Joshua 14:12

Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced: if so be the LORD [will be] with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.

Now therefore give {H5414} me this mountain {H2022}, whereof the LORD {H3068} spake {H1696} in that day {H3117}; for thou heardest {H8085} in that day {H3117} how the Anakims {H6062} were there, and that the cities {H5892} were great {H1419} and fenced {H1219}: if so be {H194} the LORD {H3068} will be with {H854} me, then I shall be able to drive them out {H3423}, as the LORD {H3068} said {H1696}.

Therefore, give me this hill, the one ADONAI spoke about on that day; for on that day you heard how the 'Anakim were there with great, fortified cities; perhaps ADONAI will be with me, and I will drive them away, as ADONAI said."

Now therefore give me this hill country that the LORD promised me on that day, for you yourself heard then that the Anakim were there, with great and fortified cities. Perhaps with the LORD’s help I will drive them out, as the LORD has spoken.”

Now therefore give me this hill-country, whereof Jehovah spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakim were there, and cities great and fortified: it may be that Jehovah will be with me, and I shall drive them out, as Jehovah spake.

Commentary

Joshua 14:12 presents Caleb, now 85 years old, boldly claiming his inheritance in the Promised Land. Despite the presence of formidable giants and fortified cities, Caleb's faith in God's promise and presence empowers him to request the challenging territory of Hebron, confident that the Lord will enable him to conquer it.

Context

This verse is spoken during the division of Canaan among the Israelite tribes, forty-five years after Israel left Egypt and faced the initial reconnaissance of the land. Caleb, one of the two faithful spies (along with Joshua) who brought back a positive report, stands out. While the other ten spies instilled fear by focusing on the strength of the inhabitants, particularly the Anakims, Caleb and Joshua declared that Israel could overcome them because God was with them (Numbers 14:9). As a result of his unwavering faith, God promised Caleb that he would inherit the land upon which he had trodden (Numbers 14:24 and Deuteronomy 1:36). Now, after years of wilderness wandering and conquest, Caleb reminds Joshua of this specific promise and requests the very mountain where the Anakims resided, a testament to his enduring courage and trust.

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Faith: Caleb's request demonstrates profound faith, not just in God's past promises, but in His continued ability to fulfill them, even against overwhelming odds. His confidence is not in his own strength, but in God's.
  • Courage and Perseverance: At an advanced age, Caleb does not shy away from the most challenging territory. He embodies a spirit of determination to claim what God had promised him, regardless of the obstacles.
  • Divine Empowerment: The phrase "if so be the LORD will be with me" is key. Caleb recognizes that his success depends entirely on God's presence and power, not on his own might or the perceived weakness of the enemy.
  • Inheriting God's Promises: This verse highlights the principle that faithfulness leads to the fulfillment of divine promises. Caleb's long-standing commitment to God is rewarded with the opportunity to possess his promised inheritance.

Linguistic Insights

The term "Anakims" (Hebrew: ‘Anaqim) refers to a race of giants, descendants of Anak, known for their imposing stature and strength. Their presence was a major deterrent for the other Israelite spies, but Caleb's bold declaration to drive them out underscores his extraordinary faith in God's superior power.

Practical Application

Caleb's story in Joshua 14:12 serves as a powerful encouragement for believers today. It teaches us to:

  • Face Challenges with Faith: Whatever "giants" or "fortified cities" we encounter in life—whether spiritual, personal, or professional—we are called to confront them with faith in God's promises, not fear.
  • Trust in God's Presence: Our ability to overcome obstacles is not dependent on our own strength or resources, but on the assurance that "the LORD will be with me." This presence guarantees victory.
  • Claim Our Inheritance: Just as Caleb claimed his physical inheritance, believers are encouraged to claim their spiritual inheritance in Christ, which includes victory over sin, spiritual blessings, and eternal life (Ephesians 1:3).
  • Persevere Through Time: Caleb's example reminds us that faithfulness over a long period, even decades, is honored by God. Age or past failures do not disqualify us from fulfilling God's purposes.
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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 11:33 (8 votes)

    Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,

  • Philippians 4:13 (8 votes)

    I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

  • Numbers 13:33 (7 votes)

    And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, [which come] of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.

  • Numbers 13:28 (6 votes)

    Nevertheless the people [be] strong that dwell in the land, and the cities [are] walled, [and] very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.

  • Romans 8:31 (5 votes)

    ¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?

  • Joshua 15:14 (5 votes)

    And Caleb drove thence the three sons of Anak, Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, the children of Anak.

  • Psalms 44:3 (4 votes)

    For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them.