When Written: Around 1450 B.C.
Synopsis: The book of Joshua is a historical book that tells the story of Moses’ successor, Joshua. He was with Moses from the very beginning of the journey out of Egypt and was one of Moses’ main assistants. He was mentored by Moses and chosen by God to take over the leadership of the Hebrew children. Joshua led the people into the Promised Land and led them militarily in their battles against the heathen peoples living there. Various battles and sieges of fortified cities are recorded, including the famous battle of Jericho. He then divided up the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe was made up of the descendants of each son of the patriarch, Jacob. However, the descendants of Levi were did not inherit land because their job was to minister to God and to the people. They were cared for by the offerings given by the people, and so had no need to farm land of their own. Various cities were given to them throughout the land in which they were to dwell. Several Levite cities were designated cities of refuge where anyone accused of a serious crime could flee and be safe from avenging people until trial. The Levites and the priesthood were the keepers of the law.
Chapters 1-12 deals with the crossing of the Jordan River, the fall of Jericho, and various battles.
Chapters 13- 22 deals with the division of the land, including the assignment of the Levitical cities and the cities of refuge.
Chapters 23-24 deals with Joshua’s farewell to the people of Israel, his death and his burial.
Key Verse: Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed for the LORD thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest. Joshua 1:9