4 with these orders: "Listen carefully. You are to set an ambush behind the city. Don't go very far from it. All of you be on the alert.

Other Translations of Joshua 8:4

King James Version

4 And he commanded them, saying, Behold, ye shall lie in wait against the city, even behind the city: go not very far from the city, but be ye all ready:

English Standard Version

4 And he commanded them, "Behold, you shall lie in ambush against the city, behind it. Do not go very far from the city, but all of you remain ready.

The Message

4 with these orders: "Look sharp now. Lie in ambush behind the city. Get as close as you can. Stay alert.

New King James Version

4 And he commanded them, saying: "Behold, you shall lie in ambush against the city, behind the city. Do not go very far from the city, but all of you be ready.

New Living Translation

4 with these orders: "Hide in ambush close behind the town and be ready for action.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Joshua 8:4

Commentary on Joshua 8:3-22

(Read Joshua 8:3-22)

Observe Joshua's conduct and prudence. Those that would maintain their spiritual conflicts must not love their ease. Probably he went into the valley alone, to pray to God for a blessing, and he did not seek in vain. He never drew back till the work was done. Those that have stretched out their hands against their spiritual enemies, must never draw them back.