This paper explores the manner in which the figure of Joshua is presented as
an ideal military leader in the Bible. In particular, it considers the divine
charges to Joshua as found in the first chapter of that biblical book. The text
is itself a brief homily, and forms a primary source for illustrating the installation
of a new leader in ancient Israel. Within the span of the first nine verses
in the book, there is the presentation of a need for leadership, of a God-given
vision for the leader, and of a source of empowerment that provides the basis
for the leader's effectiveness. There is also discussion of the greater context
of the chapter and the need for this leader to establish himself as a respected
figure in the social structure of Israel's military establishment. The ancient
historical context and a close literary analysis of the text provide a basis
to understand how this passage addresses questions of delegation, organization,
communication, and loyalty as they relate to leadership.
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