Book of Joshua - Chapter 7 - Verse 3

After suffering a humiliating defeat at Ai, the Israelites returned to Joshua with a new plan of attack. They advised him not to send all the people to battle, but rather to select about two or three thousand men to go up and defeat Ai. The reason given was that there was no need for all the people to labor for a victory over a city that was relatively small in size. This strategy demonstrated the Israelites' desire to learn from their past mistakes and approach the battle with Ai in a more calculated and thoughtful manner. By limiting the number of soldiers sent into battle, the Israelites could focus their efforts more efficiently and increase their chances of success. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic planning and utilizing resources wisely in times of conflict.

In this verse, the Israelites are strategizing on how to defeat the city of Ai. The phrase "let not all the people go up" demonstrates the concern for not sending all the men into battle. The word "labour" in this context refers to the physical effort and toil required in warfare. The commanders advise Joshua to send only two or three thousand men to attack Ai because the city is small and does not require their entire army. This practical approach shows the wisdom and discernment of the Israelite leaders in planning their military strategies. By utilizing a smaller group of soldiers for this mission, they can conserve their resources and minimize the risk to the entire army. This verse highlights the importance of wisdom in decision-making and the value of utilizing resources effectively in times of war. It also serves as a reminder of the significance of seeking guidance and counsel from trusted leaders in times of uncertainty.