Book of Joshua - Chapter 10 - Verse 37

The verse describes a brutal and destructive act of war, in which the inhabitants of a city were completely wiped out by the Israelites. The phrase "smote it with the edge of the sword" indicates a violent attack, where the Israelites used their weapons to kill all the people in the city, including the king and all the residents. The phrase "destroyed it utterly" emphasizes the thoroughness of the destruction, leaving nothing and no one alive. This passage reflects the harsh realities of warfare in ancient times, where conquest often involved the total annihilation of enemy cities and populations. It also highlights the ruthless nature of the Israelites' military tactics, as they sought to completely eliminate any perceived threat to their own security and dominance in the region. This verse serves as a grim reminder of the destructive power of war and the cost of violence in human history.

This verse from the book of Judges narrates a violent episode where the Israelites conquer a city in Canaan and kill all its inhabitants, including the king. The theological interpretation of this verse raises questions about the morality of such actions in the name of God. Some scholars argue that this Old Testament narrative reflects the ancient Israelites' understanding of God's will as a mandate to destroy their enemies completely. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands, as seen in the fate of King Eglon and the city. This story can be interpreted as a lesson about the importance of following God's word, even when it involves difficult and harsh actions. Word studies on terms like "smote" and "destroyed utterly" provide insight into the severity and finality of the Israelites' conquest, emphasizing the totality of their victory over their enemies. Overall, this verse showcases the complexities of biblical interpretation and the importance of examining scripture in its historical and cultural context.