Joshua 6:18
And ye, in any wise keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed, when ye take of the accursed thing, and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it.
Joshua 6:18 (KJV)
Context
Joshua 6:18 belongs to the account of the conquest of Jericho, the first major battle as Israel entered the Promised Land. God had given Joshua specific instructions: the priests were to carry the Ark of the Covenant and blow trumpets while the people marched around the city for six days. On the seventh day, they were to march around seven times, and when the priests blew the trumpets, the people were to shout, and the walls would collapse.
In this verse, Joshua warns the Israelites to keep themselves from the “accursed thing.” The Hebrew word is cherem, meaning anything devoted to destruction or set apart for God’s judgment. The warning is against laying hold of, hiding, or enjoying as their own what was devoted to another use. The gold, silver, and other metals from Jericho were to be consecrated to the Lord, not kept for personal gain.
Meaning
The phrase “accursed thing” refers to items that were dedicated to God and therefore forbidden for Israel to take. Taking any part of it would make the offender “accursed,” also cherem, meaning devoted to destruction. The same word is used for both the forbidden thing and the resulting curse, showing the seriousness of the command.
The warning is not only about external action but also about the heart’s desire. Some translations render the phrase as “lest ye set your mind upon and take” or “so that you do not covet them.” This shows that the command tested the people’s obedience and faith, requiring them to trust God’s instructions completely.
The verse emphasizes corporate responsibility. One person’s sin could bring trouble and calamity upon the entire camp of Israel. This is why Joshua says, “make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it.” The community suffered because of one individual’s disobedience.
Biblical connections
The New Testament account of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 illustrates the same principle. They kept back part of the proceeds from selling property and lied about it, bringing judgment on themselves and fear on the whole church. This shows that what is set apart for God must not be misused for personal gain, and that corporate holiness matters.
Application
Obedience: Reflect on areas of your life where you may be tempted to compromise God’s commands. Commit to obeying Him wholeheartedly, even in challenging situations.
Trust: Trust in God’s provision and His faithfulness to meet your needs. Cultivate a mindset of contentment and gratitude, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with Him rather than material possessions.
Holiness: Examine your life for any “accursed things” that may hinder your spiritual growth or compromise your relationship with God. Seek His forgiveness and cleansing, and make a deliberate effort to pursue holiness and separate yourself from sin.
Accountability: Recognize the impact of your actions not only on your own life but also on the community of believers. Encourage and hold one another accountable to live according to God’s Word.
Reflection
The warning in Joshua 6:18 reminds us that God’s instructions are meant for our good. Disobedience can have serious consequences, not only for individuals but also for the community. The command to keep from the accursed thing teaches us to take sin seriously and to strive for holiness in our lives.
God calls us to trust His provision rather than rely on material possessions. By prohibiting the Israelites from taking the spoils, God was testing their faith and reminding them that He was their ultimate provider. We are similarly called to separate ourselves from sin and the things that are contrary to God’s will, knowing that true fulfillment comes from Him alone.
