Joshua 8:26 Meaning and Explanation
“For Joshua drew not his hand back, wherewith he stretched out the spear, until he had utterly destroyed all the inhabitants of Ai.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Joshua keeps his spear stretched out until the work of judgment against Ai is fully completed.
What Does Joshua 8:26 Mean?
This verse returns to the spear Joshua lifted in verse 18. He held it out, unwavering, until the entire task was finished, much as Moses' hands were held up until the battle with Amalek was won. The uplifted spear bound the whole victory to that single sign of God-given strength.
Joshua's steady hand is a picture of perseverance in obedience. He did not draw back partway through but saw the LORD's command fully accomplished. There is a lesson here in not letting our hands fall, in enduring to the end in the work God has given. Many begin well; the blessing rests on those who, by His strength, hold steady until the task is done.
Joshua 8:26 in the Original Language
haram (חָרַם), 'utterly destroyed' -- to devote something irrevocably to God, often by its destruction in judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 8:26
What does Joshua 8:26 mean?
Joshua keeps his spear stretched out until the work of judgment against Ai is fully completed.