People of Joshua

The People of Joshua appear throughout the narrative of the Israelite conquest and settlement of the land of Canaan. The book begins with the transition of leadership following the death of Moses, who is identified as the servant of the Lord (Joshua 1:1). The primary figure is Joshua, who is commanded by God to lead the people across the Jordan River to take possession of the territory promised to their ancestors (Joshua 1:2–6). Early in the campaign, The Two Spies at Jericho are sent to survey the land, where they are hidden by Rahab, a woman who protects them in exchange for the safety of her family (Joshua 2:1–14).

The organization of the people is defined by their tribal identities as the descendants of Israel. Before the crossing, the tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with half the tribe of Manasseh agree to assist their brothers in battle despite having already received land east of the Jordan (Joshua 1:12–15). During the siege of Jericho, the text identifies Achan as the man who violates the ban on taking spoils, an act that leads to a temporary military defeat (Joshua 7:1). Following the conquest of the southern and northern regions, Eleazar works alongside Joshua to distribute the land by lot among the remaining tribes, including Judah, and Ephraim (Joshua 14:1, 15:1, 16:5).

Specific individuals receive distinct inheritances based on their past service or lineage. Caleb son of Jephunneh requests and receives the region of Hebron because he had remained faithful when spying out the land years earlier (Joshua 14:6–14). The text also accounts for the priestly class, noting that the descendants of Levi do not receive a territorial block but are instead granted specific cities, such as those given to the sons of Kohath (Joshua 21:1–4). The narrative also mentions regional adversaries, such as Adoni-zedek, the king of Jerusalem who organizes a coalition to oppose the Israelite advance (Joshua 10:1–5).

The book concludes by emphasizing the fulfillment of the promises made to the patriarchs. The bones of Joseph, which had been brought up from Egypt, are buried at Shechem in land purchased by his ancestors (Joshua 24:32). The final passages record the deaths of the generation that led the conquest, specifically Joshua, and the high priest Eleazar (Joshua 24:29–33). Their passing marks the end of the era of conquest and the establishment of the tribes within their designated borders.