Joshua 23:7 Meaning and Explanation
“That ye come not among these nations, these that remain among you; neither make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause to swear by them, neither serve them, nor bow yourselves unto them:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Joshua warns Israel not to mingle with the surrounding nations in their worship, not even naming, swearing by, serving, or bowing to their gods.
What Does Joshua 23:7 Mean?
Joshua spells out what loyalty to the Lord forbids. Israel is not to absorb the religious life of the nations around them, not to invoke their gods, swear oaths in their names, serve them, or bow before them. The progression moves from the lips to the knee, from speech to full devotion, naming every door through which idolatry enters.
Worship shapes the soul, and divided worship divides the heart. Joshua's concern is not mere ritual but the people's whole allegiance. To name and bow before another god is to give away what belongs to the Lord alone. The call to undivided devotion still stands: we cannot serve two masters, and the heart that clings to God must let go of every rival.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 23:7
What does Joshua 23:7 mean?
Joshua warns Israel not to mingle with the surrounding nations in their worship, not even naming, swearing by, serving, or bowing to their gods.