Joshua 1:1

¶ Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying,

Now after {H310} the death {H4194} of Moses {H4872} the servant {H5650} of the LORD {H3068} it came to pass, that the LORD {H3068} spake {H559} unto Joshua {H3091} the son {H1121} of Nun {H5126}, Moses {H4872}' minister {H8334}, saying {H559},

After the death of Moshe the servant of ADONAI, ADONAI said to Y'hoshua the son of Nun, Moshe's assistant,

Now after the death of His servant Moses, the LORD spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, saying,

Now it came to pass after the death of Moses the servant of Jehovah, that Jehovah spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying,

Commentary

Joshua 1:1 marks a pivotal transition in the history of Israel. Following the era of Moses, the great lawgiver and leader, God initiates the next phase of His plan by speaking directly to Joshua, Moses' designated successor. This verse sets the stage for the Israelites' conquest and settlement of the Promised Land under new leadership, emphasizing God's continued guidance and presence despite the change at the helm.

Context

This verse immediately follows the book of Deuteronomy, which concludes with an account of the death of Moses on Mount Nebo, having seen the Promised Land from afar but not entering it. Joshua, who had served as Moses' assistant and was already known to be filled with the spirit of leadership, is now formally addressed by the LORD. The setting is likely the plains of Moab, just east of the Jordan River, where the Israelites were encamped before beginning their campaign.

Key Themes

  • Leadership Transition: The most obvious theme is the passing of the torch from Moses to Joshua, highlighting God's sovereign control over leadership changes.
  • God's Initiative: The phrase "the LORD spake" underscores that this new era and leadership were divinely ordained, not a human political maneuver.
  • Continuity of God's Plan: Despite Moses' death, God's covenant promises and plans for Israel to inherit the land remain unchanged and are actively pursued under Joshua.
  • Joshua's Identity: He is identified by his relationship to Moses ("Moses' minister" or attendant) and his lineage ("the son of Nun"), establishing his background and preparation for the task ahead.

Linguistic Insights

The term "servant of the LORD" (Hebrew: 'eved Yahweh) is a title of high honor, frequently used for Moses. Its use here immediately after his death reinforces his unique status. Joshua is introduced as Moses' "minister" or "attendant" (Hebrew: mesharet), a term that describes his previous role of service and preparation under Moses' leadership.

Reflection

Joshua 1:1 reminds us that God's work continues through different individuals and across generations. Even when beloved or significant leaders depart, God remains the ultimate authority and initiator of His purposes. It highlights the importance of faithful service ("Moses' minister") as preparation for future leadership roles and shows that God speaks directly to those He calls for specific tasks. This verse serves as a foundational statement for the book of Joshua, signaling that the narrative is driven by divine command and promise, picking up directly from where God left off with Moses.

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Cross-References

  • Deuteronomy 34:9 (11 votes)

    ¶ And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the LORD commanded Moses.

  • Deuteronomy 31:23 (6 votes)

    And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said, Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.

  • Deuteronomy 1:38 (5 votes)

    [But] Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.

  • Deuteronomy 31:3 (5 votes)

    The LORD thy God, he will go over before thee, [and] he will destroy these nations from before thee, and thou shalt possess them: [and] Joshua, he shall go over before thee, as the LORD hath said.

  • Exodus 24:13 (5 votes)

    And Moses rose up, and his minister Joshua: and Moses went up into the mount of God.

  • Deuteronomy 34:5 (4 votes)

    ¶ So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD.

  • Acts 7:45 (4 votes)

    Which also our fathers that came after brought in with Jesus into the possession of the Gentiles, whom God drave out before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;