We see here that the Israelites wholeheartedly declare they will remain faithful to the God who has delivered them, establishing a firm rejection of idolatry.
In Joshua 24, the nation of Israel gathers at Shechem, an ancient city in the hill country west of the Jordan River. Shechem held deep historical significance for the Israelites, as it was there that they “buried the bones of Joseph, which the sons of Israel brought up from Egypt” (Joshua 24:32). Located near the region known as the Arabah and beside the oaks of Moreh, Shechem was a central place of covenant renewal, reminding the people of God’s faithfulness and calling them to recommit themselves to their Suzerain LORD. Joshua, advanced in years (around the late 14th century B.C.), summoned the people to remember all that God had done and to cast aside all foreign gods.
In response to Joshua’s charge, the Israelites proclaim: “Far be it from us that we should forsake the LORD to serve other gods;” (v.16). By uttering these words, the gathered assembly declares their desire to remain loyal to God and stand firmly by the covenant that He had instituted with them through Moses. Their exclamation underscores a direct repudiation of idolatry and a decisive commitment to the LORD above all else. This moment marks a significant collective statement of belief and repentance, where the people affirm their dependency on the LORD’s protection and reject any competing allegiances that might draw them astray.
The essence of Joshua 24:16 also foreshadows many future moments in Israel’s history when the people would be tempted by neighboring deities. This verse puts forth a clear choice: to forsake the LORD or to keep Him at the center of their worship. The people’s answer—“Far be it from us!”—demonstrates an awareness that blessing and life are found only in the covenant relationship with their God. Centuries later, Jesus calls people to a similar decision, asking them to turn away from all else and find life in wholly following Him (John 14:6).
Set to dark mode
Joshua 24:16 meaning
In Joshua 24, the nation of Israel gathers at Shechem, an ancient city in the hill country west of the Jordan River. Shechem held deep historical significance for the Israelites, as it was there that they “buried the bones of Joseph, which the sons of Israel brought up from Egypt” (Joshua 24:32). Located near the region known as the Arabah and beside the oaks of Moreh, Shechem was a central place of covenant renewal, reminding the people of God’s faithfulness and calling them to recommit themselves to their Suzerain LORD. Joshua, advanced in years (around the late 14th century B.C.), summoned the people to remember all that God had done and to cast aside all foreign gods.
In response to Joshua’s charge, the Israelites proclaim: “Far be it from us that we should forsake the LORD to serve other gods;” (v.16). By uttering these words, the gathered assembly declares their desire to remain loyal to God and stand firmly by the covenant that He had instituted with them through Moses. Their exclamation underscores a direct repudiation of idolatry and a decisive commitment to the LORD above all else. This moment marks a significant collective statement of belief and repentance, where the people affirm their dependency on the LORD’s protection and reject any competing allegiances that might draw them astray.
The essence of Joshua 24:16 also foreshadows many future moments in Israel’s history when the people would be tempted by neighboring deities. This verse puts forth a clear choice: to forsake the LORD or to keep Him at the center of their worship. The people’s answer—“Far be it from us!”—demonstrates an awareness that blessing and life are found only in the covenant relationship with their God. Centuries later, Jesus calls people to a similar decision, asking them to turn away from all else and find life in wholly following Him (John 14:6).