What happensPermalink
God commands Israel to conquer Ai. They devise an ambush strategy and destroy the city, killing all its inhabitants, burning the city, and hanging its king. Afterward, they renew the covenant as commanded by Moses on Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal.
Why it mattersPermalink
With God’s backing, Israel easily overthrows Ai, which had previously defeated them. Joshua holding the javelin up during the battle recalls Moses holding his staff up in the battle against the Amalekites in Exodus.
Key versePermalink
“Then you shall rise up from the ambush and seize the city, for the Lord your God will give it into your hand.”