Joshua 10:18
Joshua 10:18 in Multiple Translations
So Joshua said, “Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave, and post men there to guard them.
And Joshua said, Roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave, and set men by it for to keep them:
And Joshua said, Roll great stones unto the mouth of the cave, and set men by it to keep them:
And Joshua said, Let great stones be rolled against the mouth of the hole, and let men keep watch by it:
he gave this order, “Roll some large stones to block the entrance to the cave and have some men guard it.
Then Ioshua said, Roule great stones vpon the mouth of the caue, and set men by it for to keepe them.
And Joshua saith, 'Roll great stones unto the mouth of the cave, and appoint over it men to watch them;
Joshua said, “Roll large stones to cover the cave’s entrance, and set men by it to guard them;
And Joshua said, Roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave, and set men by it to keep them:
And he commanded them that were with him, saying: Roll great stones to the mouth of the cave, and set careful men, to keep them shut up:
When Joshua heard that, he said, “Roll some very large rocks to the entrance of the cave so that the kings cannot escape, and leave some soldiers there to guard it.
Berean Amplified Bible — Joshua 10:18
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Joshua 10:18 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
יְהוֹשֻׁ֔עַ
גֹּ֛לּוּ
אֲבָנִ֥ים
גְּדֹל֖וֹת
אֶל
פִּ֣י
הַ/מְּעָרָ֑ה
וְ/הַפְקִ֧ידוּ
עָלֶ֛י/הָ
אֲנָשִׁ֖ים
לְ/שָׁמְרָֽ/ם
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יְהוֹשֻׁ֔עַ
Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ
H3091
Joshua
N-proper
גֹּ֛לּוּ
gâlal
H1556
to roll
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
אֲבָנִ֥ים
ʼeben
H68
stone
N-fp
גְּדֹל֖וֹת
gâdôwl
H1419
Great (Sea)
Adj
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
פִּ֣י
peh
H6310
lip
N-ms
הַ/מְּעָרָ֑ה
mᵉʻârâh
H4631
cave
Art | N-fs
וְ/הַפְקִ֧ידוּ
pâqad
H6485
to reckon
Conj | V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp
עָלֶ֛י/הָ
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
אֲנָשִׁ֖ים
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-mp
לְ/שָׁמְרָֽ/ם
shâmar
H8104
to keep
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
Use ← → arrow keys to navigate between words.
Hebrew Word Reference — Joshua 10:18
וַ/יֹּ֣אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
יְהוֹשֻׁ֔עַ
Yᵉhôwshûwaʻ
H3091
"Joshua"
N-proper
Joshua was a leader in the Bible, first mentioned in Ezra 2:2, who helped the Israelites return from exile. His name means Jehovah is salvation, and he is also known as Jeshua in some parts of the Bible. He was a key figure in the conquest of Canaan.
Definition: A man of the tribe of Levi living at the time of Exile and Return, first mentioned at Ezr.2.2; son of: Jehozadak (H3087); father of: Joiakim (H3113); also called Jeshua at Ezr.2.2; 3.2,8; 4.3; 5.2; 1x12.1,7,10,26; § Joshua or Jehoshua = "Jehovah is salvation" 1) son of Nun of the tribe of Ephraim and successor to Moses as the leader of the children of Israel; led the conquest of Canaan 2) a resident of Beth-shemesh on whose land the Ark of the Covenant came to a stop after the Philistines returned it 3) son of Jehozadak and high priest after the restoration 4) governor of Jerusalem under king Josiah who gave his name to a gate of the city of Jerusalem
Usage: Occurs in 199 OT verses. KJV: Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, Joshua. Compare H1954 (הוֹשֵׁעַ), H3442 (יֵשׁוּעַ). See also: Exodus 17:9; Joshua 9:15; Zechariah 6:11.
גֹּ֛לּוּ
gâlal
H1556
"to roll"
V-Qal-Impv-2mp
The Hebrew word 'to roll' means to move something in a rolling motion, and it can be used literally or figuratively. It appears in various forms, such as rolling away or rolling down, and is used in different contexts throughout the Bible. This verb can also mean to flow down or to seek occasion.
Definition: 1) to roll, roll away, roll down, roll together 1a) (Qal) to roll 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to roll up 1b2) to flow down 1c) (Pilpel) to roll 1d) (Poal) to be rolled 1e) (Hithpoel) to roll oneself 1f) (Hithpalpel) to roll oneself 1g) (Hiphil) to roll away Aramaic equivalent: ge.lal (גְּלָל "great" H1560)
Usage: Occurs in 18 OT verses. KJV: commit, remove, roll (away, down, together), run down, seek occasion, trust, wallow. See also: Genesis 29:3; Psalms 22:9; Psalms 37:5.
אֲבָנִ֥ים
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
N-fp
In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.
Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.
גְּדֹל֖וֹת
gâdôwl
H1419
"Great (Sea)"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.
Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)
Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
פִּ֣י
peh
H6310
"lip"
N-ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word refers to the mouth, lips, or edge of something, and can also mean a portion or side of something. It is often used to describe speech or the act of speaking. This word appears in various forms, such as mouth, lip, or edge.
Definition: : lip/mouth peh 1) mouth 1a) mouth (of man) 1b) mouth (as organ of speech) 1c) mouth (of animals) 1d) mouth, opening, orifice (of a well, river, etc) 1e) extremity, end pim 2) a weight equal to one third of a shekel, occurs only in 1Sa 13:21
Usage: Occurs in 460 OT verses. KJV: accord(-ing as, -ing to), after, appointment, assent, collar, command(-ment), [idiom] eat, edge, end, entry, [phrase] file, hole, [idiom] in, mind, mouth, part, portion, [idiom] (should) say(-ing), sentence, skirt, sound, speech, [idiom] spoken, talk, tenor, [idiom] to, [phrase] two-edged, wish, word. See also: Genesis 4:11; Deuteronomy 21:17; Ezra 9:11.
הַ/מְּעָרָ֑ה
mᵉʻârâh
H4631
"cave"
Art | N-fs
The Hebrew word for a cave or den, often used to describe a dark or hidden place. It can also refer to a hole or a hollowed-out space. In the Bible, it is used to describe natural landscapes and places of refuge or hiding.
Definition: cave, den, hole
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: cave, den, hole. See also: Genesis 19:30; 1 Samuel 13:6; Psalms 57:1.
וְ/הַפְקִ֧ידוּ
pâqad
H6485
"to reckon"
Conj | V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp
This word means to visit or oversee, and can imply a range of actions, from friendly to hostile. It is used in various contexts, including appointing, avenging, or delivering something into someone's care. The KJV translates it in many ways, including appoint, avenge, or commit.
Definition: : list/count 1) to attend to, muster, number, reckon, visit, punish, appoint, look after, care for 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pay attention to, observe 1a2) to attend to 1a3) to seek, look about for 1a4) to seek in vain, need, miss, lack 1a5) to visit 1a6) to visit upon, punish 1a7) to pass in review, muster, number 1a8) to appoint, assign, lay upon as a charge, deposit 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sought, be needed, be missed, be lacking 1b2) to be visited 1b3) to be visited upon 1b4) to be appointed 1b5) to be watched over 1c) (Piel) to muster, call up 1d) (Pual) to be passed in review, be caused to miss, be called, be called to account 1e) (Hiphil) 1e1) to set over, make overseer, appoint an overseer 1e2) to commit, entrust, commit for care, deposit 1f) (Hophal) 1f1) to be visited 1f2) to be deposited 1f3) to be made overseer, be entrusted 1g) (Hithpael) numbered 1h) (Hothpael) numbered
Usage: Occurs in 269 OT verses. KJV: appoint, [idiom] at all, avenge, bestow, (appoint to have the, give a) charge, commit, count, deliver to keep, be empty, enjoin, go see, hurt, do judgment, lack, lay up, look, make, [idiom] by any means, miss, number, officer, (make) overseer, have (the) oversight, punish, reckon, (call to) remember(-brance), set (over), sum, [idiom] surely, visit, want. See also: Genesis 21:1; Numbers 26:47; Psalms 8:5.
עָלֶ֛י/הָ
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
אֲנָשִׁ֖ים
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-mp
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
לְ/שָׁמְרָֽ/ם
shâmar
H8104
"to keep"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a | Suff
To keep or obey means to protect, attend to, or guard something, like keeping a promise or watching over someone, as seen in the commands to observe the Sabbath.
Definition: : obey/observe 1) to keep, guard, observe, give heed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to keep, have charge of 1a2) to keep, guard, keep watch and ward, protect, save life 1a2a) watch, watchman (participle) 1a3) to watch for, wait for 1a4) to watch, observe 1a5) to keep, retain, treasure up (in memory) 1a6) to keep (within bounds), restrain 1a7) to observe, celebrate, keep (sabbath or covenant or commands), perform (vow) 1a8) to keep, preserve, protect 1a9) to keep, reserve 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be on one's guard, take heed, take care, beware 1b2) to keep oneself, refrain, abstain 1b3) to be kept, be guarded 1c) (Piel) to keep, pay heed 1d) (Hithpael) to keep oneself from
Usage: Occurs in 440 OT verses. KJV: beward, be circumspect, take heed (to self), keep(-er, self), mark, look narrowly, observe, preserve, regard, reserve, save (self), sure, (that lay) wait (for), watch(-man). See also: Genesis 2:15; Deuteronomy 11:1; 1 Kings 14:8.
Study Notes — Joshua 10:18
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — The Victory at Makkedah
16Now the five kings had fled and hidden in the cave at Makkedah.
17And Joshua was informed: “The five kings have been found; they are hiding in the cave at Makkedah.”
18So Joshua said, “Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave, and post men there to guard them.
19But you, do not stop there. Pursue your enemies and attack them from behind. Do not let them reach their cities, for the LORD your God has delivered them into your hand.” 20So Joshua and the Israelites continued to inflict a terrible slaughter until they had finished them off, and the remaining survivors retreated to the fortified cities.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 27:66 | So they went and secured the tomb by sealing the stone and posting the guard. |
| 2 | Job 21:30 | Indeed, the evil man is spared from the day of calamity, delivered from the day of wrath. |
| 3 | Amos 9:1 | I saw the Lord standing beside the altar, and He said: “Strike the tops of the pillars so that the thresholds shake. Topple them on the heads of all the people, and I will kill the rest with the sword. None of those who flee will get away; none of the fugitives will escape. |
| 4 | Joshua 10:22 | Then Joshua said, “Open the mouth of the cave and bring those five kings out to me.” |
| 5 | Amos 5:19 | It will be like a man who flees from a lion, only to encounter a bear, or who enters his house and rests his hand against the wall, only to be bitten by a snake. |
| 6 | Judges 9:46–49 | On hearing of this, all the leaders in the tower of Shechem entered the inner chamber of the temple of El-berith. And when Abimelech was told that all the leaders in the tower of Shechem were gathered there, he and all his men went up to Mount Zalmon. Abimelech took his axe in his hand and cut a branch from the trees, which he lifted to his shoulder, saying to his men, “Hurry and do what you have seen me do.” So each man also cut his own branch and followed Abimelech. Then they piled the branches against the inner chamber and set it on fire above them, killing everyone in the tower of Shechem, about a thousand men and women. |
Joshua 10:18 Summary
In Joshua 10:18, Joshua gives the order to roll large stones against the mouth of the cave where the five kings are hiding, and to post men to guard them. This was a practical and strategic move to prevent the kings from escaping and to ensure the Israelites' victory. In simple terms, Joshua is taking action to secure the victory that God has already given them, as seen in Deuteronomy 20:4. This verse reminds us that, just like the Israelites, we can trust in God's power and provision, and take bold action in obedience to Him, as encouraged in Joshua 1:9 and Romans 8:37.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Joshua order the large stones to be rolled against the mouth of the cave?
Joshua ordered the large stones to be rolled against the mouth of the cave to trap the five kings inside, ensuring they could not escape, as seen in Joshua 10:18. This was a strategic move to prevent them from regrouping and counterattacking.
What can we learn from Joshua's decision to post men to guard the cave?
Joshua's decision to post men to guard the cave teaches us about the importance of follow-through and ensuring the completion of a task, as seen in Joshua 10:18. This is reminiscent of Jesus' teaching in Luke 9:62, where He says that no one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.
How does this verse relate to the broader context of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan?
This verse is part of the larger narrative of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan, as described in the book of Joshua. The Israelites' victory over the five kings, as seen in Joshua 10:16-20, demonstrates God's faithfulness to His people and His power to overcome even the most formidable enemies, as promised in Deuteronomy 31:6.
What spiritual application can we derive from Joshua's actions in this verse?
Joshua's actions in this verse can be seen as a spiritual metaphor for our own lives, as we are called to trust in God's power and provision, just as the Israelites did, and to take bold action in obedience to Him, as seen in Joshua 1:9 and Romans 8:37.
Reflection Questions
- What are some 'caves' in my life where I may be hiding from God or others, and how can I surrender them to Him?
- In what ways can I, like Joshua, demonstrate faith and trust in God's power and provision in my own life and circumstances?
- How can I ensure that I am 'posting guards' in my own life, protecting myself from the enemy's attacks and temptations, and standing firm in my faith, as encouraged in Ephesians 6:10-18?
- What are some large 'stones' that I need to roll into place in my life, in order to prevent the enemy from gaining a foothold or to protect myself from harm?
Gill's Exposition on Joshua 10:18
And Joshua said, roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave,.... To keep the kings in, that they might not make their escape, until he had convenient time to have them brought before him, and be
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Joshua 10:18
And it was told Joshua, saying, The five kings are found hid in a cave at Makkedah. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Trapp's Commentary on Joshua 10:18
Joshua 10:18 And Joshua said, Roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave, and set men by it for to keep them:Ver. 18. Roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave.] Where now, as in a trap, the mice might well gnaw, but get out they could not.
Cambridge Bible on Joshua 10:18
18. And Joshua said] The victory was not yet won. The conqueror would not be diverted from his object. The mouth of the cave was blocked with huge stones, and armed men were stationed to guard it, while the pursuit was still continued.
Whedon's Commentary on Joshua 10:18
18. Roll great stones — The cave when thus barricaded would require but a small guard. The rest of the men could be employed in the pursuit.
Sermons on Joshua 10:18
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Amos 9 by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his 14-month journey through different nations, carrying only what he could on his back. He emphasizes the diversity of people he encountere |
|
|
K-448 Israel's Future Expulsion by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the insignificance of our worldly accomplishments and knowledge in the eyes of God. He describes a terrifying wilderness where one is strippe |
|
God's Omnipotence - Part 1 by Richard Owen Roberts | In this sermon, the preacher explores the concept of God's omnipresence and authority over all places. He emphasizes that while we are accustomed to things having their rightful pl |
|
Bible Survey - Amos by Peter Hammond | Peter Hammond preaches on the prophet Amos, a humble and bold shepherd who fearlessly proclaimed God's truth to the Northern tribes of Israel during a time of peace and prosperity. |
|
(Elijah Legacy) 1. Days of Elijah by David Davis | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of government-endorsed idolatry in various countries, including Israel, America, and the Philippines. He highlights the abortion epi |