Joshua 7:20 (KJV)

What does Joshua 7:20 mean?

Joshua 7:20 records Achan’s confession to Joshua, where Achan openly admits that he has sinned against the LORD God of Israel and begins to explain exactly what he did. This verse marks the moment when Achan takes responsibility for his actions after being confronted.

Achan is speaking directly to Joshua, the leader of Israel, after the Israelites have suffered defeat and Joshua has sought God’s guidance to find the cause. The verse is a turning point in the story, as Achan’s admission reveals the hidden sin that brought trouble on the whole community. The phrase “thus and thus have I done” shows that Achan is about to give a detailed account of his wrongdoing.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 7:20

• “sinned” (חָטָא, ḥāṭā’): This word often means to miss the mark or to do wrong, and here it emphasizes that Achan recognizes his actions as a direct offense against God, not just a mistake or accident.
• “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God used in Israel’s covenant relationship, highlighting that Achan’s sin was not just against the people but against the God who had delivered and guided them.
• “God” (אֱלֹהִים, ’Elohim): This word for God stresses God’s power and authority, reinforcing the seriousness of Achan’s confession.
• “done” (עָשָׂה, ʿāśāh): This verb means to do or make, and here it points to the concrete actions Achan took, not just thoughts or intentions.

Why Joshua 7:20 matters

• Joshua 7:20 clarifies that Achan’s sin was not hidden from God, even though it was concealed from people, showing the seriousness of disobedience in the community.
• The verse highlights the importance of confession and taking responsibility, as Achan does not try to excuse or minimize his actions.
• This confession sets the stage for the resolution of the crisis facing Israel, connecting Achan’s personal actions to the fate of the whole nation and showing the communal impact of individual choices.