But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

JOSHUA 22:5KJV
Know the Bible

Joshua 22:5 (KJV)

What does Joshua 22:5 mean?

Joshua 22:5 urges the people to be very careful to follow the commands and teachings given by Moses, especially to love and serve the LORD God wholeheartedly and faithfully. The verse lists several ways to stay devoted: loving God, walking in His ways, keeping His commands, holding tightly to Him, and serving Him with all their heart and soul.

Joshua is speaking to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh as they prepare to return to their land east of the Jordan River. He reminds them that their relationship with God is not just about rules but about a deep, loyal commitment shown through love, obedience, and service. This moment comes after these tribes have helped the rest of Israel settle in the promised land, and Joshua wants to ensure they remain faithful even when separated from the main community.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 22:5

  • The word "diligent" (מְאֹד, me'od) means "very" or "exceedingly," stressing the importance of being especially careful and intentional in following God's instructions.
  • "Cleave" (דָּבַק, davaq) means to cling or stick closely, suggesting a strong, personal attachment to God, not just outward obedience.
  • "Serve" (עָבַד, avad) is often used for both worship and work, showing that serving God involves both attitude and action, not just ritual or duty.
  • "Heart" (לֵבָב, levav) and "soul" (נֶפֶשׁ, nefesh) together emphasize a total, inner commitment—every part of a person's being is involved in loving and serving God.

Why Joshua 22:5 matters

  • Joshua 22:5 clarifies that faithfulness to God is not just about following rules but about a whole-person devotion—emotionally, spiritually, and practically.
  • The verse highlights that even when separated from the main group, the eastern tribes are expected to maintain the same commitment to God, showing that faith is not limited by geography or circumstance.
  • This instruction connects to the larger story of Israel’s covenant with God, reminding the people that their success and unity depend on their ongoing loyalty and love for Him.

Where else these words appear

“cleave” Hebrew H1692 · used in 52 verses

  • Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
  • Judges 20:45 And they turned and fled toward the wilderness unto the rock of Rimmon: and they gleaned of them in the highways five thousand men; and pursued hard after them unto Gidom, and slew two thousand men of them.
  • Job 31:7 If my step hath turned out of the way, and mine heart walked after mine eyes, and if any blot hath cleaved to mine hands;