Joshua 9:2

Joshua 9:2 describes the unified response of the Canaanite kings and peoples after hearing about Israel's devastating victories at Jericho and Ai. This verse sets the stage for the strategic deception of the Gibeonites later in the chapter, contrasting their cunning with the direct, open hostility of the other nations.

Context

Following the miraculous fall of Jericho and the subsequent strategic capture of Ai, news of Israel's overwhelming power and the presence of their God spread rapidly throughout the land of Canaan. The inhabitants, particularly the various kings and peoples mentioned in Joshua 9:1 (the Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, Jebusites, and Girgashites), were filled with fear. This verse details their collective decision: rather than facing Israel individually, they chose to form a grand alliance to confront Joshua and the Israelites as one formidable force.

Key Themes

• Unified Opposition to God's Plan: The phrase "gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord" highlights the concentrated effort of the Canaanite nations to resist God's clear command for Israel to possess the land. This unity, born out of fear, directly opposes divine will.
• Desperation and Fear: The formation of such an extensive alliance underscores the immense terror inspired by Israel's previous victories. These nations, often at odds with each other, set aside their differences out of a desperate attempt to preserve their existence and way of life against what they perceived as an unstoppable, divinely-backed invasion.
• Human Resistance vs. Divine Sovereignty: This verse foreshadows a continuing theme in Joshua: despite the most formidable human resistance, God's sovereign plan for His people will ultimately prevail. The united front of the Canaanites was a significant challenge, yet it would ultimately serve to magnify God's power and faithfulness in delivering the land to Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "with one accord" translates the Hebrew idiom k'peh echad (כְּפֶה אֶחָד), which literally means "as one mouth" or "with one mouth." This is a powerful expression indicating complete unanimity and a singular purpose. It signifies that these diverse kings and peoples were not merely gathering physically but had come to a shared, unified decision and strategy to oppose Israel. This highlights the depth of their resolve and the formidable nature of their combined strength.

Practical Application

Joshua 9:2 offers a timeless lesson: opposition to God's purposes and His people often manifests as a unified front. Just as the Canaanite kings banded together, believers may face unified spiritual or worldly resistance when pursuing God's call. This verse reminds us that such opposition, while seemingly overwhelming, ultimately cannot thwart God's sovereign plan. It encourages believers to find strength and courage in God's presence, knowing that He is with them, just as He promised Joshua (Joshua 1:9), and that His purposes will always prevail.