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 whithersoever thou goest.

JOSHUA 1:9KJV
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Joshua 1:9 (KJV)

What does Joshua 1:9 mean?

Joshua 1:9 is God’s direct encouragement to Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous, not to be afraid or discouraged, because God will be with him wherever he goes. This verse reassures Joshua that he is not alone as he leads the Israelites into the promised land.

God is speaking to Joshua after the death of Moses, as Joshua takes on the responsibility of leading the people of Israel. The situation is tense and uncertain, with Joshua facing a daunting task. God’s words are meant to strengthen Joshua’s resolve and remind him that God’s presence will guide and support him through every challenge ahead.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 1:9

  • "Commanded" (צִוִּיתִיךָ, tsivvitikha) means to give a direct order or instruction. This word shows that God is not just suggesting but firmly instructing Joshua to act with strength and courage.
  • "Strong" (חָזַק, chazaq) carries the sense of being firm or resolute. In this context, it is about having inner strength and determination, not just physical might.
  • "Courage" (אָמַץ, amats) means to be bold or brave. This word emphasizes the need for Joshua to face intimidating situations without shrinking back.
  • "Dismayed" (חָתַת, chatat) means to be shattered or discouraged. God is telling Joshua not to let fear or setbacks break his spirit.

Why Joshua 1:9 matters

  • Joshua 1:9 clarifies that God’s command to be strong and courageous is not based on Joshua’s own abilities, but on God’s ongoing presence and support.
  • The verse highlights that courage and strength are choices Joshua is called to make, even when he feels afraid or overwhelmed.
  • This reassurance connects to the broader theme of Joshua 1, where God repeatedly encourages Joshua, showing how vital God’s presence is for leadership and facing new challenges.

Where else these words appear

“afraid” Hebrew H6206 · used in 15 verses

  • Deuteronomy 1:29 Then I said unto you, Dread not, neither be afraid of them.
  • Job 13:25 Wilt thou break a leaf driven to and fro? and wilt thou pursue the dry stubble?
  • Isaiah 2:21 To go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the LORD, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.

“courage” Hebrew H553 · used in 41 verses

  • Genesis 25:23 And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger.
  • 1 Kings 12:18 Then king Rehoboam sent Adoram, who was over the tribute; and all Israel stoned him with stones, that he died. Therefore king Rehoboam made speed to get him up to his chariot, to flee to Jerusalem.
  • Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.

“dismayed” Hebrew H2865 · used in 48 verses

  • Deuteronomy 1:21 Behold, the LORD thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.
  • Job 32:15 They were amazed, they answered no more: they left off speaking.
  • Jeremiah 17:18 Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let not me be confounded: let them be dismayed, but let not me be dismayed: bring upon them the day of evil, and destroy them with double destruction.