Joshua 24:29 (KJV)

What does Joshua 24:29 mean?

Joshua 24:29 records the death of Joshua, describing him as the son of Nun and the servant of the LORD, at the age of 110. This verse marks the end of Joshua’s leadership over Israel after they entered and settled in the promised land.

The verse comes at the close of the book of Joshua, after Joshua has gathered the tribes of Israel, reminded them of God’s faithfulness, and renewed the covenant at Shechem. By calling Joshua the “servant of the LORD,” the text honors his faithful role, similar to how Moses was described, and signals a major transition in Israel’s history.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 24:29

• עֶבֶד (`eved, “servant”): The word used for “servant” here is the same term used for Moses, highlighting Joshua’s trusted position as God’s representative.
• יְהוָה (YHWH, “the LORD”): The specific name for Israel’s God, emphasizing that Joshua served not just any god, but the covenant God of Israel.
• מֵאָה (me’ah, “hundred”) and עֶשֶׂר (eser, “ten”): The age “a hundred and ten years” is notable, as it matches the age of Joseph when he died, possibly suggesting a sense of completion or fulfillment.

Why Joshua 24:29 matters

• This verse clarifies that Joshua’s leadership was seen as a direct continuation of Moses’ service to God, not just a political or military role.
• By recording Joshua’s age and title, the verse connects his life to earlier figures in Israel’s story, showing continuity in God’s guidance.
• The verse sets the stage for the transition to a new era in Israel’s history, where leadership shifts from a single, divinely appointed leader to the period of the judges.