Joshua 1:10-18 - Provisioned And United For Conquest
It was enough that God had spoken and promised. Nothing more was necessary. Joshua took immediate steps, dictated by sanctified common-sense, to prepare the people for the great step in advance to which God was calling them. We are not to throw away prudent foresight when we go forth on God's errands. Faith does not supersede precaution and preparation, where these are possible; although she does not rely on them, but on the living God.
When Joshua addressed the two tribes and a half, there was no faltering in his tone. He was absolutely certain that God would fulfill His promise, Joshua 1:15. This inspired the people with similar courage. It was very helpful to have the reassurance of those who were least likely to be enthusiastic, since the campaign must sever them from their families. God often speaks to us through the lips of others. Can we utter Joshua 1:16 to our Lord? [source]
Chapter Summary: Joshua 1
1The Lord appoints Joshua to succeed Moses 3The borders of the promised land 5God promises to assist Joshua 8He gives him instructions 10Joshua prepares the people to pass over Jordan 12He puts the two tribes and a half in mind of their promise to Moses 16They promise him allegiance
What do the individual words in Joshua 1:10 mean?
And commandedJoshua-the officersof the peoplesaying
Parse: Conjunctive waw, Verb, Piel, Consecutive imperfect, third person masculine singular
Root: צָוָה
Sense: to command, charge, give orders, lay charge, give charge to, order.
Parse: Proper Noun, masculine singular
Root: יְהֹושֻׁעַ
Sense: son of Nun of the tribe of Ephraim and successor to Moses as the leader of the children of Israel; led the conquest of Canaan.
Parse: Direct object marker
Root: אֹות
Sense: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative.