Joshua
Pronounced JOSH-oo-uh
- Meaning
- "The LORD is salvation"
- Origin
- Hebrew
Joshua means "The LORD is salvation" in Hebrew — the same root from which the name Jesus (Yeshua) is derived. Joshua was Moses' faithful assistant who became the leader who brought Israel into the Promised Land. Joshua's military leadership was guided entirely by faith. The conquest of Jericho — where the walls fell after Israel marched around the city for seven days — demonstrated that victory comes from obedience to God, not military strategy. His command, "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15), remains one of the most quoted declarations in Scripture. Joshua's life is a type (foreshadowing) of Christ. Just as Joshua led Israel into the earthly Promised Land, Jesus leads believers into eternal life. The connection between their names makes this typology especially powerful.
Spiritual meaning
Joshua's name is a proclamation that salvation belongs to the LORD. His life of courageous faith reminds us that God goes before us into every battle and that victory is assured when we follow His commands.
Related verses (KJV)
"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."
Joshua 1:9 (KJV)
"Choose you this day whom ye will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
Joshua 24:15 (KJV)