Joshua 8:35 – There was not a word of all that Moses had commanded that Joshua did not read to the whole assembly of Israel, including the women and children, and the foreigners who lived among them.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Joshua 8:35 emphasizes that Joshua faithfully read every word of the law given by Moses to the entire assembly of Israel, ensuring that no one was excluded. This included not just the men but also the women, children, and even the foreigners living among them. This act of reading the law was a powerful way of reaffirming the nation’s commitment to God’s commands. Joshua’s complete reading of the law underscored the importance of every part of God’s Word, showing that none of it was to be overlooked or ignored. By involving everyone, Joshua made it clear that God’s law applied to all, regardless of age, gender, or background, and that everyone had a role in upholding the covenant.
Historical Context
This event took place during a covenant renewal ceremony on Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, following the Israelites’ victories over Jericho and Ai. Moses had instructed the Israelites to hold this ceremony when they entered the Promised Land, to remind them of God’s commands and the blessings and curses associated with obedience and disobedience (Deuteronomy 27-28). Joshua, as Moses’ successor, fulfilled this command by gathering the people and reading the law aloud. This was an essential moment for the Israelites as they settled into the land God had promised, reminding them that their success and prosperity depended on their faithfulness to God’s Word.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Joshua 8:35 highlights the inclusiveness and accessibility of God’s Word. The fact that Joshua read the entire law to everyone present, including women, children, and foreigners, shows that God’s commands are meant for all people. It teaches that no one is too young, too old, or too different to be included in God’s plan. This verse also emphasizes the importance of hearing and understanding God’s Word as a community, reinforcing the idea that living according to God’s commands is a shared responsibility. The complete reading of the law demonstrates that every part of God’s Word is important and relevant, not just selected portions.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses inclusive language to stress the completeness of Joshua’s actions. The phrase “not a word of all that Moses had commanded” emphasizes the thoroughness of Joshua’s reading, showing that every part of the law was given attention. The inclusion of “the whole assembly of Israel, including the women and children, and the foreigners” highlights the broad reach of God’s commands, reflecting that His Word is not limited to any single group. This literary approach reinforces the communal nature of faith and the importance of making God’s Word accessible to all.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 31:12-13: “Assemble the people—men, women and children, and the foreigners residing in your towns—so they can listen and learn to fear the Lord your God and follow carefully all the words of this law.” This passage shows Moses’ command to gather everyone to hear the law, mirroring what Joshua fulfilled.
- Nehemiah 8:2-3: “So on the first day of the seventh month, Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, which was made up of men and women and all who were able to understand.” This reflects another moment of communal reading of the law, emphasizing the importance of hearing God’s Word together.
- Psalm 119:160: “All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal.” This underscores the completeness and enduring relevance of God’s commands.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Joshua 8:35 serves as a reminder that God’s Word is meant for everyone, and all of it is important. It teaches that the Bible is not just for scholars or certain groups; it is for all people, including children, families, and those from different backgrounds. This verse encourages believers to engage with the entire Bible, not just parts that are familiar or comfortable. It challenges us to create spaces where everyone can hear, learn, and understand God’s Word, reinforcing the idea that the message of the Bible is for the whole community. Joshua’s example shows that making God’s Word accessible and understandable is a vital part of spiritual leadership.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love by showing His desire to include everyone in His plans and to make His Word accessible to all. God’s command to have the law read aloud to the whole assembly demonstrates His commitment to ensuring that no one is left out or overlooked. God’s love is seen in His desire for all people to hear and understand His Word, guiding them toward a life that is blessed and aligned with His will. By including women, children, and foreigners, this passage highlights that God values every person and wants each one to be part of His community.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Joshua 8:35 connects to Jesus Christ by pointing to the inclusive nature of God’s message and the importance of making His Word accessible to all. Jesus embodied this inclusiveness in His ministry, welcoming people from all walks of life, teaching both the learned and the ordinary, and reaching out to those on the margins. Christ’s teachings and parables were often spoken to large crowds, reflecting the same principle of making God’s Word understandable and available to everyone. Through Jesus, we see the fulfillment of God’s desire to communicate His love and truth to all people, inviting everyone into a relationship with Him.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you make God’s Word accessible and relevant to everyone in your community, including those who might feel excluded or overlooked?
- What steps can you take to ensure that you are engaging with the whole of God’s Word, not just the parts that are familiar or comfortable?
- How does this verse challenge you to see the importance of including all people, regardless of age or background, in the study of the Bible?
- In what ways can you rely on Jesus’ example of making God’s truth accessible to everyone, and how can you apply that in your life and community?