Joshua 22:5

KJV

But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

KJV (with Strong's)

But take diligent {H3966} heed {H8104} to do {H6213} the commandment {H4687} and the law {H8451}, which Moses {H4872} the servant {H5650} of the LORD {H3068} charged {H6680} you, to love {H157} the LORD {H3068} your God {H430}, and to walk {H3212} in all his ways {H1870}, and to keep {H8104} his commandments {H4687}, and to cleave {H1692} unto him, and to serve {H5647} him with all your heart {H3824} and with all your soul {H5315}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Only take great care to obey the mitzvah and the Torah which Moshe the servant of ADONAI gave you - to love ADONAI your God, follow all his ways, observe his mitzvot, cling to him, and serve him with all your heart and being."

Berean Standard Bible

But be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.”

American Standard Version

Only take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of Jehovah commanded you, to love Jehovah your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 22:5 encapsulates the essence of the Mosaic covenant, serving as Joshua's final, poignant exhortation to the returning Transjordanian tribes. It calls for an unwavering, wholehearted commitment to God, emphasizing diligent obedience to His commands, active love for Him, a lifestyle aligned with His ways, steadfast loyalty, and service rendered with complete devotion of heart and soul. This verse powerfully reiterates the foundational principles of Israel's relationship with Yahweh, reminding them that their future blessings and continued presence in the land depend on their faithful adherence to these divine stipulations.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Joshua 22 marks a pivotal transition in the book of Joshua. Having completed the primary military campaigns and the division of the land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh are finally dismissed by Joshua to return to their inheritance east of the Jordan River. This farewell address, culminating in verse 5, is Joshua's final, comprehensive charge to these tribes, echoing the covenantal stipulations that have governed Israel's journey from Sinai to Canaan. It immediately precedes the controversial altar incident (Joshua 22:10-34), which tests the very principles of unity and covenant faithfulness that Joshua is here emphasizing. The verse serves as a foundational reminder of their obligations before they depart, setting the stage for the challenges and temptations that might arise from their geographical separation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is post-conquest Canaan, a period of transition from military campaign to settled life. The tribes are returning to lands already allotted to them by Moses [Numbers 32](/numbers/32 "Numbers 32 - Land for Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh"), distinct from the main body of Israel west of the Jordan. This geographical separation posed a potential risk of spiritual drift and assimilation into surrounding pagan cultures, or even a fracturing of the Israelite identity. Joshua's address, therefore, is not merely a polite farewell but a critical reinforcement of their shared identity as the people of Yahweh, bound by a common covenant. The emphasis on "the commandment and the law, which Moses... charged you" directly references the foundational legal and moral framework given at Sinai and reiterated in Deuteronomy, which was the bedrock of Israelite society, governance, and worship.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 22:5 powerfully crystallizes several overarching themes central to the book of Joshua and the Pentateuch. It underscores the paramount importance of **covenant faithfulness** as the basis for Israel's continued blessing and success in the land, echoing the promises and warnings of [Deuteronomy 28](/deuteronomy/28 "Deuteronomy 28 - Blessings and Curses"). The call to "love the LORD your God" and "serve him with all your heart and with all your soul" directly reflects the core command of the [Shema in Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - The Great Commandment"), highlighting that obedience is to flow from a deep, internal devotion, not mere external compliance. The phrase "walk in all his ways" speaks to a holistic lifestyle of **righteousness and adherence to divine principles**, while "cleave unto him" emphasizes **unwavering loyalty and intimate communion** with God, a concept also found in [Deuteronomy 10:20](/deuteronomy/10-20 "Deuteronomy 10:20 - Cling to the Lord"). These themes collectively stress that the physical possession of the land was contingent upon spiritual fidelity.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Diligent (Hebrew, _me'od'_):** While not a direct word in the KJV "diligent heed," the underlying Hebrew for "take diligent heed" (שָׁמַר מְאֹד, _shamar me'od_) implies "observe very much" or "guard carefully." The adverb _me'od_ intensifies the verb _shamar_ (to keep, guard), conveying an extreme degree of care, precision, and earnestness. It signifies that obedience is not casual but requires profound attention and intentionality, a constant vigilance against deviation.
* **Cleave (Hebrew, _dabaq'_):** This verb (דָּבַק) signifies a strong, intimate attachment, to stick, cling, or hold fast to something or someone. It implies an inseparable bond, a deep loyalty that resists separation. Beyond mere physical proximity, _dabaq_ denotes a profound spiritual and emotional commitment, as seen in its use for marital union in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - Man and Woman United"). In the context of God, it speaks of unwavering devotion and fidelity, a refusal to turn away from Him.
* **Heart (Hebrew, _levav'_):** The term (לֵבָב) in biblical Hebrew refers not just to the physical organ but to the totality of the inner person: intellect, will, emotion, and conscience. To serve God with "all your heart" means to engage one's mind, intentions, desires, and moral compass fully in His service. It signifies an internal, sincere devotion that precedes and motivates external actions, contrasting with superficial or ritualistic obedience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you":** This opening clause sets the tone, emphasizing the critical importance and seriousness of the instructions. "Diligent heed" stresses careful, intentional obedience. The source of these commands is explicitly stated as "the commandment and the law" given by "Moses the servant of the LORD," grounding the exhortation in the authoritative, divinely revealed covenant given at Sinai, thereby reinforcing its binding nature for all generations of Israel.
* **"to love the LORD your God":** This is presented not merely as an emotion but as a foundational command and the ultimate motivation for all subsequent actions. Biblical love for God (_ahavah_) is an active, covenantal commitment expressed through loyalty, obedience, and devotion. It is the internal disposition that drives external adherence to His will, echoing the primary command of the Shema [Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "Deuteronomy 6:5 - The Great Commandment").
* **"and to walk in all his ways":** This phrase describes the practical manifestation of love and obedience. "Walking" is a common biblical metaphor for one's conduct, lifestyle, or course of life. To "walk in all his ways" means to live in accordance with God's character, principles, and moral standards, demonstrating righteousness and integrity in all aspects of life, mirroring His holiness.
* **"and to keep his commandments":** This is the direct, concrete expression of walking in God's ways and loving Him. "Keeping" implies not just knowing or hearing, but actively observing, guarding, and performing His statutes. It signifies practical, ongoing adherence to the specific laws and precepts revealed by God, demonstrating faithfulness through action.
* **"and to cleave unto him":** This clause emphasizes unwavering loyalty and intimate communion. As discussed, "cleave" (_dabaq_) denotes an inseparable bond, a steadfast attachment to God alone, rejecting any idolatrous alternatives or spiritual compromise. It speaks of a deep, personal relationship characterized by fidelity and devotion.
* **"and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul":** This culminating phrase demands total, unreserved commitment. "Serve" (_'avad_) implies worship, labor, and devotion. "All your heart" (intellect, will, emotion) and "all your soul" (life force, being, inner self) together signify a comprehensive, holistic dedication. It means that every faculty and every fiber of one's being should be engaged in the worship and obedience of God, leaving no part of life untouched by His sovereign claim.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 22:5 is rich in **covenantal language** and **repetition**, characteristic of Deuteronomic theology. The verse functions as a **summary statement** or **climax** of Joshua's farewell address, consolidating the core principles of Israel's covenant with Yahweh. The use of a series of infinitives ("to love," "to walk," "to keep," "to cleave," "to serve") creates a powerful **cumulative effect**, building a comprehensive picture of demanded devotion. The phrase "all your heart and with all your soul" is a potent example of **merism**, where two contrasting or complementary parts represent the whole, emphasizing the totality and undivided nature of the required commitment. The entire verse serves as a **didactic exhortation**, instructing and reminding the tribes of their fundamental spiritual obligations.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 22:5 stands as a profound theological statement, reiterating the core tenets of the Mosaic covenant: that Israel's identity, prosperity, and very existence as God's chosen people are inextricably linked to their faithful obedience and wholehearted devotion to Yahweh alone. It underscores that true worship is not merely ritualistic but encompasses every aspect of life, flowing from a deep, covenantal love that manifests in diligent adherence to God's revealed will. This verse encapsulates the Deuteronomic emphasis on a singular, exclusive relationship with God, warning against spiritual syncretism and highlighting the ongoing necessity of intentional fidelity even after the initial conquest and settlement. It establishes a timeless principle that God desires not just compliance, but a passionate, undivided allegiance from His people.

* [Deuteronomy 6:5](/deuteronomy/6-5 "The Greatest Commandment")
* [Deuteronomy 10:12](/deuteronomy/10-12 "What the Lord Requires")
* [Matthew 22:37](/matthew/22-37 "The Greatest Commandment")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua's charge to the returning tribes in Joshua 22:5 resonates deeply with believers today, serving as a timeless blueprint for a vibrant and authentic faith. It challenges us to move beyond superficial religiosity to a life characterized by intentional faithfulness and wholehearted devotion. The call to "take diligent heed" reminds us that our spiritual walk requires active engagement with God's Word, careful discernment, and disciplined obedience, rather than passive assent. Our obedience is not to be a burdensome duty but a joyful response to the command to "love the LORD your God" with every fiber of our being. This comprehensive love should motivate us to "walk in all his ways," aligning our daily choices, attitudes, and priorities with His righteous character. Furthermore, the imperative to "cleave unto him" and "serve him with all your heart and with all your soul" calls us to examine our loyalties in a world constantly vying for our attention and affection. It demands an undivided devotion, a steadfast commitment that prioritizes God above all else, recognizing that true life and fulfillment are found only in an intimate, unwavering relationship with Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you need to "take diligent heed" to God's commands?**
* **How does your daily life demonstrate your love for the LORD with "all your heart and all your soul"?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "cleave unto him" more fully in a world full of distractions?**

### FAQ
**Why is "cleave unto him" so important in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "cleave unto him" (Hebrew: _dabaq_) is profoundly significant because it goes beyond mere obedience to imply a deep, intimate, and unwavering bond of loyalty and devotion. It signifies a steadfast attachment to God alone, rejecting any compromise or turning away to other gods or allegiances. This concept is central to the covenant relationship, where God desires an exclusive and enduring commitment from His people. Just as a husband "cleaves" to his wife in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - Man and Woman United"), signifying an inseparable union, so too are believers called to an unbreakable spiritual bond with God. It underscores the relational aspect of faith, where devotion is not just about following rules, but about maintaining an intimate, faithful connection with the Divine.

**What does it mean to "serve him with all your heart and with all your soul"?**

Answer: To "serve him with all your heart and with all your soul" is a comprehensive demand for total commitment, echoing the foundational commands of the Mosaic Law. "Heart" (Hebrew: _levav_) in biblical thought represents the totality of the inner person—intellect, will, emotions, and conscience. "Soul" (Hebrew: _nephesh_) refers to one's life force, being, or inner self. Therefore, serving God with "all your heart and all your soul" means engaging every faculty of your being in His worship and obedience. It's a call for sincere, internal devotion that translates into external action, ensuring that service is not superficial or grudging but arises from the deepest parts of one's being. This holistic commitment ensures that God is honored in every thought, desire, and action, reflecting the ultimate purpose of human existence as outlined in passages like [Deuteronomy 10:12](/deuteronomy/10-12 "Deuteronomy 10:12 - What the Lord Requires").

**How does this verse relate to the concept of the "Shema"?**

Answer: Joshua 22:5 is deeply rooted in and directly reflects the spirit and content of the "Shema" found in [Deuteronomy 6:4-5](/deuteronomy/6-4 "Deuteronomy 6:4-5 - The Shema"). The Shema begins with the declaration of God's singularity ("The LORD our God, the LORD is one") and immediately commands, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." Joshua 22:5 directly echoes this foundational command to "love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." It expands on the practical implications of that love, showing that it manifests in diligent obedience, a righteous lifestyle, steadfast loyalty, and wholehearted service. Thus, Joshua's exhortation is a powerful restatement and application of the core principle of the Shema, reminding the people of Israel of the singular and total devotion required by their covenant with Yahweh.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 22:5, with its earnest call for diligent obedience, wholehearted love, and unwavering loyalty to God, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament law revealed God's perfect standard and humanity's inability to perfectly "take diligent heed" or "serve him with all your heart and with all your soul" due to sin, Christ perfectly embodied every aspect of this command. Jesus declared that the greatest commandment was to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" [Matthew 22:37](/matthew/22-37 "Matthew 22:37 - The Greatest Commandment"), a command He perfectly fulfilled in His life, death, and resurrection. He is the one who truly "walked in all his ways" [1 Peter 2:21](/1_peter/2-21 "1 Peter 2:21 - Christ Our Example"), perfectly "kept his commandments" [John 15:10](/john/15-10 "John 15:10 - Abiding in Christ's Love"), and "cleaved unto" the Father with absolute devotion, even to the point of death on the cross [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Humility"). For believers, our ability to fulfill the spirit of Joshua's charge is not through our own strength, but through our union with Christ. Through faith, we are united to Him, receiving His Spirit who empowers us to genuinely love God, walk in His ways, and serve Him with transformed hearts and renewed souls, as He works in us "both to will and to work for his good pleasure" [Philippians 2:13](/philippians/2-13 "Philippians 2:13 - God at Work in Us"). He is the true and perfect Israelite, fulfilling all righteousness on our behalf, enabling us to enter into the very covenant relationship that Joshua exhorted the tribes to maintain.

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.