Who was the commander of the army of the LORD in Joshua 5:14?

Response

In Joshua 5:13–15, we read about Joshua’s conversation with the “commander of the army of the LORD.” This commander appeared to Joshua near Jericho before the decisive battle. The figure held a sword and informed Joshua that the ground he was standing on was sacred.

The individual who appeared to Joshua was evidently a mighty being. It is mentioned that Joshua prostrated himself and showed reverence.

Subsequently, Joshua addresses the figure using a Hebrew term that translates to “master” or “lord.” It is clear that Joshua held this being in high regard. Finally, the figure instructs Joshua to remove his sandals, stating, “for the place where you are standing is holy.”

Based on this account, there are two potential identities for this figure. Firstly, this commander could be a theophany, a visible manifestation of God Himself. This interpretation is supported by the fact that Joshua was asked to remove his sandals, similar to Moses at the burning bush when he encountered God “And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.”, (Exodus 3:5).

The alternative identity for this commander could be an angel. This perspective highlights that the being identifies himself as the “commander” of the Lord’s army, not as the Lord Himself. According to this viewpoint, Joshua’s act of bowing is considered a gesture of respect rather than worship. Joshua’s use of “lord” when addressing the commander could be a general term of respect.

Supporters of the theory that Joshua encountered an angel point to the belief that no one can see God and survive “And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.”, (Exodus 33:20). On the other hand, proponents of the idea that Joshua encountered God suggest that this was God the Son, a pre-incarnate being.

Divine appearance of Jesus Christ.

Whether the commander of the Lord’s army was angelic or divine, it was God who communicated an important message to Joshua to prepare him for the upcoming battle.