Introduction to Joshua

Name

The English title “Joshua” comes from the Hebrew Yehôšūaʿ, which means “Yahweh saves,” or “Yahweh is salvation.” The book takes its name from the central figure in the book.

Author

The author of the book of Joshua has been the subject of much scholarly debate since the author is not specifically identified in the book itself. The use of the words “we” and “us” indicates the book was written by someone who was an eyewitness to the events. Many details are written in the first person (Joshua 1:2-9, 24:1-25), suggesting that Joshua himself wrote the book. The events included in the book following Joshua’s death were likely added by another eye witness. Some scholars suggest these details may well have been added by Eleazar the high priest, or Joshua’s son Phineas.

Genre

History

Literary Form

Narrative

Time Frame

The book of Joshua picks up immediately following the death of Moses. It covers a time span of approximately  20 years, as it records the Israelite’s entrance into the Promised Land, their conquering of the land, the dividing of the land among the tribes, and concludes with Joshua’s farewell address and death.

Emphasis

Moses has just died, and Joshua is confirmed as the nation’s new leader who is about to lead the people into the Promised Land fulfilling God’s promise.

The book of Joshua emphasizes four major themes:

1. The fulfillment of God’s promise to the Israelites
2. The power of God
3. Obedience to God
4. Faith in God

 Outline

1. The invasion of Canaan (1:1-5:12)
2. The conquest of Canaan (5:13 – 12;24)
3. The division of Canaan (13:1-21:45)
4. Conclusion (22:1-24:33)