Definition: For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear [of it], and shall environ us round, and cut off our name from the earth: and what wilt thou do unto thy great name?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 7:9. It's a really powerful and dramatic passage about a devastating event in ancient Israel’s history. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: During the time of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan (modern-day Israel and Palestine), the Canaanites – a diverse group of people living there – started building a massive temple complex dedicated to their gods. They were so focused on worshipping these gods that they began to encircle the land, essentially surrounding it completely with their structures. What Joshua Says: Joshua is telling God, “We’ve made a terrible mistake! The Canaanites are creating a huge, oppressive presence – they're building this massive temple and surrounding everything with it! They're trying to control us and our land.” The Crucial Part: "And what wilt thou do unto thy great name?" This is the core of the verse. Joshua is asking God, “What will you do with the name of God? What will you do with something so powerful, so revered, and so important to us?” It’s a plea for divine judgment. Putting it Together – A Simple Explanation: God is essentially saying that this massive, deliberate act of surrounding and controlling the land is an offense against His power and holiness. It's a violation of God’s will and a challenge to his authority. The Significance & Context: A Symbolic Representation: This verse is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of idolatry – worshipping false gods instead of one true God. Divine Punishment: It foreshadowed a significant period of exile for the Israelites, where they were forced to leave Canaan and wander in shame. It’s a clear warning against seeking power and worship over God. God's Sovereignty: It highlights God’s absolute control and judgment over his people and their land. In short, Joshua is pleading with God to punish the Canaanites for their disrespectful act, demonstrating that true worship involves reverence and obedience to Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Discuss the historical context of this event? Explore why this passage is important in biblical interpretation?