Flushed with their success in capturing Jericho under Joshua's leadership, the Hebrews were convinced that a smaller force would be ample to overcome the city of Ai (see Josh. 7:3), but to their dismay they suffered a crushing defeat. Turning to God for an explanation of this reversal, Joshua learned that it stemmed from the disobedience of Achan, who had stolen for his own use from the rich spoils of Jericho, spoils either consigned to destruction or dedicated to God's service (see Josh. 6:24; 7:11-13, 19-21). After the punishment of Achan, and the renewed dedication of Israel to obedience, Ai was overcome by means of a stratagem (see Josh. 8: 1-28) .
Typical of Israel's successes in southern Canaan was their effective defense of their allies, the Gibeonites, from the concerted attack of the armies of five Amorite kings. Even the forces of nature appeared to assist the Israelites (see Josh. 10:11-14), while city after city fell before them.
For a time the northern provinces remained unconquered, but the backbone of their opposition was broken when Israel decisively defeated another confederacy led by the king of Hazor, in spite of the reputed invincibility of his armies (see Josh. 11:4).
