Historical context of Joshua

Who wrote Joshua, when, and to whom — and how that shapes the way we read it today.

Author

Joshua (with later additions)

Date written

c. 1400 BC

Original audience

Israel in the land.

Genre

History

Testament

Old Testament

Chapters

24

Background and setting

Set in the late 15th century BC as Israel transitions from wilderness to settlement.

Why it matters today

Understanding the world Joshua was written into helps us read it on its own terms — and apply it faithfully to our lives now. God spoke through real people, in real history, for the lasting good of His people in every generation.

Read the overview of Joshua or jump into chapter 1.