The Church Fathers on this verse

Joshua 1:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Take courage therefore, and be very valiant: that thou mayst observe and do all the law, which Moses my servant hath commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayst understand all things which thou dost.

Douay-Rheims

רַק֩ חֲזַ֨ק וֶֽאֱמַ֜ץ מְאֹ֗ד לִשְׁמֹ֤ר לַעֲשׂוֹת֙ כְּכָל־הַתּוֹרָ֗ה אֲשֶׁ֤ר צִוְּךָ֙ מֹשֶׁ֣ה עַבְדִּ֔י אַל־תָּס֥וּר מִמֶּ֖נּוּ יָמִ֣ין וּשְׂמֹ֑אול לְמַ֣עַן תַּשְׂכִּ֔יל בְּכֹ֖ל אֲשֶׁ֥ר תֵּלֵֽךְ׃

Hebrew (Masoretic text)

The Church Fathers on this verse

4 Church Fathers comment on this verse

Gregory the Theologian

4th centuryChurch Father

What should we contemplate and to what degree? We should focus on what is within our reach and consider the state and capacity of the listener. Just as excessive noise or rich foods can harm some ears and some bodies, so too can listeners, weighed down by challenging teachings, lose their previous vitality. I do not mean to suggest that we should neglect our remembrance of God (let not those eager to criticize us take offense!). Remembering God is of utmost importance, more vital than breathing itself, and apart from this, nothing else ought to take precedence.

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I stand in agreement with the instruction that encourages us to teach continually, both by day and by night (Psalms 1:2), to recount His deeds at evening, morning, and noon (Psalms 54:18), and to praise the Lord in all circumstances (Psalms 33:2). Moreover, there is the directive from Moses that as we lie down, rise up, walk along the way (Deuteronomy 6:7), or engage in any other activity, we ought to remember God, allowing this remembrance to anchor our purity. Therefore, I do not prohibit constant remembrance of God, nor do I condemn theology itself; rather, I caution against untimely discussions of it. My concern is not with the doctrine of faith but rather the failure to maintain balance. Just as one can experience discomfort from overindulgence—even with something as sweet as honey—there is a season for every purpose (Ecclesiastes 3:1), as echoing Solomon's wisdom. Even the most beautiful things lose their allure when they are out of place; for example, flowers in winter, attire suited for one gender worn by another, mathematical lessons during times of sorrow, or tears shed at joyful occasions are wholly improper.

Apostolic Constitutions

4th centuryChurch Father

"Stand firm and be strong." Avoid being like those who meander and linger in the streets, prying into the lives of those who lead immoral existences. Instead, as you dedicate yourself to your work, strive to act in a way that pleases God, continually reflecting on the teachings of Christ. As Scripture reminds us, "Study in the law day and night, walking in the field and sitting at home, going to bed and rising, that you may understand all things." (Num. 1:8). If you find yourself wealthy and do not require work for your sustenance, refrain from aimlessness. Instead, seek fellowship with those who share your beliefs, engaging in meaningful conversations and sharing words that impart life. If this is not possible, remain at home to meditate on the Law, the Books of Kings, the Prophets, and sing the Psalms while diligently pondering the Gospel, which fulfills these sacred texts.

Pachomius the Great

4th centuryChurch Father

Be steadfast and courageous. Consider how Joshua, son of Nun, displayed firmness and bravery, resulting in God granting him victory over his foes. Conversely, if you allow fear to take hold, you will become alienated from God's commandments. Such cowardice will envelop you in garments of sloth, doubt, and neglect, leading to your downfall.

Nikolaj Velimirovic

20th centuryChurch Father

Joshua, the son of Nun, obeyed the Lord in all things until his end, without turning to the right or to the left from God's law. He was surrounded by dangers and terrors as he led the people through an unknown land, through the dense ranks of the enemies; yet he was not afraid and remained fearless.

Cross references

Passages read together with this verse.