Joshua 10

16–21 Verse 16 continues the account of the fighting on that “long day.” Because of the extra daylight, the Israelites were able to destroy the enemy completely—almost to a man (verse 20). Notice how God, who already has given the enemy into our hands, still expects us to “pursue” and “attack” (verse 19). God calls for our greatest effort—our fullest cooperation—in accomplishing His purposes.

22–28 In accordance with ancient custom, and also to boost the morale of his troops, Joshua had his commanders place their feet on the necks of the five defeated kings (verse 24). Then he executed them and hung them on five trees.⁴⁵ At sunset they were taken down (verse 27) and “buried” in the same cave in which they had attempted to hide (see Joshua 8:28–29 and comment).

That same day, Joshua destroyed the city of Makkedah, which was near the place the cave was located (verse 28). The Israelites totally destroyed⁴⁶ Makkedah and everyone in it. Joshua did to the king of Makkedah as he had done to the king of Jericho—that is, he destroyed him along with his entire city.

Southern Cities Conquered (10:29–43)

29–43 After the great victory over the armies of the five Amorite kings and also over the city of Makkedah (verses 16–28), Joshua and all Israel (his entire army) went on to conquer six more city-states in the southern part of Canaan. As a result of these strategic victories, Joshua subdued the whole region of southern Canaan, including the hill country (the central mountainous region), the Negev (the southern desert region), and the western foothills (the region between the hill country and the coastal plains along the Mediterranean Sea). Joshua and his army totally destroyed all who breathed⁴⁷ (verse 40), just as the LORD . . . had commanded (see Deuteronomy 7:1–2; 20:16–18).

The Israelites did not occupy these cities immediately; instead, they returned to their camp at Gilgal (verse 43). Though southern Canaan was “subdued,” there was still much to be done. Jerusalem, for example, was not captured until after Joshua’s death (Judges 1:8). But Joshua’s victories broke the strength of the Canaanites. And this all happened because the LORD . . . fought for Israel (verse 42).