Joshua 9:2

KJV

That they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord.

KJV (with Strong's)

That they gathered {H6908} themselves together {H3162}, to fight {H3898} with Joshua {H3091} and with Israel {H3478}, with one {H259} accord {H6310}.

Complete Jewish Bible

they joined forces to fight together against Y'hoshua and Isra'el.

Berean Standard Bible

they came together to wage war against Joshua and Israel.

American Standard Version

that they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 9:2 describes the unified and resolute response of the Canaanite kings and peoples upon hearing of Israel's formidable victories at Jericho and Ai. This verse marks a pivotal moment, illustrating the widespread fear and the desperate, collective decision of these diverse nations to set aside their internal conflicts and form a grand alliance to militarily confront Joshua and the Israelites "with one accord." It establishes the primary human opposition that Israel would face in its divinely mandated task of possessing the land, contrasting sharply with the Gibeonites' later strategy of deception.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the list of Canaanite peoples and kings who heard of Israel's conquests, as detailed in [Joshua 9:1](/joshua/9-1 "Joshua 9:1 - Kings of the Land Hear of Israel's Victories"). Specifically, the narrative refers to the miraculous fall of [Jericho](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho") and the strategic victory at [Ai](/joshua/8 "Joshua 8 - The Conquest of Ai"). The narrative flow establishes the widespread terror and awe that Israel's God-backed power inspired throughout the land. While the previous chapters detailed Israel's offensive actions, [Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite") shifts the focus to the unified defensive reaction of the indigenous inhabitants. This collective decision to fight stands in stark contrast to the Gibeonites' subsequent cunning strategy of deception, which is introduced in the very next verses, highlighting the various forms of opposition Israel encountered in its conquest.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The land of Canaan in the Late Bronze Age was not a unified empire but a collection of independent city-states, each ruled by its own king. These city-states often engaged in rivalries and conflicts amongst themselves, making large-scale, unified military alliances rare and difficult to sustain. The formation of such a grand alliance, as described in [Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite"), was an extraordinary event, driven by an existential threat. The news of Israel's devastating victories, particularly the supernatural elements involved (like the collapse of Jericho's walls), would have spread quickly via trade routes and messengers, instilling profound fear. The cultural context suggests that such a unified military response, overcoming traditional rivalries, underscored the sheer desperation and perceived overwhelming power of the invading Israelites.
* **Key Themes:** [Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite") powerfully illustrates several key themes within the book of Joshua. Firstly, it highlights the **unified opposition to God's plan** for Israel to inherit the land. Despite their internal divisions, the Canaanite kings' "one accord" demonstrates a concerted, human-orchestrated resistance against divine will. Secondly, it underscores the **desperation and fear** that Israel's God-empowered advance instilled in the inhabitants. This fear, born from the destruction of [Jericho](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho") and [Ai](/joshua/8 "Joshua 8 - The Conquest of Ai"), compelled disparate nations to unite for survival. Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of **human resistance vs. divine sovereignty**. Even the most formidable human alliance, as formidable as it appeared, would ultimately prove incapable of thwarting God's unwavering purpose to give the land to His chosen people, a theme echoed throughout the conquest narratives (e.g., [Joshua 11:20](/joshua/11-20 "Joshua 11:20 - God Hardens Hearts")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **gathered (Hebrew, _qâbats'_):** From H6908, meaning "to grasp, i.e. collect; assemble (selves), gather (bring) (together, selves together, up), heap, resort, [idiom] surely, take up." This verb indicates a deliberate, organized assembly of various kings and peoples. It implies a strategic convocation, not a spontaneous or chaotic gathering, highlighting the intentionality behind their unified front. The act of "gathering" signifies the initial step in forming their formidable alliance.
* **fight (Hebrew, _lâcham'_):** From H3898, meaning "to feed on; figuratively, to consume; by implication, to battle (as destruction); devour, eat, [idiom] ever, fight(-ing), overcome, prevail, (make) war(-ring)." This word clearly defines the aggressive, destructive intent of the Canaanite alliance. It emphasizes that their gathering was not for negotiation or retreat, but for direct military confrontation, aiming to consume or destroy the Israelite threat. This highlights the existential nature of the conflict from their perspective.
* **accord (Hebrew, _peh'_):** From H6310, meaning "the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with preposition) according to; accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word." In the phrase "with one accord" (Hebrew, _k'peh echad'_), the word _peh_ literally means "mouth." The idiom "as one mouth" or "with one mouth" (combining _peh_ with _ʼechâd_, H259 "one") signifies complete unanimity, a singular purpose, and a shared voice in their decision-making. It implies a deep, collective resolve and a unified strategy, transcending the typical rivalries of Canaanite city-states. This phrase emphasizes the extraordinary nature of their unity in the face of an existential threat, making their opposition particularly formidable.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That they gathered themselves together,"**: This clause describes the physical assembly of the various kings and peoples mentioned in [Joshua 9:1](/joshua/9-1 "Joshua 9:1 - Kings of the Land Hear of Israel's Victories"). The verb "gathered" implies a deliberate, organized convocation, likely involving diplomatic efforts and agreements among previously independent or even antagonistic entities, driven by the common threat of Israel. This was a strategic mobilization, not a chaotic flight.
* **"to fight with Joshua and with Israel,"**: This phrase clearly states the explicit, aggressive purpose of their gathering: military confrontation. It identifies the target of their unified aggression as both Joshua, as the leader and military commander, and the entire nation of Israel, signifying a total war against the invading force. This highlights the direct challenge posed to God's plan for His people to possess the land, framing the conflict as a direct clash of wills.
* **"with one accord."**: As discussed in the key word analysis, this powerful idiom underscores the absolute unanimity and singular purpose of this alliance. It emphasizes that the decision to fight was not a fragmented or reluctant one but a unified, determined resolve among all parties. This collective will makes their opposition particularly significant and sets the stage for the unfolding events, including the unique response of the Gibeonites, who chose a different path.

#### Literary Devices
[Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite") employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. **Foreshadowing** is prominent, as this verse sets the stage for the major military campaigns that will follow in the book of Joshua, particularly the southern and northern campaigns where these alliances are confronted and defeated. The phrase "with one accord" serves as a powerful instance of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the extraordinary and almost unbelievable unity achieved by disparate peoples, which would typically be difficult to maintain. It also creates a strong **Contrast** with the Gibeonites, who, instead of joining this unified opposition, choose a path of deception and alliance, highlighting the varied responses to Israel's advance. Furthermore, there is an element of **Irony** in their "one accord," as this human unity, intended to thwart God's plan, ultimately serves to magnify God's power when He inevitably overcomes their combined strength, demonstrating His sovereignty.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite") serves as a profound theological statement about the nature of opposition to God's purposes. The "one accord" of the Canaanite kings, though born of fear and self-preservation, represents a unified human resistance against the divine will for Israel to inherit the land. This collective defiance underscores the spiritual battle at play, where human efforts, no matter how organized or formidable, are ultimately futile against the sovereign plan of God. It highlights the recurring biblical theme that while humanity may conspire against the Lord and His anointed, His counsel will stand, and He will accomplish all His purpose. This verse sets the stage for God to demonstrate His faithfulness and power in overcoming even the most concerted human opposition, affirming His ultimate control over history and human affairs.

* [Psalm 2:1-4](/psalms/2-1 "Psalm 2:1-4 - The Nations Rage Against God")
* [Isaiah 14:24](/isaiah/14-24 "Isaiah 14:24 - The Lord of Hosts Has Sworn His Purpose")
* [Acts 4:27-28](/acts/4-27-28 "Acts 4:27-28 - Herod and Pilate Conspire Against Jesus")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The unified opposition faced by Joshua and Israel in [Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite") offers a timeless spiritual lesson for believers today. Just as the Canaanite kings banded together against God's people and His plan, we can expect to encounter organized and seemingly overwhelming resistance when we seek to live out God's purposes in a fallen world. This opposition may come from spiritual forces, societal pressures, or even human systems that are fundamentally at odds with divine truth. This verse reminds us that such unity against God's will, while appearing formidable, is ultimately destined to fail. It calls us to courageous faith, knowing that the God who fought for Israel against a united front is the same God who empowers us. Our strength is not in our numbers or strategies, but in His sovereign power and unwavering faithfulness to His promises. We are encouraged to stand firm, trusting that God's purposes will prevail, even when the forces arrayed against us seem to act "with one accord."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Where in your life or ministry do you perceive a "unified opposition" to God's will or your faithful obedience?**
* **How does the knowledge of God's sovereignty, as demonstrated in Joshua, strengthen your resolve in the face of such opposition?**
* **What practical steps can you take to trust God more fully when facing seemingly overwhelming challenges, remembering His ultimate victory?**

### FAQ
**Why did the Canaanite kings unite, given their usual rivalries?**

Answer: The Canaanite kings, typically independent and often in conflict with one another, united "with one accord" due to the overwhelming and existential threat posed by Israel's recent, divinely-empowered victories at [Jericho](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho") and [Ai](/joshua/8 "Joshua 8 - The Conquest of Ai"). News of Israel's destructive power and the miraculous elements of their conquests (like the collapse of Jericho's walls) spread rapidly, instilling profound fear throughout the region. This common, dire threat compelled them to set aside their traditional rivalries and form an unprecedented alliance out of desperation for survival. Their unity was a testament to the immense terror inspired by Israel's God and His formidable, conquering people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[Joshua 9:2](/joshua/9-2 "Joshua 9:2 - Canaanite Kings Unite"), with its depiction of a unified human opposition against God's people and His plan, finds its ultimate fulfillment and resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as the Canaanite kings conspired "with one accord" against Joshua and Israel, so too did the powers of this world—both human and spiritual—unite against the Son of God. [Psalm 2:1-2](/psalms/2-1 "Psalm 2:1-2 - Why do the nations rage?") prophetically speaks of kings and rulers taking counsel together against the Lord and His Anointed, a prophecy explicitly applied to the crucifixion of Jesus in [Acts 4:27-28](/acts/4-27-28 "Acts 4:27-28 - Herod and Pilate Conspire Against Jesus"). Herod, Pilate, the Gentiles, and the people of Israel all conspired against Jesus, demonstrating a "one accord" of opposition to God's ultimate plan of redemption. Yet, just as God's sovereignty prevailed over the Canaanite alliance, so too did His divine purpose triumph through Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. The cross, intended by human and demonic forces to be Jesus' defeat, became the very means by which He disarmed the principalities and powers, triumphing over them (cf. [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). Thus, the unified opposition in Joshua foreshadows the greater, yet ultimately futile, opposition to the Messiah, whose victory secures the true and eternal inheritance for all who believe (cf. [Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Christ, Mediator of the New Covenant")).

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

Psalms 2:1

¶ Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?

Psalms 2:2

The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, [saying],

Acts 4:26

The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ.

Acts 4:28

For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.

Psalms 83:2

For, lo, thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate thee have lifted up the head.

Psalms 83:8

Assur also is joined with them: they have holpen the children of Lot. Selah.

Revelation 16:14

For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, [which] go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty.