Joshua 7:16

Joshua 7:16 Meaning and Explanation

So Joshua rose up early in the morning, and brought Israel by their tribes; and the tribe of Judah was taken:

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

Joshua rises early and brings Israel forward tribe by tribe, and the tribe of Judah is singled out.

What Does Joshua 7:16 Mean?

Joshua obeys at once, rising early as he had so often done. Israel is brought near tribe by tribe, and the LORD's hand falls on Judah. The first circle of the search closes; the guilt lies somewhere within this great tribe.

There is a sober irony that Judah, the tribe of leadership and later of kings, is the one taken. No standing, no honor, no promise exempts a person or a people from accountability before God. The narrowing has begun, and it will not stop until it reaches one man. The lesson presses on every reader: privilege is never a shield against the searching eye of the Lord, and the place of blessing carries the call to faithfulness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 7:16

What does Joshua 7:16 mean?

Joshua rises early and brings Israel forward tribe by tribe, and the tribe of Judah is singled out.

Keep Studying Joshua 7

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.