Joshua 7:26Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

It is clear that the vale of Achor mentioned by the prophets is the same location where Achan was executed by stoning. Emek Achor translates to the wilderness of Achor.

Following this, at God's command, the oath-breaker was identified through casting lots and was stoned. Through this act of justice against the oath-breaker, God's favor and victorious might were restored to Israel. What a profound warning! One act of breaking an oath, committed by a single individual, can inflict great harm upon the entire nation, and only through the divine assistance can this damage be halted. The judgment of God does not hesitate to chastise and bring down an oath-breaker, even in the absence of witness or evidence, someone whom a human tribunal might have never convicted. Therefore, be vigilant, all who take an oath in God's name; be mindful of your commitments; be attentive to the duties and service mandated by your sacred oath.