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Book of Joshua - Chapter 7 - Verse 15

7:15
And it shall be, that he that is taken with the accursed thing shall be burnt with fire, he and all that he hath: because he hath transgressed the covenant of the LORD, and because he hath wrought folly in Israel.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Joshua in the Bible speaks about the consequences of disobeying the covenant of the Lord. The verse states that anyone who is found with the accursed thing will be burnt with fire, along with all of their possessions. This harsh punishment is a reflection of the seriousness of transgressing the covenant of the Lord and bringing folly into Israel. In the context of the story, the accursed thing refers to items taken from the city of Jericho, which was forbidden according to God's command. The severity of the punishment serves as a warning to the Israelites to follow God's commands and to avoid bringing sin and disobedience into their community. This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience and loyalty to the covenant of the Lord, as well as the consequences of straying from His path.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of this verse from Joshua 7:15 is that it serves as a warning about the consequences of disobedience and sin within the community of Israel. The phrase "accursed thing" refers to the item that Achan had taken from Jericho contrary to God's instructions, leading to his and his family's punishment. The act of burning with fire was a common method of punishment in ancient Israel, and it symbolizes the severity of the transgression. The verse highlights the importance of upholding the covenant with the Lord and the consequences of failing to do so. The word "folly" in this context may refer to the foolishness and lack of wisdom displayed by Achan in disobeying God's explicit command. Through this harsh punishment, God emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the need for obedience to His commands. This interpretation reinforces the idea of the covenant as a sacred bond between God and His people, demanding faithfulness and integrity.

American Standard Version

And it shall be, that he that is taken with the devoted thing shall be burnt with fire, he and all that he hath; because he hath transgressed the covenant of Jehovah, and because he hath wrought folly in Israel.
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