Joshua 13:6 Meaning and Explanation
“All the inhabitants of the hill country from Lebanon unto Misrephothmaim, and all the Sidonians, them will I drive out from before the children of Israel: only divide thou it by lot unto the Israelites for an inheritance, as I have commanded thee.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →God promises to drive out the hill-country peoples and Sidonians Himself, while Joshua is to divide the land by lot as an inheritance.
What Does Joshua 13:6 Mean?
After the long list of what remains, God speaks the decisive word: He Himself will drive out these peoples before Israel. Joshua's charge is simply to divide the land by lot as an inheritance, exactly as commanded. The hard part belongs to God; the obedience belongs to His servant.
Here the burden lifts. The remaining conquest does not finally rest on Joshua's aging strength but on God's sworn action: I will drive them out. The servant is asked to apportion in faith land not yet held, trusting the Giver to make good His word. This is the rhythm of grace and obedience together. God supplies what only He can do; His people do faithfully the part entrusted to them, dividing the inheritance as already theirs because He has promised it.
Joshua 13:6 in the Original Language
nachalah (נַחֲלָה), 'inheritance' -- a portion received as a gift and held in trust, not earned.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 13:6
What does Joshua 13:6 mean?
God promises to drive out the hill-country peoples and Sidonians Himself, while Joshua is to divide the land by lot as an inheritance.