See (Joshua 9:1). “The south” was the Negeb (Numbers 13:17). Interpret “the springs” as “slopes.” The word here means the d…

Of the hills —that is, the mountains of Judah and Ephraim.

The south —that is, the Nêgeb.

The…

So Joshua smote all the country, etc. Here the divine authority is again interposed to completely acquit Joshua of any charge of cruelty. …

So Joshua smote all the country of the hills and of the
south, and of the vale, and of the springs, and …

Joshua acted swiftly in taking these cities. See what a great deal of work can be done in a little time, if we are diligent and improve our opportu…