Joshua 11:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

All the nations and cities within the territory of Canaan were conquered by the might of Israel. There was not a single city that the Lord had not given over to the descendants of Israel. During the era of the judges and the kings of Israel and Judah, many regions were still not held by the Israelites, as their actions clearly demonstrate. For instance, Joshua overcame all the lands within his reach through battle. However, those cities and regions that were destined to be captured after his time chose to submit voluntarily, placing themselves under the authority of the Hebrew people.