Joshua

Biography

Joshua son of Nun was Moses' servant and successor, chosen by God to lead Israel across the Jordan and conquer the Promised Land. His original name Hoshea ("salvation") was changed by Moses to Joshua ("Yahweh saves"), foreshadowing his role as deliverer. Joshua first appears as the military commander who defeated the Amalekites while Moses' raised hands ensured victory. He was one of twelve spies sent into Canaan, and with Caleb gave the only faithful report, urging Israel to trust God. For this faithfulness, only Joshua and Caleb of their generation would enter the land. After Moses' death, God commissioned Joshua with the words "Be strong and courageous" repeated four times. He led Israel across the miraculously parted Jordan, conquered Jericho when its walls fell at the shout, and systematically subdued the land through brilliant military campaigns—though the victory was always God's. Joshua's leadership combined military prowess with spiritual devotion. He renewed the covenant at Mount Ebal and Gerizim, read all of Moses' law to the people, and divided the land among the tribes. His farewell address challenged Israel with the famous declaration: "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."