And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the LORD do to all your enemies against whom ye fight.

JOSHUA 10:25KJV
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Joshua 10:25 (KJV)

What does Joshua 10:25 mean?

Joshua 10:25 records Joshua telling his commanders not to be afraid or discouraged, but to be strong and courageous, because the LORD will treat all their enemies the same way as those they have just defeated. Joshua is encouraging his men after a victory, assuring them that God will continue to give them success against their foes.

Joshua is speaking to the Israelite leaders after they have captured and subdued several enemy kings during their conquest of Canaan. The verse highlights Joshua’s role as a leader who reassures his people, reminding them that their victories come from the LORD (יהוה, Yahweh), and that the same divine help will be with them in future battles.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 10:25

  • "Fear" (יָרֵא, yare): This word often means to be afraid or terrified. Joshua is telling his commanders not to let fear control them, even in the face of powerful enemies.
  • "Dismayed" (חָתַת, chathath): This word carries the idea of being shattered or discouraged. Joshua is urging his men not to lose heart or become overwhelmed by the challenges ahead.
  • "Be strong" (חָזַק, chazaq) and "of good courage" (אָמַץ, amats): These two words together emphasize inner strength and determination. Joshua is calling his commanders to stand firm and be resolute, not just physically but also in spirit.
  • "LORD" (יהוה, Yahweh): The use of God’s personal name underlines that it is Israel’s covenant God who is fighting for them, not just a generic deity.

Why Joshua 10:25 matters

  • Joshua 10:25 clarifies that the source of Israel’s courage and success is not their own strength, but the LORD’s intervention on their behalf.
  • The verse connects to the wider theme in Joshua of God fulfilling His promises to Israel, showing that victory is assured when they trust and obey Him.
  • Joshua’s words echo earlier encouragements from God to Joshua himself (Joshua 1:6–9), showing that the encouragement Joshua received is now being passed on to others.

Where else these words appear

“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.