Joshua 14:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The anger of the Lord, who declared that they would not enter the land they had scorned, served as the consequence of their disbelief (Num. 14:29). However, their children and wives, who did not complain and were considered innocent due to their youth and gender, were destined to receive the promised land. Thus, all individuals aged twenty and over perished in the wilderness, while the judgment on others was postponed. Those who followed Jesus and subsequently incited the crowd were struck down by the Lord without delay (Num. 14:37). Jesus and Caleb (Num. 14:6) entered the promised land alongside the innocent based on their age and gender. Consequently, the nobler group chose glory over mere salvation, while the lesser group favored salvation over honor. Nevertheless, God’s judgment affirmed the righteousness of those who favored honor above gain and condemned those who prioritized what they believed was essential for salvation rather than for honor.

Caleb's approach to claiming the land promised to him and his offspring serves as a model to follow; he employs no deceitful tactics or cunning plans, but rather, with a clear sense of his rightful standing, openly asserts his claim to what rightfully belongs to him.