And the ambush arose quickly out of their place, and they ran as soon as he had stretched out his hand: and they entered into the city, and took it, and hasted and set the city on fire.
The soldiers hiding in ambush quickly jumped up from their hiding place and ran forward as soon as Joshua stretched out his hand. They rushed into the city, captured it, and immediately set it on fire.
This verse describes the moment when Joshua's hidden soldiers received his signal and successfully carried out their surprise attack on the city of Ai.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Joshua, the Israelites were conquering the Promised Land under God's direction after their exodus from Egypt, and they faced a second battle at Ai following a previous defeat caused by sin in their camp. Joshua devised a strategic ambush as instructed by God, with his main forces pretending to flee to lure the enemy out, allowing the hidden troops to attack and seize the city. This event fulfilled God's promise to give the land to Israel, demonstrating His faithfulness despite human failures.
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