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Exodus · Old Testament

Joshua

Leader Who Brought Israel into the Promised Land

Name meaning
The LORD is salvation
Name origin
Hebrew: יְהוֹשֻׁעַ (Yehoshua), meaning "the LORD is salvation"

Quick facts

Occupation
  • Military leader
  • Servant of Moses
  • Leader of Israel
Birthplace
Egypt
Modern-day location
Egypt; the specific birthplace is not recorded.
Family
  • Son of Nun
  • Successor of Moses
  • Of the tribe of Ephraim
First mention
Exodus 17:9-14
Last mention
Joshua 24:29-31
Key artifacts
  • Sword
  • Scroll of the Law
  • Stones of memorial at Gilgal

Key verses

  • “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

    Joshua 1:9

  • “So the people shouted when the priests blew with the trumpets: and the wall fell down flat.”

    Joshua 6:20

  • “choose you this day whom ye will serve; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

    Joshua 24:15

Biography

Early Life

Joshua son of Nun served Moses from youth, fought Amalek, and was one of twelve spies sent into Canaan. With Caleb, he urged trust in God while others feared.

Defining Biblical Moments

After Moses' death, Joshua led Israel across the Jordan, saw the fall of Jericho, and oversaw the allocation of the land. His farewell address called the people to choose faithful service to the LORD.

Strengths

Joshua is portrayed as courageous, obedient to instruction, and steadfast in giving God credit for victory.

Weaknesses & Lessons

The Gibeonite deception shows the danger of making decisions without seeking counsel, a lapse that bound Israel to an unintended treaty.

Life Lessons for Today

Courage is sustained by remembering God's past faithfulness; leaders must combine bold action with careful discernment and prayer.

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Joshua appears in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament, alongside more profiles like this one.

Page #11 in Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament

Heroes, Kings & Prophets of the Old Testament front cover

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