Joshua 8

Joshua 8

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Then the LordI saidII to Joshua,III

Notes on verse 1a

I “Lord” = YHVH. From havah (to be, become) or hayah (to come to pass, become, be). This is the name of the God of Israel, the self-existent and eternal one, the tetragrammaton. This pronunciation has been lost to time so “Lord” is generally used in its place.
II “said” = amar. This is to speak, say, answer, command, promise, report.
III “Joshua” = Yehoshua. Related to “Lord” in v1. From YHVH (see note I above) + yasha (to deliver, defend, help, preserve, rescue; properly, to be open, wide or free, which implies being safe. So, in a causative sense, this is to free someone). This is Joshua, Jeshua, or Yehoshua, which means “the Lord is salvation.”

“Do not fearIV or be dismayed;V takeVI allVII

Notes on verse 1b

IV “fear” = yare. This is to fear, be afraid, dreadful. It can also refer to fearful reverence – to fear in a moral sense is to say to revere, respect.
V “be dismayed” = chathath. This is properly to prostrate. So it could be shatter, break, or break down in a literal, violent sense. It could also figuratively refer to being dismayed, discouraged, or frightened. It can also mean to stand in awe.
VI “take” = laqach. This is to take, accept, carry away, receive. It can also have the sense of take a wife or take in marriage.
VII “all” = kol. From kalal (to complete). This is all or every.

the fightingVIII menIX with you,X and go upXI to Ai.XII

Notes on verse 1c

VIII “fighting” = milchamah. From lacham (to eat or feed on; figuratively, to battle as a kind of consumption/destruction). This is battle, war, fighting, or one who fights (i.e. a warrior).
IX “men” = am. From amam (to darken, hide, associate; creating shadows by huddling together). This is people or nation. It can be used specifically for a tribe, collectively of troops or armies, or figuratively to refer to a flock of animals.
X {untranslated} = qum. To arise, stand, accomplish, establish, abide. This is rising as in rising against, getting up after being sick or asleep, arising from one state to another, becoming powerful, or rising for action. It can also be standing in a figurative sense.
XI “go up” = alah. This is to go up, approach, ascend, be high, be a priority; to arise in a literal or figurative sense.
XII “Ai” = Ay. Perhaps from iy (a ruin or a heap as a place that was overturned); from avah (to bend, twist, be amiss). This is Ai, a city in Canaan. It means “ruin.”

See,XIII I have handed overXIV to you the kingXV of Ai with his people,XVI

Notes on verse 1d

XIII “see” = raah. This is to see in a literal or figurative sense so stare, advise, think, view.
XIV “handed over” = natan + yad. Literally, “given into your hand.” Natan is to give, put, set, offer. It is to give literally or figuratively. Yad is hand, ability, power. Hand in a literal sense, but also what one can do or the means by which one does it.
XV “king” = melek. From malak (to be or become king or queen, to rise to the throne, to be crowned; by implication, to take counsel). This is king or royal.
XVI “people” = am. Same as “men” in v1. See note IX above.

his city,XVII and his land.XVIII You shall doXIX to Ai and its king as you did to JerichoXX and its king,

Notes on verses 1e-2a

XVII “city” = iyr. From uwr (to awaken or wake oneself up). This can mean excitement in the sense of wakefulness or city. Properly, this is a place that is guarded. Guards kept schedules according to watches. This sense of the word would include cities as well as encampments or posts that were guarded.
XVIII “land” = erets. Root may mean to be firm. This is earth, ground, field land, or country.
XIX “do” = asah. This is to make, do, act, appoint, become in many senses.
XX “Jericho” = Yericho. From yareach (moon); {from the same as yerach (month)} OR from ruach (smell, breathe, perceive, anticipate, accept, enjoy). This is Jericho meaning either “moon city” or “fragrant place.”

exceptXXI that you may take its spoilXXII and plunderXXIII its livestockXXIV for yourselves. SetXXV an ambushXXVI against the city, behindXXVII it.”

Notes on verse 2b

XXI “except” = raq. From the same as raq (thin, surely, only); perhaps from raqaq (to spit). This is but, except, at least. In the sense of being thin, it figuratively refers to some kind of limit.
XXII “spoil” = shalal. From shalal (to plunder, loot, capture). This is spoil, prey, or plunder.
XXIII “take…plunder” = bazaz. This is to spoil, loot, pillage.
XXIV “livestock” = behemah. This is animal or cattle. It is often used of large quadrupeds.
XXV “set” = sim. This is to put or place in a literal or figurative sense. It can be appoint, care, change, make, and may other things.
XXVI “ambush” = arab. This is to lie in wait, lurk, or ambush.
XXVII “behind” = achar. From achar (to remain behind, linger, continue, be behind, or delay; can also imply procrastination). This is after or the last part, following.

So Joshua and all the fighting men set outXXVIII to go up against Ai. Joshua choseXXIX thirtyXXX thousandXXXI, XXXII

Notes on verse 3a

XXVIII “set out” = qum. Same as {untranslated} in v1. See note X above.
XXIX “chose” = bachar. This is to choose, appoint, try, excellent.
XXX “thirty” = sheloshim. From the same as shalosh (three, fork, triad). This is thirty or thirtieth.
XXXI “thousand” = eleph. Perhaps from the same as eleph (herd, cattle); from alaph (to learn, speak, associate with). This is thousand.
XXXII {untranslated} = ish. Perhaps from enosh (human, humankind, mortal); from anash (to be weak, sick, or frail). This is man, husband, another, or humankind.

warriorsXXXIII and sent them outXXXIV by nightXXXV 

Notes on verse 3b

XXXIII “warriors” = gibbor + chayil. Gibbor is from gabar (to be strong or mighty; to prevail or be insolent). This is strong, mighty, or powerful. This can imply a warrior, hero, or tyrant. Chayil is from chul (to be firm, strong, prosperous; to endure). This is strength, wealth, ability, activity. It can refer to soldier or a company of soldiers as well as goods. It is a force of people, means, or goods. It can speak of valor, virtue, or strength.
XXXIV “sent…out” = shalach. This is to send out, away, send for, forsake. It can also mean to divorce or set a slave free.
XXXV “night” = layil. Properly, this refers to light twisting away. It is used for night or midnight. Figuratively, this can mean adversity.

with the command,XXXVI, XXXVIIXXXVIIIYou shall lie in ambushXXXIX against the city, behind it;

Notes on verse 4a

XXXVI “command” = tsavah. This is to charge, command, order, appoint, or enjoin. This is the root that the Hebrew word for “commandment” comes from (mitsvah).
XXXVII {untranslated} = amar. Same as “said” in v1. See note II above.
XXXVIII {untranslated} = raah. Same as “see” in v1. See note XIII above.
XXXIX “lie in ambush” = arab. Same as “ambush” in v2. See note XXVI above.

do not go veryXL farXLI from the city, but all of you stayXLII alert.XLIII 

Notes on verse 4b

XL “very” = meod. Perhaps from the same as uwd (firebrand, a poker). This is very, greatly, exceedingly. It can also mean vehemence, force, abundance.
XLI “go…far” = rachaq. This is to widen, become distant, cast, or remove. It can be in a literal or figurative sense.
XLII “stay” = hayah. Related to “Lord” and “Joshua” in v1. See note I above.
XLIII “alert” = kun. Properly, this means in a perpendicular position. So, it is set up in a literal sense – establish, fix, fasten, prepare. In a figurative sense, it is certainty, to be firm, faithfulness, render sure or prosperous.

I and all the people who are with me will approachXLIV the city. XLVWhen they come outXLVI againstXLVII us, as before,XLVIII

Notes on verse 5a

XLIV “approach” = qarab. This is to come near, offer, make ready, approach, take.
XLV {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
XLVI “come out” = yatsa. This is to go or come out, bring forth, appear. It is to go out in a literal or figurative sense.
XLVII “against” = qirah. From the same as qara (to happen, meet, bring about). This is any kind of encounter, whether peaceful, hostile, or incidental. It can also mean help or seek.
XLVIII “before” = rishon. From rishah (beginning or early time); from rosh (head, captain, or chief; excellent or the forefront; first in position or in statue or in time). This is first, former, ancestor, beginning, ranked first.

we will fleeXLIX fromL them. 

They will come out afterLI us until we have drawn them awayLII from the city, for they will say, ‘They are fleeing fromLIII us as before.’ While we flee fromLIV them, 

Notes on verses 5b-6

XLIX “flee” = nus. This is to flee, vanish away, hide, escape, be displayed.
L “from” = paneh. From panah (to turn, face, appear). This is face in a literal or figurative sense. It could be face, presence, anger, respect. It can also be used of God to indicate divine favor or presence.
LI “after” = achar. Same as “behind” in v2. See note XXVII above.
LII “drawn…away” = nathaq. This is to pull, tear off, drag, separate, lift, burst, root out, or snap.
LIII “from” = paneh. Same as “from” in v5. See note L above.
LIV “from” = paneh. Same as “from” in v5. See note L above.

you shall rise upLV from the ambush and seizeLVI the city, for the Lord your GodLVII will giveLVIII it into your hand.LIX 

Notes on verse 7

LV “rise up” = qum. Same as {untranslated} in v1. See note X above.
LVI “seize” = yarash. This is inheriting or dispossessing. It refers to occupying or colonizing – taking territory by driving out the previous inhabitants and living there instead of them. By implication, it can mean to seize or rob, to expel, ruin, or impoverish.
LVII “God” = Elohim.
LVIII “give” = natan. Same as “handed over” in v1. See note XIV above.
LIX “hand” = yad. Same as “handed over” in v1. See note XIV above.

AndLX when you have takenLXI the city, you shall setLXII the city on fire,LXIII doing as the Lord has ordered;LXIV see, I have commanded you.” 

Notes on verse 8

LX {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
LXI “taken” = taphas. This is to catch, seize, wield, capture. It can also mean to use unwarrantably.
LXII “set” = yatsath. This is to burn or be desolate.
LXIII “fire” = esh. This is fire, burning, flaming, hot. It is fire in a literal or figurative sense.
LXIV “ordered” = dabar. Literally, “according to the commandment of the Lord.” From dabar (to speak, declare, discuss). This is speech, a word, a matter, an affair, charge, command, message, promise, purpose, report, request. It is a word, which implies things that are spoken of in a wide sense.

So Joshua sent them out, and they wentLXV to the place of ambushLXVI and layLXVII

Notes on verse 9a

LXV “went” = halak. This is go, come, walk. It is walk literally and figuratively and includes people and animals. It can be used figuratively for one’s moral life – how we walk according to God’s way or against it. It can also refer to the walk of life as in the course one’s life takes, the choices we make, etc.
LXVI “place of ambush” = maarab. Related to “ambush” in v2. 5x in OT. From arab (see note XXVI above). This is ambush or a place where one lurks. This could refer to the trap itself, the place of ambush, or the troops involved in the ambush.
LXVII “lay” = yashab. This is to sit and so to remain and so to dwell. It is sitting for any reason – as a judge, in order to ambush, or just sitting quietly. Causatively, this can mean settling or marrying. This can also mean continue, endure, or establish.

betweenLXVIII BethelLXIX andLXX Ai, to the westLXXI of Ai,

Notes on verse 9b

LXVIII “between” = bayin. From bin (to discern, consider, attend to; distinguishing things in one’s mind or, more generally, to understand). This is among, between, interval.
LXIX “Bethel” = Betheel. Related to “God” in v7. From bayit (house, household, palace, dungeon); {from banah (to build, make, set up, obtain children; to build literally or figuratively)} + El (see note LVII above). This is Bethel, literally meaning “house of God.”
LXX {untranslated} = bayin. Same as “between” in v9. See note LXVIII above.
LXXI “west = yam. Root may mean to roar. This is the sea, often referring to the Mediterranean. It comes from the root in the sense of the roar of crashing surf. This word is sometimes used for rivers or other sources of water. It can mean to the west or to the south.

but Joshua spentLXXII that night withLXXIII the people.

10 In the morningLXXIV Joshua rose earlyLXXV

Notes on verses 9c-10a

LXXII “spent” = lun. This is to stop – usually to lodge for the night. It can imply dwelling, enduring, or staying permanently. Figuratively, it can mean being obstinate, particularly with one’s words – to complain.
LXXIII “with” = tavek. This is among, middle, in the midst, the center. Perhaps, properly, to sever.
LXXIV “morning” = boqer. From baqar (to seek, plow, break forth, admire, care for). This refers to the break of day. So it is dawn, early, morning, or morrow.
LXXV “rose early” = shakam. This is leaning one’s shoulder into a burden or load, whether a person or an animal. Thus, it meant starting or rising early.

and musteredLXXVI the people and went up, with the eldersLXXVII of Israel,LXXVIII beforeLXXIX the people to Ai. 

Notes on verse 10b

LXXVI “mustered” = paqad. This is to attend to or visit – can be used for a friendly or violent encounter. So, it can be to oversee, care for, avenge, or charge.
LXXVII “elders” = zaqen. From the same as zaqan (beard or chin – the beard represents old age). This is old, aged, or elder.
LXXVIII “Israel” = Yisrael. Related to “God” in v7 & “Bethel” in v9. From sarah (to persist, exert oneself, contend, persevere, wrestle, prevail) + El (see note LVII above). This is Israel, meaning God strives or one who strives with God; new name for Jacob and for his offspring. This refers to the people and to the land.
LXXIX “before” = paneh. Same as “from” in v5. See note L above.

11 All the fighting men who were with him went up and drew nearLXXX, LXXXI beforeLXXXII the city and campedLXXXIII on the north sideLXXXIV of Ai,

Notes on verse 11a

LXXX “drew near” = nagash. This is to draw, bring, or come near. It is approaching for any reason – as an attack on an enemy, in order to worship, to make an argument. It can also be used as a euphemism for sex.
LXXXI {untranslated} = bo. This is to enter, come in, advance, fulfill, bring offerings, enter to worship, attack. It can also have a sexual connotation.
LXXXII “before” = neged. From nagad (to declare, make conspicuous, stand in front, manifest, predict, explain). This is in front of, opposite to. It can refer to a counterpart or partner, one corresponding to or in the sight of.
LXXXIII “camped” = chanah. This is decline, bending down, or living in tents. It can be camping to create a home or camping as a part of battle.
LXXXIV “north side” = tsaphon. From tsaphan (to hide, hoard, reserve; to cover over or figuratively to deny; also to lurk). This is properly hidden, dark, or gloomy. It can also be used to refer to the north.

with a ravineLXXXV between them andLXXXVI Ai. 12 TakingLXXXVII about fiveLXXXVIII thousand men,LXXXIX he setXC them in ambush between Bethel andXCI Ai, to the west of the city. 

Notes on verses 11b-12

LXXXV “ravine” = gay. Perhaps from the same as gevah (pride, confidence); from gevah (the back or body); from gey (the back, among); from ga’ah (to grow up, rise, triumph, be majestic). This is valley or gorge that has high walls. It is, perhaps, a narrow valley, but not a winter-torrent.
LXXXVI {untranslated} = bayin. Same as “between” in v9. See note LXVIII above.
LXXXVII “taking” = laqach. Same as “take” in v1. See note VI above.
LXXXVIII “five” = chamesh. This is five or fifth.
LXXXIX “men” = ish. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XXXII above.
XC “set” = sim. Same as “set” in v2. See note XXV above.
XCI {untranslated} = bayin. Same as “between” in v9. See note LXVIII above.

13 So they stationedXCII, XCIII theXCIV forces,XCV

Notes on verse 13a

XCII “stationed” = sim. Same as “set” in v2. See note XXV above.
XCIII {untranslated} = am. Same as “men” in v1. See note IX above.
XCIV {untranslated} = kol. Same as “all” in v1. See note VII above.
XCV “forces” = machaneh. Related to “camped” in v11. From chanah (see note LXXXIII above). This is an encampment, whether of people traveling together or soldiers. So, it can be a camp band, or company as well as an army of soldiers. Also can be used of other groups like animals, angels or stars.

the main encampment that was north of the city and its rear guardXCVI west of the city, and Joshua went that night intoXCVII the valley.XCVIII 14 XCIXWhen the king of Ai saw this, he and all his people, the inhabitantsC of the city,

Notes on verses 13b-14a

XCVI “rear guard” = aqeb. 13x in OT. This is heel, hind part, hoof, rear guard of an army, one who lies in wait, or usurper.
XCVII “into” = tavek. Same as “with” in v9. See note LXXIII above.
XCVIII “valley” = emeq. From amoq (to be deep in a literal or figurative sense; profound). This is Vale or valley – frequently part of place names.
XCIX {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
C “inhabitants” = enosh. Related to {untranslated} in v3. See note XXXII above.

hurriedCI outCII early in the morningCIII to the meeting placeCIV

Notes on verse 14b

CI “hurried” = mahar. This is being liquid, which implies flowing. So, this word implies hurrying forward, whether in a positive or negative sense.
CII “out” = yatsa. Same as “come out” in v5. See note XVI above.
CIII “early in the morning” = shakam. Same as “rose early” in v10. See note LXXV above.
CIV “meeting places” = moed. From yaad (to appoint, assemble or gather selves, agree). This is a meeting, assembly, fixed time. It can be used for a festival or feast. It can also refer to a meeting place.

facingCV the ArabahCVI to meetCVII Israel in battle,CVIII but he did not knowCIX that there was an ambush against him behind the city. 

Notes on verse 14c

CV “facing” = paneh. Same as “from” in v5. See note L above.
CVI “Arabah” = Arabah. From the same as arab (desert plateau, Arabia) OR from arab (to become evening); {from ereb (evening) or from arab (to exchange, give or take on pledge, braid, intermix)}. This is a desert valley or plain, wilderness. Also, the name of a place Arabah.
CVII “meet” = qirah. Same as “against” in v4. See note XLVII above.
CVIII “battle” = milchamah. Same as “fighting” in v1. See note VIII above.
CIX “know” = yada. This is to know, acknowledge, advise, answer, be aware, be acquainted with. Properly, this is to figure something out by seeing. It includes ideas of observation, recognition, and care about something. It can be used causatively for instruction, designation, and punishment.

15 And Joshua and all Israel made a pretense of being beatenCX beforeCXI them and fled in the directionCXII of the wilderness.CXIII 

Notes on verse 15

CX “beaten” = naga. This is touch, reach, arrive, come near, strike. This is touching for any reason including sexual or violent.
CXI “before” = paneh. Same as “from” in v5. See note L above.
CXII “direction” = derek. From darak (to tread, march, to walk. Can also mean affixing a string to a box since one needs to step on it to bend it in the process; so also an archer). This is a road as a thing that is walked on. Can be used figuratively for the path that one’s life takes or how one chooses to live one’s life.
CXIII “wilderness” = midbar. Related to “ordered” in v8. From dabar (see note LXI above). This is mouth or speech. It can also be desert or wilderness. Additionally, it can be used for a pasture to which one drives cattle.

16 So all the people who were in the cityCXIV were called togetherCXV to pursueCXVI them, and as they pursued Joshua they were drawn away from the city. 17 There was not a manCXVII leftCXVIII in AiCXIX 

Notes on verses 16-17a

CXIV “city” = Ay. Same as “Ai” in v1. See note XII above.
CXV “called together” = zaaq. This is to cry or call out. It can be a call to assemble or gather together. By analogy, this could refer to a herald who announces a public gathering. It could also be a shriek from pain or danger.
CXVI “pursue” = radaph + achar. Radaph is to chase after, pursue, hunt, or persecute. It is running after someone or something, generally with hostile motives. Achar is from achar (to remain behind, linger, continue, be behind, or delay; can also imply procrastination). This is after or the last part, following.
CXVII “man” = ish. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XXXII above.
CXVIII “was…left” = shaar. Properly, this is swelling up i.e. being left over, a remnant, remaining, being redundant.
CXIX {untranslated} = Betheel. Same as “Bethel” in v9. See note LXIX above.

who did not go outCXX after Israel; they leftCXXI the city openCXXII and pursued Israel.

18 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “Stretch outCXXIII the swordCXXIV that is in your hand toward Ai, for I will give it into your hand.” And Joshua stretched out the sword that was in his hand toward the city. 

Notes on verses 17b-18

CXX “go out” = yatsa. Same as “come out” in v5. See note XVI above.
CXXI “left” = azab. To loosen, relinquish, permit, forsake, fail, leave destitute.
CXXII “open” = pathach. This is to open wide in a literal or figurative sense. So, it is open, draw out, let something go free, break forth. It can also mean to plow, engrave, or carve.
CXXIII “stretch out” = natah. This is to stretch or spread out, to extend, or bend. In can also imply moral deflection.
CXXIV “sword” = kidon. 9x in OT. Perhaps from the same as kiyd (bad luck, decay, calamity). This is something that you use to strike a target. So, it can be a dart, spear, lance, or shield.

19 As soon as he stretched out his hand, the troops in ambush rose quicklyCXXV out of their placeCXXVI and rushedCXXVII forward. They enteredCXXVIII the city, tookCXXIX it,

Notes on verse 19a

CXXV “quickly” = meherah. Related to “hurried” in v14. From mahar (see note CI above). This is speed, quickly, shortly, promptly.
CXXVI “place” = maqom. Related to {untranslated} in v1. From qum(see note X above). This is a standing, which is to say a spot or space a place. It can also refer to a locality or a physical/mental condition. HaMaqom is also a Jewish name for God – the place, i.e. the Omnipresent One.
CXXVII “rushed” = ruts. This is to run or rush, divide quickly, bring swiftly. It can also refer to a footman or guard.
CXXVIII “entered” = bo. Same as {untranslated} in v11. See note LXXXI above.
CXXIX “took” = lakad. This is to capture, seize, or imprison. It is to catch something in a snare or net or trap. It can also mean to occupy of select something by casting lots.

and at onceCXXX setCXXXI the city on fire. 20 So when the menCXXXII of Ai lookedCXXXIII back,CXXXIV

Notes on verses 19b-20a

CXXX “at once” = mahar. Same as “hurried” in v14. See note CI above.
CXXXI “set” = yatsath. Same as “set” in v8. See note LXII above.
CXXXII “men” = ish. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XXXII above.
CXXXIII “looked” = panah. Related to “from” in v5. See note L above.
CXXXIV “back” = achar. Same as “behind” in v2. See note XXVII above.

CXXXVthe smokeCXXXVI of the city was risingCXXXVII to the sky.CXXXVIII

Notes on verse 20b

CXXXV {untranslated} = raah + hinneh. Raah is the same as “see” in v1. See note XIII above. Hinneh is from hen (lo! Behold! If, though; an expression of surprise). This is to draw attention, show suddenness or surprise, or to emphasize the importance of the coming statement. See! Lo! Behold!
CXXXVI “smoke” = ashan. From ashan (to smoke or burn in a literal or figurative sense; to be angry). This is smoke, vapor, dust, or anger.
CXXXVII “rising” = alah. Same as “go up” in v1. See note XI above.
CXXXVIII “sky” = shamayim. Root may mean being lofty. This is sky, the air, or heaven. It is in a dual noun form so this might refer to the part of the sky where the clouds move on the one hand and the part beyond that where the sun, moon, and stars are on the other hand.

They hadCXXXIX no powerCXL to flee this way or that,CXLI for the people who fled to the wilderness turned backCXLII against the pursuers.CXLIII 

Notes on verse 20c

CXXXIX “had” = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
CXL “power” = yad. Same as “handed over” in v1. See note XIV above.
CXLI “this way or that” = hennah + hennah. Related to {untranslated} in v20. Perhaps from hen (see note CXXXV above). This is here in a location or here in a time, i.e. now.
CXLII “turned back” = haphak. This is to turn, overturn, change, return, turn over, pervert.
CXLIII “pursuers” = radaph. Same as “pursue” in v16. See note CXVI above.

21 When Joshua and all Israel saw that the ambush had takenCXLIV the city and that the smoke of the city was rising,CXLV then they turned backCXLVI and struck downCXLVII the menCXLVIII of Ai. 

Notes on verse 21

CXLIV “taken” = lakad. Same as “took” in v19. See note CXXIX above.
CXLV “rising” = alah. Same as “go up” in v1. See note XI above.
CXLVI “turned back” = shub. To turn back, return, turn away – literally or figuratively. Doesn’t necessarily imply going back to where you started from. This is also the root verb for the Hebrew word for repentance “teshubah.”
CXLVII “struck down” = nakah. This is to hit whether lightly or severely. It can be used in a literal or figurative sense. So, this could be beat, punish, give wounds, kill, or slaughter.
CXLVIII “men” = enosh. Same as “inhabitants” in v14. See note C above.

22 And the other Israelites came out from the city against them, so they wereCXLIX surroundedCL by Israelites, some on one side and some on the other, and Israel struck them down until no oneCLI was leftCLII who survivedCLIII or escaped.CLIV 

Notes on verse 22

CXLIX “were” = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
CL “surrounded” = tavek. Same as “with” in v9. See note LXXIII above.
CLI “no one” = bilti. From balah (to grow old, wear out, consume, waste, enjoy, fail, decay). This is nothing, not, lest, or except. From its root, it means “a failure of” – used for negative particles.
CLII “was left” = shaar. Same as “was…left” in v17. See note CXVIII above.
CLIII “survived” = sarid. From sarad (to escape or remain; properly, this refers to a puncture, so figuratively it is remaining or escaping by slipping out). This is survivor, remnant, or alive.
CLIV “escaped” = paliyt. From palat (to escape, slip out, deliver, calve). This is escaped, i.e. one who has gotten away such as a fugitive or refugee.

23 But the king of Ai was takenCLV aliveCLVI and broughtCLVII to Joshua.

24 CLVIIIWhen Israel had finishedCLIX killingCLX all the inhabitantsCLXI of Ai

Notes on verses 23-24a

CLV “taken” = taphas. Same as “taken” in v8. See note LXI above.
CLVI “alive” = chay. From chayah (to live or keep alive literally or figuratively). This is alive, living, lifetime. It can also be used to describe someone’s age. It can refer to animals, plants, water, or a company or congregation of people. It is life in a very broad sense.
CLVII “brought” = qarab. Same as “approach” in v5. See note XLIV above.
CLVIII {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
CLIX “finished” = kalah. This is to end, be finished, complete, prepare, consume, spent, or completely destroyed.
CLX “killing” = harag. This is to strike with deadly intent so it can be kill, destroy, murder, or put to death.
CLXI “inhabitants” = yashab. Same as “lay” in v9. See note LXVII above.

in the openCLXII wilderness where they pursued them, and when all of them to the very lastCLXIII had fallenCLXIV

Notes on verse 24b

CLXII “open” = sadeh. From the same as shadday (almighty, field, land); from shadad (to devastate, ruin, destroy, oppress, be powerful). Or, it may be from a word that means to spread out. This is field, ground, soil, or land. It can be used to mean wild as in a wild animal.
CLXIII “very last” = tamam. This is to finish or accomplish. It is to make perfect, demonstrate that you are upright, consume or cease. It is to complete in a literal or figurative sense, positive or negative.
CLXIV “fallen” = naphal. This is to fall, whether by accident, to fall prostrate, or to fall in violent death. Figuratively, it can refer to personal ruin or calamity, a city falling, an attack or a falling away. It can also be a deep sleep or wasting away.

by the edgeCLXV of the sword,CLXVI all Israel returnedCLXVII to Ai and attackedCLXVIII it with the edge of the sword.CLXIX 

Notes on verse 24c

CLXV “edge” = peh. This is mouth in a literal or figurative sense. So, more literally, it can be beak or jaws. More figuratively, it refers to speech, commands, or promises.
CLXVI “sword” = chereb. From charab (to attack, slay). This is any sharp instrument like a sword, dagger, axe, or mattock.
CLXVII “returned” = shub. Same as “turned back” in v21. See note CXLVI above.
CLXVIII “attacked” = nakah. Same as “struck down” in v21. See note CXLVII above.
CLXIX “sword” = chereb. Same as “sword” in v24. See note CLXVI above.

25 CLXXThe totalCLXXI of those who fell that day,CLXXII both menCLXXIII and women,CLXXIV was twelveCLXXV thousand—all the peopleCLXXVI of Ai. 

Notes on verse 25

CLXX {untranslated} = hayah. Same as “stay” in v4. See note XLII above.
CLXXI “total” = kol. Same as “all” in v1. See note VII above.
CLXXII “day” = yom. Root may mean being hot. This is the day in a literal or figurative sense. It can also mean birth, age, daylight, continually or other references to time.
CLXXIII “men” = ish. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XXXII above.
CLXXIV “women” = ishshah. Related to {untranslated} in v3 & “inhabitants” in v14. From ish (see note XXXII above). This is woman, wife, or female.
CLXXV “twelve” = shenayim + asar. Shenayim is from sheni (double, again, another, second); from shanah (to fold, repeat, double, alter, or disguise). This is two, both, second, couple. Asar is from the same as eser (ten). This is -teen or -teenth.
CLXXVI “people” = ish. Same as {untranslated} in v3. See note XXXII above.

26 For Joshua did not draw backCLXXVII his hand with which he stretched out the swordCLXXVIII until he had utterly destroyedCLXXIX all the inhabitantsCLXXX of Ai. 27 OnlyCLXXXI the livestock and the spoil of that city Israel plundered for themselves, according to the wordCLXXXII of the Lord that he had issuedCLXXXIII to Joshua. 

Notes on verses 26-27

CLXXVII “draw back” = shub. Same as “turned back” in v21. See note CXLVI above.
CLXXVIII “sword” = kidon. Same as “sword” in v18. See note CXXIV above.
CLXXIX “utterly destroyed” = charam. This is to ban, destroy, devote, seclude. It is to dedicate to a religious purpose, often for destruction.
CLXXX “inhabitants” = yashab. Same as “lay” in v9. See note LXVII above.
CLXXXI “only” = raq. Same as “except” in v2. See note XXI above.
CLXXXII “word” = dabar. Same as “ordered” in v8. See note LXIV above.
CLXXXIII “issued” = tsavah. Same as “command” in v4. See note XXXVI above.

28 So Joshua burnedCLXXXIV Ai and madeCLXXXV it foreverCLXXXVI a heapCLXXXVII of ruins,CLXXXVIII as it is to this day. 

Notes on verse 28

CLXXXIV “burned” = saraph. This is to burn or kindle. This is the root that “seraphim” comes from.
CLXXXV “made” = sim. Same as “set” in v2. See note XXV above.
CLXXXVI “forever” = olam. This is a long scope of time whether in the past (antiquity, ancient time) or in the future (eternal, everlasting).
CLXXXVII “heap” = tel. 5x in OT– 1x in Deuteronomy, 2x in Joshua, & 2x in Jeremiah. Perhaps from talal (to mock, deceive, cheat, pile up, elevate). This is a mound or heap. It is used to refer to ruins. It can also mean strength.
CLXXXVIII “ruins” = shemamah. From shamem (to be appalled, astonished; to stun or devastate, be destitute). This is a devastation, ruin, or waste.

29 And he hangedCLXXXIX the king of Ai on a treeCXC until evening,CXCI and at sunsetCXCII Joshua commanded,

Notes on verse 29a

CLXXXIX “hanged” = talah. This is to hang or suspend. It can also be used for hanging someone on gallows.
CXC “tree” = ets. Perhaps from atsah (to shut, fasten, firm up, to close one’s eyes). This is tree or other things related to trees like wood, sticks, or stalks. It can also refer to wood products like a plank or staff or gallows. Additionally, this can refer to a carpenter.
CXCI “evening” = eth + ereb. Eth is probably from anah (to answer, sing, announce); from ad (forever, all, old); from adah (to pass on, advance, decorate oneself). This is a period or season. It can also mean whenever or continually. Ereb is related to “Arabah.” See note CVI above.
CXCII “sunset” = bo + shemesh. Bo is the same as {untranslated} in v11. See note LXXXI above. Shemesh is sun or toward the east. Its root may mean being brilliant. Figuratively, this could be a ray or an arch.

and they took his bodyCXCIII downCXCIV from the tree, threw it downCXCV at the entranceCXCVI of the gateCXCVII of the city,

Notes on verse 29b

CXCIII “body” = nebelah. From nabel (to fall away, faint, wither, languish, sink; figuratively, being senseless, foolish, or wicked; to despise, disgrace, or fall to nothing, to be seen with contempt). This is a body, whether human or animal. It can also refer to an idol.
CXCIV “took…down” = yarad. This is to go down, descend; going down in a literal or figurative sense. It can be going to the shore or a boundary, bringing down an enemy.
CXCV “threw…down” = shalak. This is to throw, fling, or hurl. It can also be to throw away in a literal or figurative sense.
CXCVI “entrance” = pethach. Related to “open” in v17. From pathach (see note CXXII above). This is any kind of opening – a door, entrance, gate.
CXCVII “gate” = shaar. May be related to sha’ar (to calculate or reckon; may come from a root that means to open up or split). This is a gate, door, or other opening like a port.

and raisedCXCVIII over it a greatCXCIX heapCC of stones,CCI which stands there to this day.

Notes on verse 29c

CXCVIII “raised” = qum. Same as {untranslated} in v1. See note X above.
CXCIX “great” = gadol. From gadal (to grow up, become great, become wealthy – to advance. The root meaning may be to twist in the sense of the process of growing). This is great, high, bigger, noble, old, marvelous. It can also refer to someone who is powerful or distinguished.
CC “heap” = gal. From galal (to roll, roll away, wallow, commit, remove; rolling in a literal or figurative sense). This is a wave, billow, rock pile, something rolled, a spring of water.
CCI “stones” = eben. This is a stone, weight, or mason. It is part of the word “Ebenezer.”

30 Then Joshua builtCCII on MountCCIII EbalCCIV an altarCCV to the Lord, the God of Israel, 

Notes on verse 30

CCII “built” = banah. Related to “Bethel” in v9. See note LXIX above.
CCIII “Mount” = har. From harar (hill or mountain). This is mountain, hill, hilly region.
CCIV “Ebal” = Eybal. 8x in OT. Perhaps from avah (to bend, twist) + balah (to grow old, wear out, consume, waste, enjoy, fail, decay). This is Ebal, which is a personal name and the name of a mountain. It may come from a root that means being bald. So, it may mean “heap of barrenness,” “stony,” or “Bel is ruin.” See https://www.abarim-publications.com/Meaning/Ebal.html
CCV “altar” = mizbeach. From zabach (to kill, slay, offer; slaughtering an animal to offer as a sacrifice). This is an altar.

31 just as MosesCCVI the servantCCVII of the Lord had commanded the Israelites,CCVIII

Notes on verse 31a

CCVI “Moses” = Mosheh. From mashah (to pull out in a literal or figurative sense, to draw out) OR from Egyptian mes or mesu (child, son i.e. child of…). This is Moses – the one drawn out from the water, which is to say, rescued. If derived from the Egyptian, his name would share a root with Rameses and Thutmose.
CCVII “servant” = ebed. From abad (to work, serve, compel; any kind of work; used causatively, can mean to enslave or keep in bondage). This is a servant, slave, or bondservant.
CCVIII “Israelites” = ben + Yisrael. Literally, “children of Israel.” Ben is related to “Bethel” in v9 & “built” in v30. From banah (see note LXIX above). This is son, age, child. It is son in a literal or figurative sense. Yisrael is the same as “Israel” in v10. See note LXXVIII above.

as it is writtenCCIX in the bookCCX of the lawCCXI of Moses,

Notes on verse 31b

CCIX “written” = kathab. This is to inscribe, write, record, or decree.
CCX “book” = sepher. Perhaps from saphar (to tally or record something; to enumerate, recount, number, celebrate, or declare). This can be writing itself or something that is written like a document, book, letter, evidence, bill, scroll, or register.
CCXI “law” = torah. From yarah (to throw, shoot, be stunned; to flow as water so figuratively to instruct or teach). This is law, instruction, teaching, or statute. It can also refer to the first five books of the Bible – the Torah.

“an altar of unhewnCCXII stones, on which no ironCCXIII tool has been used,”CCXIV

Notes on verse 31c

CCXII “unhewn” = shalem. From shalam (to be complete or sound; to have safety mentally, physically, or extending to one’s estate; so, if these things are safe and complete, the implication is that one would be friendly; and, if being friendly, one would make amends and that friendship would be reciprocated). This is safe, blameless, perfect, at peace, whole, friendly. It is complete in a literal or a figurative sense.
CCXIII “iron” = barzel. From the same as Birzoth (a name meaning holes). Root may mean to pierce. This is iron as something used as a cutting implement. It can also specifically mean ax head.
CCXIV “used” = nuph. This is to rock back and forth, wave, sprinkle, quiver, beckon, offer, present.

and they offeredCCXV on it burnt offeringsCCXVI to the Lord and sacrificedCCXVII offerings of well-being.CCXVIII 

Notes on verse 31d

CCXV “offered” = alah. Same as “go up” in v1. See note XI above.
CCXVI “burnt offerings” = olah. Related to “go up” in v1. From alah (see note XI above). This is a step, stairs, or some kind of ascent. It is also used for whole burnt offerings, being the offering in which the whole thing is burned and rises as smoke. Burnt offerings were the least common of the offerings: most were eaten, shared with the priest and the one bringing the offering.
CCXVII “sacrificed” = zabach. Related to “altar” in v30. See note CCV above.
CCXVIII “offerings of well-being” = shelem. Related to “unhewn” in v31. From shalam (see note CCXII above). This is a peace offering or a sacrifice of well-being. It was a voluntary offering given when one celebrated thanksgiving, alliance, or friendship.

32 And there, in the presence ofCCXIX the Israelites, Joshua wrote on the stones a copyCCXX of the law of Moses that he had written. 33 All Israel, alienCCXXI as well as native-born,CCXXII with their elders and officersCCXXIII and their judges,CCXXIV

Notes on verses 32-33a

CCXIX “in the presence of” = paneh. Same as “from” in v5. See note L above.
CCXX “copy” = mishneh. Related to “twelve” in v25. From shanah (see note CLXXV above). This is double, second, next, duplicate. It can also be second in rank or age.
CCXXI “alien” = ger. From gur (to abide or sojourn; to leave the road to lodge or for any other reason). This is sojourner, guest, stranger, foreigner.
CCXXII “native-born” = ezrach. 17x in OT. From zarach (to rise, shine, or dawn; can also describe symptoms of leprosy). This is native or native-born. It can also refer to spontaneous growth, a bay tree.
CCXXIII “officers” = shoter. The root may mean write. This is perhaps originally a scribe and so it was used more broadly for an official, officer, ruler, overseer, or magistrate.
CCXXIV “judges” = shaphat. This is to judge, defend, pronounce judgment, condemn, or govern. It can refer to God judging or to human judges. This is pronouncing a verdict in favor or against so it implies consequences or punishment. It can also mean to litigate or govern as one with authority.

stoodCCXXV on opposite sides of the arkCCXXVI in front ofCCXXVII the LeviticalCCXXVIII priestsCCXXIX

Notes on verse 33b

CCXXV “stood” = amad. This is to stand up in a literal or figurative sense. So it can be establish, continue, endure, take a stand, act, be a servant, stand still, remain, stand against an enemy.
CCXXVI “ark” = aron. Perhaps from arah (to gather or pluck). This is a chest, box, or coffin. It is used for the Ark of the Covenant.
CCXXVII “in front of” = neged. Same as “before” in v11. See note LXXXII above.
CCXXVIII “Levitical” = Leviyyi. From Levi (Levi; perhaps meaning “attached”; Jacob’s son, his tribe, and descendants); perhaps from lavah (to join, twine, unite, remain, borrow, lend). This is Levite or levitical.
CCXXIX “priests” = kohen. This is literally the one who officiates i.e. the priest. This is where the Jewish last name “Cohen” (and its variants) comes from.

who carriedCCXXX the ark of the covenantCCXXXI of the Lord, halfCCXXXII of them in front ofCCXXXIII Mount GerizimCCXXXIV

Notes on verse 33c

CCXXX “carried” = nasa. This is to lift in a broad sense, literally and figuratively. So it could be to carry, take, or arise. It could also be bring forth, advance, accept.
CCXXXI “covenant” = berit. Perhaps from barah (to eat, choose, make clear); perhaps from bar (grain, wheat); from barar (to select, purify, cleanse, test, brighten, polish). This is a compact, covenant, alliance, treaty, or league.
CCXXXII “half” = chatsi. From chatsah (to halve, divide, reach, participate). This is half, middle, midnight, midst.
CCXXXIII “in front of” = mul. Perhaps from mul (to cut short, circumcise, blunt, destroy). This is in front of, opposite, with, abrupt. Literally, it refers to some kind of precipice.
CCXXXIV “Gerizim” = Gerizim. 4x in OT. From garaz (to cut, cut off). This is Gerizim, which may mean “rocky.”

and half of them in front ofCCXXXV Mount Ebal, as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded earlier,CCXXXVI that they should blessCCXXXVII the peopleCCXXXVIII of Israel. 

Notes on verse 33d

CCXXXV “in front of” = mul. Same as “in front of” in v33. See note CCXXXIV above.
CCXXXVI “earlier” = rishon. Same as “before” in v5. See note XLVIII above.
CCXXXVII “bless” = barak. This is to kneel, to bless. It is blessing God as part of worship and adoration or blessing humans to help them. It can be used as a euphemism to say curse God.
CCXXXVIII “people” = am. Same as “men” in v1. See note IX above.

34 And afterwardCCXXXIX he readCCXL all the words of the law, blessingsCCXLI and curses,CCXLII according to all that is written in the book of the law. 

Notes on verse 34

CCXXXIX “afterward” = achar + ken. Achar is the same as “behind” in v2. See note XXVII above. Ken is related to “alert” in v4. Perhaps from kun (see note XLIII above). This is to set upright. Generally used figuratively to mean thus, so, afterwards, rightly so.
CCXL “read” = qara. This is to call or call out – to call someone by name. Also used more broadly for calling forth.
CCXLI “blessings” = barakah. Related to “bless” in v33. From barak (see note CCXXXVII above). This is blessing, which implies prosperity or peace.
CCXLII “curses” = qelalah. From qalal (to be little, insignificant, swift; to bring down in esteem, create contempt, curse). This is cursing or vilification.

35 There was not a word of all that Moses commanded that Joshua did not read beforeCCXLIII all the assemblyCCXLIV of Israel, and the women, and the little ones,CCXLV and the aliens who residedCCXLVI amongCCXLVII them.

Notes on verse 35

CCXLIII “before” = neged. Same as “before” in v11. See note LXXXII above.
CCXLIV “assembly” = qahal. This is an assembly, congregation, or multitude.
CCXLV “little ones” = taph. From taphaph (walking along with small, tripping steps like children do). This is little ones, children, families.
CCXLVI “resided” = halak. Same as “went” in v9. See note LXV above.
CCXLVII “among” = qereb. Related to “approach” in v5. Perhaps from qarab (see note XLIV above). This is among, in the midst, before, the center It is the inward part, whether literal or figurative. It can also be used for the heart, the site of thoughts and feelings. This word is also used as a technical term for the entrails of the animals who are sacrificed.


Image credit: “Under the command of Joshua, the Israelites captured the city of Ai,” from the Walters Manuscript of a Bible illuminated by William de Brailes, circa 1250.

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