Joshua

• DatesConquest about 1406–1390 BC on the early date; about 1230–1200 BC on the late date (debated)
• GenreHistory
• AuthorshipAnonymous; traditionally Joshua with later editing
• TimelineConquest & Judges
• Key textsJoshua 1; Joshua 6; Joshua 11; Joshua 24
• Read the textJoshua in the World English Bible
• Covered in classSession 2, Session 6

What the sources say, and how sure we are

• The text says

  Joshua is said to have written “these words in the Book of the Law of God.” The book repeatedly says things remain “to this day,” which points to later writing or editing.Josh 24:26; Josh 4:9; Josh 15:63

• Outside evidence

  Excavations at Jericho (Tell es-Sultan) give conflicting results. Kenyon dated its destruction to about 1550 BC, Bryant Wood argues for about 1400 BC, and others find little occupation in the period.Josh 6

• Outside evidence

  Hazor was burned in a major destruction in the 13th century BC. Late-date supporters link it with Joshua 11. Early-date supporters point to other causes, such as Judges 4.Josh 11:10–13; Judg 4

• Debated

  The size, speed, and dating of the conquest are disputed. The book describes decisive victories, while Judges 1 describes much land left unconquered.Josh 11:23; Judg 1

• Christian conclusion

  The letter to the Hebrews says that Joshua did not give Israel the final rest, which remains for the people of God.Heb 4:8–9