where the Passover was observed. Therefore, returning to Gilgal signifies a return to their spiritual and logistical center, a place of rest, reflection, and preparation for the subsequent phases of the conquest, all under the watchful and guiding hand of God.

Literary Devices

Joshua 10:43 effectively employs Narrative Closure and profound Symbolism. The verse provides a clear, concise, and definitive conclusion to the Southern Campaign, signaling the successful end of a major military phase and the fulfillment of God's specific command to conquer. This sense of closure is vital for the reader, marking a moment of rest and consolidation before the narrative progresses to future conquests. Furthermore, the explicit mention of "Gilgal" is deeply symbolic. As repeatedly established in the earlier chapters of the book, Gilgal is not merely a geographical location but a sacred space intrinsically linked with the removal of Egyptian reproach, the renewal of the covenant, and the celebration of the Passover. Its consistent mention throughout the early chapters of Joshua, and especially here as the ultimate destination of the victorious army, imbues it with profound Symbolism as the spiritual and logistical heart of the entire Israelite enterprise. The return to Gilgal thus symbolizes a return to foundational identity, divine favor, and renewed commitment after a period of intense divine activity and human obedience.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Joshua 10:43 culminates a powerful and undeniable demonstration of God's unwavering faithfulness and His active, miraculous involvement in fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel. The return to Gilgal, a place steeped in spiritual significance and covenant history, profoundly underscores that Israel's victories were not merely the result of military might or human strategy but were direct divine interventions, unequivocally confirming God's commitment to giving them the promised land. This act of returning to a spiritual base after intense warfare serves as a profound theological reminder that even in victory and triumph, God's people must consistently return to their ultimate source of strength, identity, and provision in Him, acknowledging His sovereign hand in all successes. It beautifully foreshadows the ultimate rest and eternal inheritance promised to God's people, secured not by human strength or earthly conquest, but by divine power, grace, and faithfulness.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Joshua's disciplined and purposeful return to Gilgal after achieving a major victory offers profound and practical insights for believers navigating their own spiritual journeys today. It highlights the indispensable need for spiritual grounding, intentional rest, and diligent regrouping after periods of intense spiritual warfare, demanding service, or significant personal challenge. Just as Israel returned to their spiritual hub to acknowledge God's hand, renew their covenant, and prepare for what was next, we too are called to regularly return to our "Gilgal"—a place or practice of consistent spiritual grounding, restorative rest, and profound renewal. This might manifest as setting aside dedicated time for deep prayer, immersing ourselves in the life-giving truths of Scripture, engaging in authentic and meaningful fellowship within the body of Christ, or simply resting in the quiet, sustaining presence of God. Such intentional spiritual discipline prevents burnout, cultivates a heart of deep gratitude, and continually reorients us to God's unfailing guidance, abundant provision, and sovereign control. It serves as a powerful reminder that all our victories, great or small, are ultimately from the Lord, and our strength for facing future challenges comes from continually returning to Him as our ultimate source of life, wisdom, and power.

Questions for Reflection

What is your "Gilgal"—your personal spiritual place or practice of rest, renewal, and re-centering—and how regularly do you intentionally return to it after periods of intense activity or spiritual challenge?
How does a deep acknowledgment of God as the ultimate source of all your successes and victories shape your approach to rest, regrouping, and future endeavors?
In what tangible ways can maintaining spiritual discipline, order, and a focus on God's presence, even (or especially) after a triumph, protect you from complacency, pride, or spiritual drift?

FAQ

Why was Gilgal so important to the Israelites, and why did they return there after the Southern Campaign?

Answer: Gilgal held immense and multifaceted significance for the Israelites, serving as far more than just a military base. It was their very first encampment in Canaan after miraculously crossing the Jordan River, symbolizing the foundational beginning of their inheritance in the Promised Land. Crucially, it was at Gilgal that the new generation of Israelite males, born during the wilderness wandering, was circumcised, an act that symbolically removed the "reproach of Egypt" (Joshua 5:9) and renewed their covenant with God. Furthermore, it was there that they celebrated their first Passover in Canaan (Joshua 5:10), marking their full participation in God's redemptive history. Thus, Gilgal was a profound place of covenant renewal, spiritual cleansing, national identity formation, and a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness. Returning there after the intense Southern Campaign was not only a strategic move to their established and secure headquarters but also a deeply symbolic act. It signified a return to their spiritual roots, a place of divine favor and safety, allowing them to rest, regroup, and prepare for future campaigns from a position of both spiritual and logistical strength, all under the watchful eye of the Lord.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Joshua's successful conquest of the land and the subsequent return to Gilgal, a place of divinely ordained rest, spiritual cleansing, and covenant renewal, profoundly foreshadow the ultimate victory and eternal rest found exclusively in Jesus Christ. Just as Joshua, whose name means "Yahweh is salvation," led Israel to conquer their earthly enemies and enter their promised land, Christ, our greater Joshua, has accomplished a decisive and eternal victory over the ultimate enemies: sin, death, and the devil, through His perfect life, atoning crucifixion, and glorious resurrection (Colossians 2:15). His finished work on the cross secures for all who believe a spiritual inheritance and a true, eternal rest that the temporary land of Canaan could only dimly prefigure (Hebrews 4:9-10). The return to Gilgal, a place of cleansing and covenant establishment, points forward to the new covenant established in Christ's precious blood, where believers are cleansed from sin not by physical circumcision but by spiritual faith and baptism into His death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). Our "return to Gilgal" in the Christian life is therefore a continual, joyful turning to Christ, our ultimate spiritual center, for rest, profound renewal, and empowering strength, trusting completely in His completed work and eagerly looking forward to the full, glorious realization of our eternal inheritance in the new heavens and new earth (Revelation 21:1-4).

Copy as

Commentary on Joshua 10 verses 28–43

28 ¶ And that day Joshua took Makkedah, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and the king thereof he utterly destroyed, them, and all the souls that were therein; he let none remain: and he did to the king of Makkedah as he did unto the king of Jericho.

29 Then Joshua passed from Makkedah, and all Israel with him, unto Libnah, and fought against Libnah:

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.

31 And Joshua passed from Libnah, and all Israel with him, unto Lachish, and encamped against it, and fought against it:

32 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.

33 Then Horam king of Gezer came up to help Lachish; and Joshua smote him and his people, until he had left him none remaining.

34 And from Lachish Joshua passed unto Eglon, and all Israel with him; and they encamped against it, and fought against it:

35 And they took it on that day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein he utterly destroyed that day, according to all that he had done to Lachish.

36 And Joshua went up from Eglon, and all Israel with him, unto Hebron; and they fought against it:

37 And they took it, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and the king thereof, and all the cities thereof, and all the souls that were therein; he left none remaining, according to all that he had done to Eglon; but destroyed it utterly, and all the souls that were therein.

38 And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, to Debir; and fought against it:

39 And he took it, and the king thereof, and all the cities thereof; and they smote them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed all the souls that were therein; he left none remaining: as he had done to Hebron, so he did to Debir, and to the king thereof; as he had done also to Libnah, and to her king.

40 So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the vale, and of the springs, and all their kings: he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded.

41 And Joshua smote them from Kadeshbarnea even unto Gaza, and all the country of Goshen, even unto Gibeon.

42 And all these kings and their land did Joshua take at one time, because the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel.

43 And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to Gilgal.

I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points

We are here informed how Joshua improved the late glorious victory he had obtained and the advantages he had gained by it, and to do this well is a general's praise.

I. Here is a particular account of the several cities which he immediately made himself master of. 1. The cities of three of the kings whom he had conquered in the field he went and took possession of, Lachish (Jos 10:31, Jos 10:32), Eglon (Jos 10:34, Jos 10:35), and Hebron, Jos 10:36, Jos 10:37. The other two, Jerusalem and Jarmuth, were not taken at this time; perhaps his forces were either so much fatigued with what they had done or so well content with what they had got that they had no mind to attack those places, and so they let slip the fairest opportunity they could ever expect of reducing them with ease, which afterwards was not done without difficulty, Jdg 1:8; Sa2 5:6. 2. Three other cities, and royal cities too, he took: Makkedah, into the neighbourhood of which the five kings had fled, which brought Joshua and his forces thither in pursuit of them, and so hastened its ruin (Jos 10:28), Libnah (Jos 10:29, Jos 10:30), and Debir, Jos 10:38, Jos 10:39. 3. One king that brought in his forces for the relief of Lachish, that had lost its king, proved to meddle to his own hurt; it was Horam king of Gezer, who, either in friendship to his neighbours or for his own security, offered to stop the progress of Joshua's arms, and was cut off with all his forces, Jos 10:33. Thus wicked men are often snared in their counsels, and, by opposing God in the way of his judgments, bring them the sooner on their own heads.

II. A general account of the country which was hereby reduced and brought into Israel's hands (Jos 10:40-42), that part of the land of Canaan of which they first got possession, which lay south of Jerusalem, and afterwards fell, for the most part, to the lot of the tribe of Judah. Observe in this narrative,

1.The great speed Joshua made in taking these cities, which, some think, is intimated in the manner of relating it, which is quick and concise. He flew like lightning from place to place; and though they all stood it out to the last extremity, and none of these cities opened their gates to him, yet in a little time he got them all into his hands, summoned them, and seized them, the same day (Jos 10:28), or in two days, Jos 10:32. Now that they were struck with fear, by the defeat of their armies and the death of their kings, Joshua prudently followed his blow. See what a great deal of work may be done in a little time, if we will but be busy and improve our opportunities.

2.The great severity Joshua used towards those he conquered. He gave no quarter to man, woman, nor child, put to the sword all the souls (Jos 10:28, Jos 10:30, Jos 10:32, Jos 10:35, etc.), utterly destroyed all that breathed (Jos 10:40), and left none remaining. Nothing could justify this military execution but that herein they did as the Lord God of Israel commanded (Jos 10:40), which was sufficient not only to bear them out, and save them for the imputation of cruelty, but to sanctify what they did, and make it an acceptable piece of service to his justice. God would hereby, (1.) Manifest his hatred of the idolatries and other abominations which the Canaanites had been guilty of, and leave us to judge how great the provocation was which they had given him by the greatness of the destruction which was brought upon them when the measure of their iniquity was full. (2.) He would hereby magnify his love to his people Israel, in giving so many men for them, and people for their life, Isa 43:4. When the heathen are to be cast out to make room for this vine (Psa 80:8) divine justice appears more prodigal than ever of human blood, that the Israelites might find themselves for ever obliged to spend their lives to the glory of that God who had sacrificed so many of the lives of his creatures to their interest. (3.) Hereby was typified the final and eternal destruction of all the impenitent implacable enemies of the Lord Jesus, who, having slighted the riches of his grace, must for ever feel the weight of his wrath, and shall have judgment without mercy. Nations that forget God shall be turned into hell, and no reproach at all to God's infinite goodness.

3.The great success of this expedition. The spoil of these cities was now divided among the men of war that plundered them; and the cities themselves, with the land about them, were shortly to be divided among the tribes, for the Lord fought for Israel, Jos 10:42. They could not have gotten the victory if God had not undertaken the battle; then we conquer when God fights for us; and, if he be for us, who can be against us?

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 28–43. Public domain.

Copy as

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

Copy as

Continue studying Joshua 10:43 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.