Joshua 18:3

KJV

And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, How long [are] ye slack to go to possess the land, which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you?

KJV (with Strong's)

And Joshua {H3091} said {H559} unto the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478}, How long are ye slack {H7503} to go {H935} to possess {H3423} the land {H776}, which the LORD {H3068} God {H430} of your fathers {H1} hath given {H5414} you?

Complete Jewish Bible

Y'hoshua said to the people of Isra'el, "How long will you delay going in to take possession of the land which ADONAI the God of your ancestors has given you?

Berean Standard Bible

So Joshua said to the Israelites, “How long will you put off entering and possessing the land that the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you?

American Standard Version

And Joshua said unto the children of Israel, How long are ye slack to go in to possess the land, which Jehovah, the God of your fathers, hath given you?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 18:3 captures the prophet-leader Joshua's impassioned rebuke and exhortation to the seven remaining Israelite tribes who, despite significant victories and divine promise, had grown lethargic in fully occupying their allotted portions of the Promised Land. This verse highlights the tension between God's sovereign gift and humanity's responsibility to actively appropriate and possess what has been divinely bestowed, urging the Israelites to overcome their complacency and complete the task of inheritance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 18:3 is situated at a critical juncture in the book of Joshua, following the initial division of land for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh east of the Jordan, and the establishment of the Tabernacle at Shiloh, signifying a central place of worship and national identity ([Joshua 18:1](/joshua/18-1 "Joshua 18:1 - Tabernacle at Shiloh Established at Shiloh")). Chapters 13-19 meticulously detail the land distribution among the tribes. While significant military victories had been achieved under Joshua's leadership, the full occupation of Canaan was far from complete. This verse marks a transition from the general conquest phase to the specific responsibility of each tribe to "possess" their inheritance. It sets the stage for the detailed tribal allotments that follow in the remainder of the chapter and subsequent chapters, culminating in Joshua's own inheritance and the final charges to Israel. The immediate context reveals that the land was surveyed *after* this exhortation, indicating Joshua's proactive leadership in addressing their inaction.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The period described in Joshua is the conquest and settlement of Canaan, typically dated to the late Bronze Age (roughly 1400-1200 BC). The Israelites, having endured forty years of wilderness wandering, were now a new generation, poised to inherit the land promised to their forefathers. They were deeply rooted in their covenant identity as the people of Yahweh. The land of Canaan was inhabited by various city-states and peoples (Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, Jebusites) with established cultures, polytheistic religions, and formidable military capabilities. The concept of "possessing" land was not merely about physical occupation but also about establishing dominion, clearing out idolatry, and living in accordance with the covenant, thereby fulfilling God's promise to Abraham ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "Genesis 12:7 - God's Promise to Abraham")). The "slackness" likely stemmed from a combination of war weariness after years of conflict, the perceived strength of the remaining inhabitants, and perhaps a desire to settle into a more comfortable existence after years of nomadic life and battle.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Promise and Faithfulness**, as the land is explicitly stated as "which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you," echoing God's unwavering covenant with the patriarchs ([Genesis 15:18](/genesis/15-18 "Genesis 15:18 - God's Covenant with Abraham")). Secondly, it highlights **Human Responsibility and Obedience**, demonstrating that divine promises often require human action, diligence, and faith for their full realization. The "slackness" directly contrasts with the active "going to possess" required. Thirdly, it touches upon the theme of **Spiritual Lethargy and Apathy**, warning against the dangers of complacency in the face of God's blessings and commands, a recurring challenge for God's people. Finally, it foreshadows the **Consequences of Incomplete Obedience**, as the failure to fully dispossess the Canaanites would lead to ongoing struggles, spiritual compromise, and a lack of complete rest for Israel in later generations ([Judges 2:2-3](/judges/2-2 "Judges 2:2-3 - Consequences of Disobedience")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Slack (Hebrew, _râphâh'_):** This verb (H7503) means "to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative); abate, cease, consume, draw (toward evening), fail, (be) faint, be (wax) feeble, forsake, idle, leave, let alone (go, down), (be) slack, stay, be still, be slothful, (be) weak(-en)." In this context, it vividly describes the Israelites' lethargy, hesitation, and lack of resolve in fulfilling their divine mandate. It points to a spiritual lassitude that prevents them from seizing their inheritance, indicating a failure to exert the necessary effort.
* **Possess (Hebrew, _yârash'_):** This verb (H3423) means "to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place); by implication, to seize, to rob, to inherit; also to expel, to impoverish, to ruin." Here, it emphasizes the active, deliberate, and sometimes forceful effort required to fully occupy the land that God had already granted them. It signifies taking rightful ownership and establishing dominion, not merely passive reception but active appropriation.
* **Given (Hebrew, _nâthan'_):** This verb (H5414) means "to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)." It underscores the divine origin of the land as a gracious gift from the LORD. This word establishes the foundational truth that the land is not something the Israelites earned or conquered by their own might alone, but a sovereign provision from God, which then necessitates their responsive action.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Joshua said unto the children of Israel":** This opening clause establishes Joshua's divinely appointed authority as leader and spokesman for God. His address is direct, public, and intended for the entire community, underscoring the seriousness of the issue at hand. It highlights his role as a faithful intercessor and motivator, challenging the people to align their actions with God's will and purpose.
* **"How long [are] ye slack to go to possess the land":** This rhetorical question expresses Joshua's profound frustration and disappointment. The phrase "How long" implies a prolonged period of inaction and a sense of urgent need for change. "Slack" points to their spiritual and practical lethargy, their failure to exert the necessary effort to complete the task. The command "to go to possess" emphasizes the active, intentional, and physical effort required to take full ownership of the land. It is a powerful call to move from passive waiting to active, obedient engagement.
* **"which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you?":** This concluding clause provides the divine rationale and compelling motivation for their action. It reminds them that the land is not merely a territory to be conquered but a divine gift, rooted in the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The emphasis on "the LORD God of your fathers" connects their present responsibility to their historical covenant identity and God's unwavering faithfulness. The past tense "hath given" reinforces that the legal and theological title to the land was already theirs by divine decree; only the physical occupation remained.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 18:3 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message with urgency and impact. The most prominent is **Rhetorical Question**, "How long [are] ye slack to go to possess the land, which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you?" This question is not seeking information but rather serves as a strong rebuke and an urgent call to action, designed to stir the Israelites out of their complacency and provoke deep self-examination. It implies a sense of exasperation and disappointment on Joshua's part, mirroring God's own sentiment toward their inaction. Furthermore, there is a clear use of **Juxtaposition** between God's completed act of "giving" the land and Israel's incomplete act of "possessing" it. This stark contrast highlights the significant gap between divine provision and human responsibility, emphasizing that God's gifts require active appropriation. The phrase "the LORD God of your fathers" functions as a potent **Appeal to Authority and Heritage**, reminding the Israelites of their covenant identity and the faithfulness of the God who brought them out of Egypt and sovereignly promised them this land, thereby strengthening the imperative for immediate obedience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 18:3 serves as a profound theological statement on the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. God's promise and provision are absolute—He "hath given" the land. Yet, this divine gift does not negate the necessity of human effort, faith, and obedience to "possess" it. The Israelites' "slackness" reveals a spiritual apathy that hinders the full realization of God's blessings, demonstrating that even when God has provided abundantly, human inaction can prevent the appropriation of that provision. This principle extends beyond the physical land to all areas of God's promises, reminding believers that faith is not passive assent but active engagement with divine truth and purpose. It underscores that God's grace empowers, but does not eliminate, our diligent response.

* [Deuteronomy 8:18](/deuteronomy/8-18 "God Gives Power to Get Wealth")
* [Philippians 2:12-13](/philippians/2-12-13 "Work Out Your Salvation")
* [Hebrews 4:11](/hebrews/4-11 "Strive to Enter God's Rest")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 18:3 offers a timeless challenge to believers today, urging us to examine areas where we might be "slack" in appropriating the spiritual inheritance and callings God has graciously provided in Christ. Just as the physical land was a gift requiring active possession, so too are the spiritual blessings of salvation, sanctification, divine purpose, and the power of the Holy Spirit. This verse calls us out of spiritual lethargy, encouraging diligent pursuit of God's will, active engagement with His Word, and courageous faith in walking out our unique callings. It reminds us that while our salvation is entirely by grace, our growth and effectiveness in the Christian life require active participation, perseverance, and a refusal to settle for anything less than the full measure of what God has prepared for us. We are called to be co-laborers with God, not passive recipients, pressing forward with intentionality to realize the fullness of His kingdom in and through our lives.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your spiritual life might you be "slack" or complacent, failing to actively "possess" the spiritual inheritance God has given you?**
* **What fears, comforts, or weariness might be contributing to this spiritual lethargy, and how can you overcome them through faith and reliance on God's strength?**
* **How does understanding God's past faithfulness (the "God of your fathers") motivate you to act diligently and courageously in the present?**
* **What specific steps can you take this week to actively pursue or "possess" a promise or calling God has placed on your heart, moving from passive waiting to active engagement?**

### FAQ

**What does "slack" mean in this context, and why was it a problem?**

Answer: In Joshua 18:3, "slack" translates the Hebrew verb _râphâh'_ (H7503), which means to "sink," "relax," "let go," or "become weak." It describes a state of spiritual and practical lethargy, a lack of energy, diligence, or resolve. It was a significant problem because, despite God having "given" them the land, the Israelites were failing to actively "go to possess" it. Their inaction meant leaving significant portions of the Promised Land unconquered and inhabited by hostile, idolatrous peoples. This not only delayed the full realization of God's covenant promises but also left potential sources of spiritual compromise and future conflict within their borders, as later seen in the book of [Judges](/judges/1 "The Book of Judges") (e.g., [Judges 2:2-3](/judges/2-2-3 "Judges 2:2-3 - Consequences of Incomplete Conquest")). Joshua's rhetorical question highlights that their passivity was a failure of faith and obedience, hindering God's full blessing and the establishment of His kingdom in the land.

**Was the land truly "given" if they still had to fight for it?**

Answer: Yes, absolutely. The land was truly "given" in a theological and covenantal sense, meaning God had legally and providentially granted it to Israel as their inheritance, fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob ([Genesis 12:7](/genesis/12-7 "God's Promise to Abraham")). The phrase "hath given you" signifies God's sovereign act of bestowment and His divine decree. However, this divine gift did not preclude the necessity of human effort, faith, and obedience in its appropriation. The "fighting" was the means by which they were to "possess" what was already theirs by divine decree. It was a test of their faith, obedience, and reliance on God's power. God had promised victory, but they had to engage in the battle. This dynamic illustrates a recurring biblical principle: God's promises are sure and His sovereignty is absolute, but their realization often requires active, obedient participation from humanity, demonstrating our trust and partnership with Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 18:3, with its poignant challenge to "possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers hath given you," finds profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the New Covenant. Just as Israel was given a physical inheritance, believers in Christ have been given an immeasurably richer spiritual inheritance in Him ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")). Through Christ's finished work on the cross, we have been granted forgiveness of sins, eternal life, adoption as children of God, and every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. However, like the Israelites, we are called not to be "slack" but to actively "possess" or appropriate these realities by faith. This involves living out our new identity in Christ ([Colossians 3:1-3](/colossians/3-1-3 "Colossians 3:1-3 - Set Your Minds on Things Above")), walking in the Spirit's power ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walk by the Spirit")), and diligently pursuing the good works God has prepared for us ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Created for Good Works")). The "land" for us is not a geographical territory but the boundless riches of Christ's grace and the full experience of His kingdom in our lives, which we are called to actively "take hold of" through faith and obedience, pressing on toward the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus ([Philippians 3:14](/philippians/3-14 "Philippians 3:14 - Pressing Toward the Goal")).

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

Proverbs 13:4

¶ The soul of the sluggard desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made fat.

Judges 18:9

And they said, Arise, that we may go up against them: for we have seen the land, and, behold, it [is] very good: and [are] ye still? be not slothful to go, [and] to enter to possess the land.

Matthew 20:6

And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?

Proverbs 15:19

¶ The way of the slothful [man is] as an hedge of thorns: but the way of the righteous [is] made plain.

Proverbs 10:4

¶ He becometh poor that dealeth [with] a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.

Zephaniah 3:16

In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem, Fear thou not: [and to] Zion, Let not thine hands be slack.

Proverbs 2:2

So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, [and] apply thine heart to understanding;