Conquered Kings and Promised Inheritance: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Joshua 12

Executive Summary

Joshua 12, meticulously detailing the Israelite victories over the kings east and west of the Jordan, isn’t just a historical record. It’s a profound testament to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham and his descendants. This chapter underscores the hard-fought battles and divine intervention necessary to secure the Promised Land. The list of vanquished kings serves as a powerful reminder of the obstacles overcome through faith and obedience. This victory foreshadows the ultimate triumph over sin and death through Jesus Christ. By examining the geographical and historical context of these battles, we gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made and the spiritual lessons embedded within this pivotal chapter. Ultimately, it highlights the importance of persevering in our own spiritual battles, trusting in God’s power to overcome any adversity. The promised rest, both then and now, is found only in Him. This journey to the “promised land” is available to you on website builder.

Introduction to Joshua 12 – **Conquered Kings and Promised Inheritance**: This chapter catalogs the kings defeated by the Israelites under Moses and Joshua, solidifying their claim to the land promised by God. More than just a war record, it’s a demonstration of divine power and a prelude to the land distribution. We will unpack the deeper spiritual significance, historical context, and practical application for the Coptic Orthodox believer.

Commentary: Joshua 12 Verse by Verse

Joshua 12:1

“Now these are the kings of the land which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east.” (KJV)

“Now these are the kings of the land whom the children of Israel defeated and whose land they possessed on the side of the Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon to Mount Hermon, with all the eastern Arabah.” (NKJV)

This verse sets the stage, defining the geographical scope of the initial Israelite conquests east of the Jordan River. The river Arnon marks the southern boundary, while Mount Hermon represents the northern limit. “Possessing their land” is not merely a military victory, but a step towards fulfilling the covenant promise. This fulfillment echoes in the New Testament, where we are called to possess our inheritance in Christ, fighting against spiritual enemies. Think of St. Paul’s words: “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). Let us use domain name search to build our online presence.

Joshua 12:2

“Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt in Heshbon, and ruled from Aroer, which is upon the bank of the river of Arnon, and from the middle of the river, and half Gilead, even unto the river Jabbok, which is the border of the children of Ammon;” (KJV)

“Sihon king of the Amorites, who dwelt in Heshbon, and ruled from Aroer, which is on the bank of the River Arnon, and from the middle of the river, and half of Gilead, even as far as the River Jabbok, which is the border of the Ammonites;” (NKJV)

Sihon, King of the Amorites, is the first king specifically mentioned. His territory, centered around Heshbon, stretched from the Arnon to the Jabbok. The mention of “half Gilead” highlights the scale of this conquest. Consider St. Athanasius’ words regarding earthly kingdoms: “Οὐδὲ γὰρ καὶ οἱ βασιλεῖς τοῦ κόσμου τούτου ἰσχύουσιν ἐκστρέψαι τὰς ἀποφάσεις τοῦ Θεοῦ.” (Oude gar kai hoi basileis tou kosmou toutou ischuousin ekstrepai tas apophaseis tou Theou.) “For even the kings of this world are not able to overturn the decrees of God.” (Athanasius, *Contra Arianos*, 3.64). Sihon represents those who oppose God’s will. We must guard against the “Sihons” in our own lives – those internal obstacles and temptations that seek to prevent us from claiming our spiritual inheritance. Ask: What “Amorite king” is preventing *me* from possessing my promised land of peace in Christ?

Joshua 12:3

“And all the plain toward the sea of Chinneroth on the east, and unto the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, under Ashdothpisgah eastward.” (KJV)

“and the eastern Arabah as far as the Sea of Chinnereth on the east and as far as the Sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, eastward below the slopes of Pisgah.” (NKJV)

This verse details the geographical boundaries of Sihon’s former kingdom, including the Sea of Chinneroth (Sea of Galilee) and the Salt Sea (Dead Sea). The “plain” and “Arabah” denote the Jordan Valley, a fertile and strategically important area. Ashdoth-pisgah likely refers to the slopes of Mount Pisgah, where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death (Deuteronomy 34:1-4). Just as Moses was granted a *vision* of the Promised Land, we are called to cultivate a *spiritual vision* of our inheritance in Christ, glimpsing the glory to come even amidst present struggles. Consider the words of St. Macarius: “καθὼς τὰ σωματικὰ ὄμματα βλέπουσι τὰ αἰσθητὰ, οὕτως καὶ ὁ νοῦς βλέπει τὰ πνευματικά.” (kathōs ta sōmatika ommata blepousi ta aisthēta, houtōs kai ho nous blepei ta pneumatika.) “As the physical eyes see physical things, so the mind sees spiritual things.” (Macarius the Great, *Homilies*, 1.2). Therefore, we must purify our hearts and minds, so we can better perceive and appreciate the beauty of the Kingdom God promises each of us.

Joshua 12:4-5

“And the coast of Og king of Bashan, which was of the remnant of the giants, that dwelt at Ashtaroth and at Edrei, And reigned in mount Hermon, and in Salcah, and in all Bashan, unto the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and half Gilead, the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.” (KJV)

“also the territory of Og king of Bashan, one of the remnant of the giants who dwelt at Ashtaroth and Edrei, and reigned over Mount Hermon, over Salcah, over all Bashan, as far as the border of the Geshurites and the Maachathites, and half of Gilead to the border of Sihon king of Heshbon.” (NKJV)

Og, king of Bashan, another formidable opponent, is described as “of the remnant of the giants.” This description evokes images of immense power and stature. His kingdom encompassed Mount Hermon, Salcah, and all of Bashan. The mention of “giants” is significant. It is a reminder that the Israelites faced seemingly insurmountable odds. But their victory was not due to their own strength, but to God’s power working through them. “Og represents the demonic forces that we face today,” said Pope Shenouda III in one of his sermons. Just as David faced Goliath, we face giants of doubt, fear, and temptation. But we can overcome these giants through faith in Christ. The Coptic Church emphasizes spiritual warfare. We are called to put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) and to engage in constant prayer and fasting to resist the devil.

Joshua 12:6

“Them did Moses the servant of the LORD and the children of Israel smite: and Moses the servant of the LORD gave it for a possession unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh.” (KJV)

“These Moses the servant of the Lord and the children of Israel had conquered; and Moses the servant of the Lord had given it as a possession to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh.” (NKJV)

This verse emphasizes that these victories were achieved under the leadership of Moses, the “servant of the LORD.” The conquered land was then given as a possession to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. Moses’ role is critical. He foreshadows Christ, the ultimate servant of the Lord, who leads us to our eternal inheritance. The distribution of the land represents the distribution of spiritual gifts and responsibilities within the Church. Each member of the Body of Christ is given a unique role to play in building up the Kingdom of God. This act of distribution also highlights the importance of stewardship. The tribes who received the land were responsible for caring for it and using it to glorify God.

Joshua 12:7

“And these are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel smote on this side Jordan on the west, from Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon even unto the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir; which Joshua gave unto the tribes of Israel for a possession according to their divisions;” (KJV)

“And these are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel conquered on this side of the Jordan, on the west, from Baal Gad in the Valley of Lebanon as far as Mount Halak that ascends to Seir, which Joshua gave to the tribes of Israel as a possession according to their divisions,” (NKJV)

This verse shifts focus to the conquests west of the Jordan, led by Joshua. The boundaries are defined as “from Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon even unto the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir.” This marked the beginning of claiming the *rest* of the Promised Land. Joshua’s name itself means “God is Salvation,” and he is a type of Christ. He leads the people into their promised inheritance, just as Christ leads us into eternal life. This verse also highlights the importance of order and division. The land was given to the tribes “according to their divisions,” reflecting God’s desire for structure and organization within His people. The Church itself, as the Body of Christ, operates best when each member understands and fulfills their unique role.

Joshua 12:8-24

(These verses list the specific kings defeated by Joshua west of the Jordan. A verse-by-verse commentary would be repetitive. Instead, we will address them thematically.)

The remainder of the chapter lists thirty-one kings defeated by Joshua. While seemingly a dry list, it is a *catalog of victories*. Each king represents a different obstacle, a different form of resistance to God’s will. Together they symbolize the totality of the opposition faced by the Israelites.

Consider the following reflections:

• The sheer number (31 kings!) illustrates the intensity and scope of the spiritual battle. We must be prepared for ongoing challenges in our faith.
• Each city and king had its own unique strengths and strategies. Spiritual warfare is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We must be discerning and adaptable in our response.
• The consistent phrase “king of…” indicates established power structures that had to be dismantled. Overcoming ingrained habits and worldly attachments requires sustained effort and reliance on God’s grace.
• The ultimate defeat of these kings demonstrates God’s unwavering faithfulness. No obstacle is too great for Him to overcome. We can have confidence in His power to see us through any trial.
• Remembering these victories helps us to appreciate the price that was paid for our salvation. The Israelites fought for their physical inheritance; Christ fought for our eternal inheritance.
• The eventual peace that came to Israel after these conquests foreshadows the eternal peace that awaits us in Heaven. We must persevere in faith, knowing that our labor is not in vain.

FAQ ❓

• Q: Why is this list of kings so important? It seems so tedious!
  A: While it may seem like a mere list, it’s a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness and the Israelites’ obedience. It’s a historical record, yes, but more importantly, it’s a reminder that God keeps His promises, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The number of kings defeated underlines the magnitude of the victory achieved through God’s power.
• Q: How does this chapter relate to Coptic Orthodox spirituality?
  A: Coptic Orthodox spirituality emphasizes spiritual warfare and the pursuit of holiness. This chapter reminds us that the Christian life is not passive; it requires active engagement in resisting temptation and overcoming sin. The victories of Joshua and the Israelites foreshadow the ultimate victory over sin and death through Christ. The spiritual fight is constant, requiring persistent prayer and faith.
• Q: Can we draw any practical lessons from this chapter for our lives today?
  A: Absolutely! This chapter teaches us about perseverance, faith, and obedience. Just as the Israelites had to overcome numerous obstacles to claim their inheritance, we too face challenges in our spiritual journey. We must trust in God’s power, remain steadfast in our faith, and obey His commandments. The “giants” we face may look different, but the principle remains the same.
• Q: What do the conquered kings represent in a symbolic sense?
  A: The conquered kings represent the various forms of sin, temptation, and worldly attachments that we must overcome in our own lives. They can be seen as the internal obstacles that prevent us from fully embracing God’s will and experiencing the fullness of His blessings. Each king represents a different kind of obstacle, requiring different strategies to overcome. Overcoming our fears is important, find help on web hosting.

Conclusion

Joshua 12, the **Conquered Kings and Promised Inheritance**, offers more than just a historical account. It provides a roadmap for our own spiritual battles. Each defeated king stands as a symbol of the challenges we face on our journey towards inheriting the promises of God. From Sihon to Og, and the thirty-one kings west of the Jordan, they represent the obstacles that hinder us from fully embracing our spiritual inheritance in Christ. We are reminded of the necessity for perseverance, faith, and unwavering obedience to God’s will. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we understand the importance of spiritual warfare. Like the Israelites of old, we must actively resist temptation, overcome sin, and trust in God’s power to lead us to victory. Ultimately, Joshua 12 points us towards the eternal rest that awaits us in Christ, where we will finally inherit the fullness of God’s blessings. May we draw strength and inspiration from this chapter to persevere in our faith and claim the inheritance that has been prepared for us.

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Joshua, Joshua 12, Coptic Orthodox, Bible Commentary, Promised Land, Conquered Kings, Spiritual Warfare, Old Testament, Theology, Patristics

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Explore Joshua 12 through a Coptic Orthodox lens: unlocking spiritual insights on the conquered kings and the promised inheritance. Discover profound lessons for modern life.