第45章 耶利哥的倾覆
§1
第45章 耶利哥的倾覆
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Chap. 45 - The Fall of Jericho
§3
希伯来人已经进入迦南，但他们还没有征服这地；照人的眼光看来，他们若要得那地为业，就必须经过一番长期而艰苦的奋斗。那地有一个强大的民族盘踞着，准备要抵抗对他们疆土的侵略。他们各部落都因惧怕这同样的危险而团结起来了。他们有马兵和铁的战车，他们既熟悉地势，又受过军事训练，处处占了优势。再加上那地有坚固的堡垒，就是“高得顶天的城邑。”（申9:1）所以以色列人唯有依靠那不出于自己的力量，才能希望在即将来临的战斗中获得胜利。[1]{PP 487.1}
§4
The Hebrews had entered Canaan, but they had not subdued it; and to human appearance the struggle to gain possession of the land must be long and difficult. It was inhabited by a powerful race, who stood ready to oppose the invasion of their territory. The various tribes were bound together by the fear of a common danger. Their horses and iron battle chariots, their knowledge of the country, and their training in war, would give them great advantage. Furthermore, the country was guarded by fortresses--cities great and fenced up to heaven. Deuteronomy 9:1. Only in the assurance of a strength not their own could the Israelites hope for success in the impending conflict.{PP 487.1}[1]
§5
离以色列人安营之地吉甲不远，有当地一个最坚强的要塞，挡着他们的去路，这要塞就是强大而富足的耶利哥城。这城位于肥沃平原的边界上，富有各样热带的出产，其中的宫殿和庙宇，乃是奢侈和罪恶的渊薮；这一座骄傲的城邑，胆敢在它的雉堞后面抗拒以色列的上帝。耶利哥城乃是敬拜偶像的一个主要中心，尤以崇奉月神亚斯他录著名。迦南人一切最邪淫，最腐败的敬拜都集中于此。以色列人对在伯毗珥犯罪的可怕结果记忆犹新，所以他们一想到这座信奉异教的城，就不禁生出憎恨与厌恶来。[2]{PP 487.2}
§6
One of the strongest fortresses in the land--the large and wealthy city of Jericho--lay just before them, but a little distance from their camp at Gilgal. On the border of a fertile plain abounding with the rich and varied productions of the tropics, its palaces and temples the abode of luxury and vice, this proud city, behind its massive battlements, offered defiance to the God of Israel. Jericho was one of the principal seats of idol worship, being especially devoted to Ashtaroth, the goddess of the moon. Here centered all that was vilest and most degrading in the religion of the Canaanites. The people of Israel, in whose minds were fresh the fearful results of their sin at Beth-peor, could look upon this heathen city only with disgust and horror.{PP 487.2}[2]
§7
约书亚认为攻取耶利哥是克服迦南地的先决条件。但他首先要寻求上帝引领他们的一个保证，这也蒙赐给他了。当他离开营盘去默想祈祷，求以色列的上帝行在百姓前面的时候，他看见一位武装的战士，身材高大，威风凛凛，“手里有拔出来的刀。”约书亚盘问他说：“你是帮助我们呢？是帮助我们敌人呢？”他回答说：“我来是要作耶和华军队的元帅。”（书5:13-15；6-7:）这位神秘的生客，就用他从前在何烈山吩咐摩西的话，命令约书亚说：“把你脚上的鞋脱下来，因为你所站的地方是圣地；”这话就显明他的真身份了。这站在以色列领袖约书亚面前的就是基督，就是上帝所高举的一位。于是约书亚极其恐惧，俯伏在地下拜，这时听见向他保证说：“我已经把耶利哥和耶利哥的王，并大能的勇士，都交在你手中。”约书亚又从主那里领受了攻取那城的指示。[3]{PP 487.3}
§8
To reduce Jericho was seen by Joshua to be the first step in the conquest of Canaan. But first of all he sought an assurance of divine guidance, and it was granted him. Withdrawing from the encampment to meditate and to pray that the God of Israel would go before His people, he beheld an armed warrior, of lofty stature and commanding presence, with his sword drawn in his hand. To Joshuas challenge, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? the answer was given, As Captain of the host of the Lord am I now come. The same command given to Moses in Horeb, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy, revealed the true character of the mysterious stranger. It was Christ, the Exalted One, who stood before the leader of Israel. Awe-stricken, Joshua fell upon his face and worshiped, and heard the assurance, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valor, and he received instruction for the capture of the city.{PP 487.3}[3]
§9
约书亚遵着上帝的命令，布置了以色列的军队。他们并不是要去攻城，只是抬着约柜，吹着羊角，围绕那城。先遣部队是一支精选的武士，这一次他们不是要靠自己的武艺和勇力得到胜利，乃是要靠着上帝所给他们的指示。七个拿着羊角的祭司跟在后面；随后有穿戴圣服的祭司，抬着那周围有上帝荣耀之光辉的约柜。以色列全军随在后面，各支派各归自己的纛下。这就是围绕那注定遭劫之城的行列。当时所能听见的，只有那大军的步伐声，与耶利哥街道上的号角声，以及响应于群山之间的回声。围绕完了，全军就鸦雀无声地回到他们的帐棚，约柜也仍旧安置在会幕中的原处。[4]{PP 488.1}
§10
In obedience to the divine command Joshua marshaled the armies of Israel. No assault was to be made. They were simply to make the circuit of the city, bearing the ark of God and blowing upon trumpets. First came the warriors, a body of chosen men, not now to conquer by their own skill and prowess, but by obedience to the directions given them from God. Seven priests with trumpets followed. Then the ark of God, surrounded by a halo of divine glory, was borne by priests clad in the dress denoting their sacred office. The army of Israel followed, each tribe under its standard. Such was the procession that compassed the doomed city. No sound was heard but the tread of that mighty host and the solemn peal of the trumpets, echoing among the hills and resounding through the streets of Jericho. The circuit completed, the army returned in silence to their tents, and the ark was restored to its place in the tabernacle.{PP 488.1}[4]
§11
耶利哥城上的守望者，以希奇惊骇的心情注视着每一个行动，并把一切都报告给当局。他们不明白这一切举动到底是什么意思；但是当他们看到大军同着神圣的约柜，和侍从的祭司们每天绕城一次时，这神秘的现象使他们的祭司和百姓大起恐慌。他们再视察他们坚固的防御工事，觉得自己很能抵抗极强大的袭击。许多人存着讥诮的心，以为单单这样奇特的游行示威，焉能伤害他们分毫？其他的人看到那行列每天来围城，就甚畏惧。这些人记得在这一族人面前，红海曾经裂开，而最近约旦河也为他们开了一条道路。这些人真不知道上帝还要为他们行什么大事呢。[5]{PP 488.2}
§12
With wonder and alarm the watchmen of the city marked every move, and reported to those in authority. They knew not the meaning of all this display; but when they beheld that mighty host marching around their city once each day, with the sacred ark and the attendant priests, the mystery of the scene struck terror to the hearts of priest and people. Again they would inspect their strong defenses, feeling certain they could successfully resist the most powerful attack. Many ridiculed the thought that any harm could come to them through these singular demonstrations. Others were awed as they beheld the procession that each day wound about the city. They remembered that the Red Sea had once parted before this people, and that a passage had just been opened for them through the river Jordan. They knew not what further wonders God might work for them.{PP 488.2}[5]
§13
以色列大军把耶利哥城围绕了六天。到第七日清早天才破晓的时候，约书亚就集合了耶和华的军队。这一天他们要绕城七次，而且当角声拖长的时候，他们就要大声呼喊，因为上帝已经把城交给他们了。[6]{PP 488.3}
§14
For six days the host of Israel made the circuit of the city. The seventh day came, and with the first dawn of light, Joshua marshaled the armies of the Lord. Now they were directed to march seven times around Jericho, and at a mighty peal from the trumpets to shout with a loud voice, for God had given them the city.{PP 488.3}[6]
§15
大军严肃地绕着这一座注定遭劫的城行。除了军兵整齐的步伐外，听不到一丝的声息，只有频频吹起的号角之声突破清晨的沉寂。这高大的坚石城墙，似乎是不能被人包围所能震撼的。可是当以色列的军队一次一次地绕城，绕到第六次时，那城墙上的哨兵就越来越恐怖了。他们疑问说，这种神秘的行动，目的何在？将有什么大变故要发生呢？他们不用等候多久就可以知道了。当绕毕第七次时，这极长的行列就停住了。那曾经一度静止下来的角声，这时突然齐发，震动全地。坚固的石墙，以及高大的城楼，鳞比的雉堞，突然基础动摇，轰然一声，立时夷为平地。耶利哥的居民吓得瘫软了，以色列军一举就进占了耶利哥城。[7]{PP 491.1}
§16
The vast army marched solemnly around the devoted walls. All was silent, save the measured tread of many feet, and the occasional sound of the trumpet, breaking the stillness of the early morning. The massive walls of solid stone seemed to defy the siege of men. The watchers on the walls looked on with rising fear, as, the first circuit ended, there followed a second, then a third, a fourth, a fifth, a sixth. What could be the object of these mysterious movements? What mighty event was impending? They had not long to wait. As the seventh circuit was completed, the long procession paused, The trumpets, which for an interval had been silent, now broke forth in a blast that shook the very earth. The walls of solid stone, with their massive towers and battlements, tottered and heaved from their foundations, and with a crash fell in ruin to the earth. The inhabitants of Jericho were paralyzed with terror, and the hosts of Israel marched in and took possession of the city.{PP 491.1}[7]
§17
这一次的胜利，并不是凭着以色列人自己的力量；完全是由耶和华而来；这座城和其中一切所有的，要作迦南地初熟的果子，完全献给耶和华上帝为祭物，这要在以色列人心中留下深刻的印象，使他们明白，在征服迦南地的时候，切不可为自己争战，他们不过是上帝的工具，去执行他的旨意而已。并且不可为自己图谋财富或尊荣，乃是要追求他们的王耶和华的荣耀。在耶利哥城陷落之前，就有命令给他们说：“这城和其中所有的，都要在耶和华面前毁灭。”“你们务要谨慎，不可取那当灭的物，恐怕你们……连累以色列的全营，使全营受咒诅。”[8]{PP 491.2}
§18
The Israelites had not gained the victory by their own power; the conquest had been wholly the Lords; and as the first fruits of the land, the city, with all that it contained, was to be devoted as a sacrifice to God. It was to be impressed upon Israel that in the conquest of Canaan they were not to fight for themselves, but simply as instruments to execute the will of God; not to seek for riches or self-exaltation, but the glory of Jehovah their King. Before the capture the command had been given, The city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein. Keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed . . . and make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it.{PP 491.2}[8]
§19
城中的一切居民和其中所有的活物，“不拘男女、老少、牛羊和驴，都用刀杀尽，”唯有忠信的喇合和她一家被救活了，正如探子向她所应许的。众人把全城烧毁了；城内的宫殿和庙宇，大厦和其中一切奢华的陈设，富丽的帷幔和贵重的衣饰，都付之一炬。凡不能被火烧毁的“金子银子和铜铁的器皿，”都要献给会幕作供奉的用途。城的基址全都受了咒诅，上帝命定耶利哥不得再建为一个要塞；任何人若擅敢重修神圣的能力所拆毁的城墙，就必有刑罚落在他的头上。约书亚当着全以色列人郑重声明：“有兴起重修这耶利哥城的人，当在耶和华面前受咒诅；他立根基的时候，必丧长子，安门的时候，必丧幼子。”[9]{PP 491.3}
§20
All the inhabitants of the city, with every living thing that it contained, both man and woman, young and old, and ox, and sheep, and ass, were put to the sword. Only faithful Rahab, with her household, was spared, in fulfillment of the promise of the spies. The city itself was burned; its palaces and temples, its magnificent dwellings with all their luxurious appointments, the rich draperies and the costly garments, were given to the flames. That which could not be destroyed by fire, the silver, and the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron, was to be devoted to the service of the tabernacle. The very site of the city was accursed; Jericho was never to be rebuilt as a stronghold; judgments were threatened upon anyone who should presume to restore the walls that divine power had cast down. The solemn declaration was made in the presence of all Israel, Cursed be the man before the Lord, that riseth up and buildeth this city Jericho: he shall lay the foundation thereof in his first-born, and in his youngest son shall he set up the gates of it.{PP 491.3}[9]
§21
耶利哥人的全然毁灭，不过是应验了从前借着摩西所发的关于迦南居民的命令：“耶和华你上帝将他们交给你击杀，那时你要把他们灭绝净尽。”“这些国民的城，……其中凡有气息的，一个不可存留。”（申7:2；20:16）许多人以为这些命令，与《圣经》上其他部分所含慈爱和怜恤的精神不符；其实，这些命令全是出于上帝无限的智慧和良善。上帝即将使以色列人在迦南立业，要在他们中间建立一个在地上显示他国度的国家和政府。以色列民不仅要继承纯正的信仰，而且也要将这信仰的原理传扬到全世界。迦南人已沉溺于最邪淫、最腐败的异教之中；所以凡可能拦阻上帝恩旨实现的障碍，都必须清除。[10]{PP 492.1}
§22
The utter destruction of the people of Jericho was but a fulfillment of the commands previously given through Moses concerning the inhabitants of Canaan: Thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them. Deuteronomy 7:2. Of the cities of these people, . . . thou shalt save alive nothing that breatheth. Deuteronomy 20:16. To many these commands seem to be contrary to the spirit of love and mercy enjoined in other portions of the Bible, but they were in truth the dictates of infinite wisdom and goodness. God was about to establish Israel in Canaan, to develop among them a nation and government that should be a manifestation of His kingdom upon the earth. They were not only to be inheritors of the true religion, but to disseminate its principles throughout the world. The Canaanites had abandoned themselves to the foulest and most debasing heathenism, and it was necessary that the land should be cleared of what would so surely prevent the fulfillment of Gods gracious purposes.{PP 492.1}[10]
§23
上帝已经赐给迦南地居民充分悔改的机会，四十年前，红海裂开以及降在埃及人身上的灾难，业已证明以色列上帝的无上权能。最近米甸、基列和巴珊诸王的被杀，进一步地显明了耶和华是超乎众神之上的上帝。上帝因以色列人在巴力毗珥参加可憎的仪式而降在他们身上的刑罚，也表明了他品德的圣洁和他对淫乱之事的憎恶。这一切的事，耶利哥的居民都是知道的；有许多人同喇合一样，也信服耶和华以色列的上帝，“本是上天下地的上帝，”可是他们不肯顺从。迦南人像洪水以前的人一样，生存在世，只是亵渎上天，污秽下地。无论根据慈爱或根据公义，这些作了上帝的叛徒和人类的公敌的人，必须速速予以除灭。[11]{PP 492.2}
§24
The inhabitants of Canaan had been granted ample opportunity for repentance. Forty years before, the opening of the Red Sea and the judgments upon Egypt had testified to the supreme power of the God of Israel. And now the overthrow of the kings of Midian, of Gilead and Bashan, had further shown that Jehovah was above all gods. The holiness of His character and His abhorrence of impurity had been evinced in the judgments visited upon Israel for their participation in the abominable rites of Baalpeor. All these events were known to the inhabitants of Jericho, and there were many who shared Rahabs conviction, though they refused to obey it, that Jehovah, the God of Israel, is God in heaven above, and upon the earth beneath. Like the men before the Flood, the Canaanites lived only to blaspheme Heaven and defile the earth. And both love and justice demanded the prompt execution of these rebels against God and foes to man.{PP 492.2}[11]
§25
请看，上天的军队多么容易地，把那四十年前吓倒无信心探子的骄傲城邑耶利哥变为平地啊！以色列的大能者曾说：“我已经把耶利哥交在你手中。”这一句话，是人的力量所无法抗拒的。[12]{PP 492.3}
§26
How easily the armies of heaven brought down the walls of Jericho, that proud city whose bulwarks, forty years before, had struck terror to the unbelieving spies! The Mighty One of Israel had said, I have given into thine hand Jericho. Against that word human strength was powerless.{PP 492.3}[12]
§27
“以色列人因着信，围绕耶利哥城七日，城墙就倒塌了。”（来1:3）耶和华军队的元帅，只与约书亚一人交往；他没有向全会众显现，所以约书亚的话他们是否相信，他奉耶和华的名所发的命令他们是否顺从，则完全由他们自行决定。他们看不见那由上帝儿子率领与他们同在的天军。他们可能揣测说：“这行动是多么的没有意义啊！每天围绕城墙，大吹羊角，这是何等可笑的举动呢？这对于巍然屹立的要塞，决不能起什么作用。”但在城墙最后倾覆之前，这继续举行那么久的围城行动乃是一个计划，好使以色列人有机会借以生发信心。这一件事也要使他们深觉自己的力量并不是出于人的智慧，也不是出于人的能力，而是出于拯救他们的上帝。他们要这样来养成完全依靠他们神圣领袖的习惯。[13]{PP 493.1}
§28
By faith the walls of Jericho fell down. Hebrews 11:30. The Captain of the Lords host communicated only with Joshua; He did not reveal Himself to all the congregation, and it rested with them to believe or doubt the words of Joshua, to obey the commands given by him in the name of the Lord, or to deny his authority. They could not see the host of angels who attended them under the leadership of the Son of God. They might have reasoned: What unmeaning movements are these, and how ridiculous the performance of marching daily around the walls of the city, blowing trumpets of rams horns. This can have no effect upon those towering fortifications. But the very plan of continuing this ceremony through so long a time prior to the final overthrow of the walls afforded opportunity for the development of faith among the Israelites. It was to be impressed upon their minds that their strength was not in the wisdom of man, nor in his might, but only in the God of their salvation. They were thus to become accustomed to relying wholly upon their divine Leader.{PP 493.1}[13]
§29
上帝必要为那些信赖他的人施行大事。那些自称是他子民的人之所以没有更大的力量，就是因为他们过于依仗自己的智慧，而没有给耶和华机会为他们显示他的能力。凡信上帝的人，如果在一切危难之中能完全信赖他，并忠心顺从他，他就必帮助他们。[14]{PP 493.2}
§30
God will do great things for those who trust in Him. The reason why His professed people have no greater strength is that they trust so much to their own wisdom, and do not give the Lord an opportunity to reveal His power in their behalf. He will help His believing children in every emergency if they will place their entire confidence in Him and faithfully obey Him.{PP 493.2}[14]
§31
在耶利哥城倾覆之后不久，约书亚决定去攻取艾城，这艾城离约旦平原西边只有数里之遥，是位于峡谷之间的一座小城。所派去窥探那地的探子回来报告说，那城的居民不多，只要派一小队人去就可以攻取了。[15]{PP 493.3}
§32
Soon after the fall of Jericho, Joshua determined to attack Ai, a small town among the ravines a few miles to the west of the Jordan Valley. Spies sent to this place brought back the report that the inhabitants were but few, and that only a small force would be needed to overthrow it.{PP 493.3}[15]
§33
上帝为以色列人获得的伟大胜利，使他们有了自信心。上帝既应许把迦南地赐给他们，他们就觉得稳能到手，并没有看出唯有借着上帝的帮助，他们才能成功。连约书亚也没有求问上帝。就定了攻取艾城的计划。[16]{PP 493.4}
§34
The great victory that God had gained for them had made the Israelites self-confident. Because He had promised them the land of Canaan they felt secure, and failed to realize that divine help alone could give them success. Even Joshua laid his plans for the conquest of Ai without seeking counsel from God.{PP 493.4}[16]
§35
这时，以色列人趾高气扬、自负兵力、轻视敌人。以为很容易获得胜利；他们认为只要派三千人去就足以攻取那城。事先也没有得到上帝与他们同在的确证，就贸然冲向前去，攻打艾城。可是他们还没有到达城门，就遭到了坚决的抵抗。他们发现仇敌的人数众多、戒备森严，就大起恐慌，从下坡仓惶逃命。迦南人从后急追；“从城门前追赶他们，……在下坡杀败他们。”这一次的战败，在人数方面的损失虽然不多，只有三十六人被杀，可是，全会众却因而灰心丧胆了。“众民的心就消化如水。”这是他们第一次与迦南人实际作战，如果在防守这一个小城的人面前转身逃跑，那么，若与前面更强大的敌人作战，又将有怎样的结果呢？约书亚认为他们的失败乃是显出上帝不悦纳他们，所以他在苦恼忧惧之中“撕裂衣服；他和以色列的长老把灰撒在头上，在耶和华的约柜前，俯伏在地，直到晚上。”[17]{PP 493.5}
§36
The Israelites had begun to exalt their own strength and to look with contempt upon their foes. An easy victory was expected, and three thousand men were thought sufficient to take the place. These rushed to the attack without the assurance that God would be with them. They advanced nearly to the gate of the city, only to encounter the most determined resistance. Panic-stricken at the numbers and thorough preparation of their enemies, they fled in confusion down the steep descent. The Canaanites were in hot pursuit; they chased them from before the gate, . . . and smote them in the going down. Though the loss was small as to numbers--but thirty-six men being slain--the defeat was disheartening to the whole congregation. The hearts of the people melted, and became as water. This was the first time they had met the Canaanites in actual battle, and if put to flight before the defenders of this little town, what would be the result in the greater conflicts before them? Joshua looked upon their ill success as an expression of Gods displeasure, and in distress and apprehension he rent his clothes, and fell to the earth upon his face before the ark of the Lord until the eventide, he and the elders of Israel, and put dust upon their heads.{PP 493.5}[17]
§37
他说：“哀哉，主耶和华啊，你为什么竟领这百姓过约旦河，将我们交在亚摩利人的手中，使我们灭亡呢？……主啊，以色列人既在仇敌面前转背逃跑，我还有什么可说的呢？迦南人和这地一切的居民听见了，就必围困我们，将我们的名从地上除灭；那时你为你的大名要怎样行呢？”[18]{PP 494.1}
§38
Alas, O Lord God, he cried, wherefore hast Thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? . . . O Lord, what shall I say, when Israel turneth their backs before their enemies! For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear of it, and shall environ us round, and cut off our name from the earth: and what wilt Thou do unto Thy great name?{PP 494.1}[18]
§39
耶和华回答他说：“起来，你为何这样俯伏在地呢？以色列人犯了罪，违背了我所吩咐他们的约。”这是一个采取迅速坚决行动之时，而不是灰心哀哭的时候。在营中有了隐藏的罪，所以必须查明，除掉这罪，然后耶和华的圣颜和福惠才能与他的百姓同在。他说：“你们若不把当灭的物，从你们中间除掉，我就不再与你们同在了。”[19]{PP 494.2}
§40
The answer from Jehovah was, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath . . . transgressed My covenant which I commanded them. It was a time for prompt and decided action, and not for despair and lamentation. There was secret sin in the camp, and it must be searched out and put away before the presence and blessing of the Lord could be with His people. Neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you.{PP 494.2}[19]
§41
在那些被派执行上帝刑罚的人中，有一个没有尊重他的命令，所以全体会众要为这一个违犯律法之人的罪负责。“以色列人犯了罪，违背了我所吩咐他们的约，取了当灭的物；又偷窃，又行诡诈。”上帝指示约书亚怎样揭露并刑罚那犯罪之人。他要用拈阄的方法发现这罪。上帝没有直接指出那人，他要让这事暂时令人猜疑一下，使众人觉悟自己对他们中间存在着的罪恶所有的责任；如此，他们就会省察己心，并在上帝面前自卑了。[20]{PP 494.3}
§42
Gods command had been disregarded by one of those appointed to execute His judgments. And the nation was held accountable for the guilt of the transgressor: They have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also. Instruction was given to Joshua for the discovery and punishment of the criminal. The lot was to be employed for the detection of the guilty. The sinner was not directly pointed out, the matter being left in doubt for a time, that the people might feel their responsibility for the sins existing among them, and thus be led to searching of heart and humiliation before God.{PP 494.3}[20]
§43
于是约书亚清早起来，使百姓“按着支派”聚集前来，举行了这庄严而动人的仪式。审查的工作逐步进行，可怕的试验越逼越近了。先按支派，再按宗族，后按家室，最后按人丁拈阄；终于上帝的圣手指出犹大支派迦米的儿子亚干，为连累以色列的人。[21]{PP 495.1}
§44
Early in the morning, Joshua gathered the people together by their tribes, and the solemn and impressive ceremony began. Step by step the investigation went on. Closer and still closer came the fearful test. First the tribe, then the family, then the household, then the man was taken, and Achan the son of Carmi, of the tribe of Judah, was pointed out by the finger of God as the troubler of Israel.{PP 495.1}[21]
§45
对成立亚干的罪状，为免除疑问，并使人没有一点的借口说他是受了冤枉起见，约书亚恳劝他自己吐出真情。于是这个可怜的人承认他犯罪的全部经过，说：“我实在得罪了耶和华以色列的上帝。……我在所夺的财物中，看见一件美好的示拿衣服，二百舍客勒银子，一条金子，重五十舍客勒，我就贪爱这些物件，便拿去了；现今藏在我帐棚内的地里，银子在衣服底下。”于是约书亚立刻打发人到亚干的帐棚里，他们掘开他所指出的地方，只见“那件衣服果然藏在他帐棚内，银子在底下。他们就从帐棚里取出来，拿到约书亚……那里，放在耶和华面前。”[22]{PP 495.2}
§46
To establish his guilt beyond all question, leaving no ground for the charge that he had been unjustly condemned, Joshua solemnly adjured Achan to acknowledge the truth. The wretched man made full confession of his crime: Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel. . . . When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they are hid in the earth in the midst of my tent. Messengers were immediately dispatched to the tent, where they removed the earth at the place specified, and behold, it was hid in his tent, and the silver under it. And they took them out of the midst of the tent, and brought them unto Joshua, . . . and laid them out before the Lord.{PP 495.2}[22]
§47
判决既经宣布，于是立刻执行。约书亚说：“你为什么连累我们呢？今日耶和华必叫你受连累。”百姓既然要为亚干的罪负责，并曾遭受其后果，所以他们借着他们的代表，共同执法行刑。“以色列众人用石头打死他。”[23]{PP 495.3}
§48
Sentence was pronounced and immediately executed. Why hast thou troubled us? said Joshua, the Lord shall trouble thee this day. As the people had been held responsible for Achans sin, and had suffered from its consequences, they were, through their representatives, to take part in its punishment. All Israel stoned him with stones.{PP 495.3}[23]
§49
这时，他们在亚干身上堆了一大堆石头，作为这一次的罪，及其刑罚的见证。“因此那地方名叫亚割谷，”就是“连累”的意思。在历代志中记载亚干的事说，“亚干……连累了以色列人。”（代上2:7）[24]{PP 495.4}
§50
Then there was raised over him a great pile of stones--a witness to the sin and its punishment. Wherefore the name of that place was called, The valley of Achor, that is, trouble. In the book of Chronicles his memorial is written--Achar, the troubler of Israel. 1 Chronicles 2:7.{PP 495.4}[24]
§51
亚干的罪是犯了公然藐视上帝直接而严肃的警告、和他权能最伟大的显示。“你们务要谨慎，不可取当灭的物，恐怕……全营受咒诅，”这话已经向众民宣布。而且发这命令正在百姓神奇地过了约旦河，并受了承认上帝之约的割礼以后，也在遵守了逾越节，并在耶和华军队的元帅，立约的使者显现之后。这命令一发出，耶利哥就倾覆了，这证明毁灭必临到一切违犯上帝律法的人。以色列人唯有靠上帝的能力才能得胜，靠自己的力量就不能攻取耶利哥这一件事实，使上帝禁止他们私自劫掠的命令更显重要。上帝曾用他话的能力倾覆了这个要塞；胜利是属于他的，所以这城和其中所有的，要完全奉献与他。[25]{PP 495.5}
§52
Achans sin was committed in defiance of the most direct and solemn warnings and the most mighty manifestations of Gods power. Keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed, had been the proclamation to all Israel. The command was given immediately after the miraculous passage of the Jordan, and the recognition of Gods covenant by the circumcision of the people--after the observance of the Passover, and the appearance of the Angel of the covenant, the Captain of the Lords host. It had been followed by the overthrow of Jericho, giving evidence of the destruction which will surely overtake all transgressors of Gods law. The fact that divine power alone had given the victory to Israel, that they had not come into possession of Jericho by their own strength, gave solemn weight to the command prohibiting them from partaking of the spoils. God, by the might of His own word, had overthrown this stronghold; the conquest was His, and to Him alone the city with all that it contained was to be devoted.{PP 495.5}[25]
§53
在千万的以色列人中，只有一个人在膺惩和胜利的重要时辰，竟敢违犯上帝的命令。亚干的贪心，是由于看见一件示拿的贵重衣服而起的；就是到他面临死亡的时候，他还称之为“一件美好的示拿衣服。”一项罪能引起其他的罪，于是，又私自拿了那应归耶和华仓库的金银，他竟抢夺了那属于上帝的迦南地初熟的果子。[26]{PP 496.1}
§54
Of the millions of Israel there was but one man who, in that solemn hour of triumph and of judgment, had dared to transgress the command of God. Achans covetousness was excited by the sight of that costly robe of Shinar; even when it had brought him face to face with death he called it a goodly Babylonish garment. One sin had led to another, and he appropriated the gold and silver devoted to the treasury of the Lord--he robbed God of the first fruits of the land of Canaan.{PP 496.1}[26]
§55
使亚干遭遇败亡的死罪，乃是根于贪心，这是一切罪恶之中最普遍而最容易为人所轻忽的。当其他的过犯都被揭发而受处分时，只有这犯第十条诫命的罪，连一句责备的话也未曾听见。亚干的历史，是要将贪心之罪的可憎性及其可怕的后果教训我们。[27]{PP 496.2}
§56
The deadly sin that led to Achans ruin had its root in covetousness, of all sins one of the most common and the most lightly regarded. While other offenses meet with detection and punishment, how rarely does the violation of the tenth commandment so much as call forth censure. The enormity of this sin, and its terrible results, are the lessons of Achans history.{PP 496.2}[27]
§57
贪心的罪是渐渐发展的。亚干早已心怀贪得之念，终于养成恶习，使他受了枷锁一般的束缚，几至无法挣脱。当他孕育这罪，想到自己会连累以色列人受到惨祸时，他必是满心惶恐的；可惜他的知觉已经被罪所麻木，及至试探来到，他便轻易的落到撒但手中了。[28]{PP 496.3}
§58
Covetousness is an evil of gradual development. Achan had cherished greed of gain until it became a habit, binding him in fetters well-nigh impossible to break. While fostering this evil, he would have been filled with horror at the thought of bringing disaster upon Israel; but his perceptions were deadened by sin, and when temptation came, he fell an easy prey.{PP 496.3}[28]
§59
今日岂不是仍旧有人当着一样严肃明白的警告而犯了同样的罪吗？禁止亚干私自在耶利哥劫掠，也正如同是直接禁止我们放纵贪欲。上帝已经声明，贪心是与拜偶像的罪一样的。又警戒我们说：“你们不能又侍奉上帝，又侍奉玛门。”“你们要谨慎自守，免去一切的贪心。”“在你们中间连提都不可。”（西3:5；太6:24；路12:15；弗5:3）亚干、犹大、亚拿尼亚和撒非喇等人的可怕下场，都已摆在我们面前。在这些人之前，还有路锡甫，那“早晨之子”的终局，他因贪图更高的地位，反而永远丧失了天上的光明与福乐。可惜虽然有这一切的警戒，而贪婪的罪依然充盈如故啊！[29]{PP 496.4}
§60
Are not similar sins still committed, in the face of warnings as solemn and explicit? We are as directly forbidden to indulge covetousness as was Achan to appropriate the spoils of Jericho. God has declared it to be idolatry. We are warned, Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Matthew 6:24. Take heed, and beware of covetousness. Luke 12:15. Let it not be once named among you. Ephesians 5:3. We have before us the fearful doom of Achan, of Judas, of Ananias and Sapphira. Back of all these we have that of Lucifer, the son of the morning, who, coveting a higher state, forfeited forever the brightness and bliss of heaven. And yet, notwithstanding all these warnings, covetousness abounds.{PP 496.4}[29]
§61
我们到处都能看到贪婪卑劣的痕迹。它在家庭中造成不满与不和；惹动穷人对富人的嫉妒和仇恨；激起富人对穷人的残虐与压迫。而且这一种祸患不仅存在于社会之中，也存在于教会之内。就是在教会里，我们岂不是时常看到自私、贪婪、哄骗、忽略行善，“在当纳的十分之一和当献的供物上”夺取上帝之物吗？可叹在所谓“守道”的信徒之中，竟有许多现代的亚干存在！许多人堂堂皇皇地到会堂里赴聚会，并参加圣餐的礼，而在他们的财产之中却隐藏着不法的利得，就是上帝所咒诅之物。多少人为了一件美好的示拿衣服，不惜牺牲良心的安宁和天国的盼望。多少人为了一袋银子而出卖了自己的廉洁和有用的才干与前途。穷人受苦的哀鸣无人注意；福音真光的传播受了拦阻；自称信基督之人的言行不符，遭受世人的嘲笑；而贪得无餍的信徒，还在那里沉迷不醒地积攒财富。耶和华说：“人岂可夺取上帝之物呢？你们竟夺取我的供物。”（玛3:8）[30]{PP 497.1}
§62
Everywhere its slimy track is seen. It creates discontent and dissension in families; it excites envy and hatred in the poor against the rich; it prompts the grinding oppression of the rich toward the poor. And this evil exists not in the world alone, but in the church. How common even here to find selfishness, avarice, overreaching, neglect of charities, and robbery of God in tithes and offerings. Among church members in good and regular standing there are, alas! many Achans. Many a man comes statedly to church, and sits at the table of the Lord, while among his possessions are hidden unlawful gains, the things that God has cursed. For a goodly Babylonish garment, multitudes sacrifice the approval of conscience and their hope of heaven. Multitudes barter their integrity, and their capabilities for usefulness, for a bag of silver shekels. The cries of the suffering poor are unheeded; the gospel light is hindered in its course; the scorn of worldlings is kindled by practices that give the lie to the Christian profession; and yet the covetous professor continues to heap up treasures. Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me (Malachi 3:8), saith the Lord.{PP 497.1}[30]
§63
亚干的罪曾使以色列全国受害，为了一人的罪，上帝的忿怒必要临到他的教会，直到他们查出这罪，除去这罪为止。教会中最可怕的影响，并不是公开反对的人、不信的人和亵慢的人，而是那些自称属基督之人的言行不符。这些人使百姓得不到以色列上帝的赐福，并削弱上帝子民的力量。[31]{PP 497.2}
§64
Achans sin brought disaster upon the whole nation. For one mans sin the displeasure of God will rest upon His church till the transgression is searched out and put away. The influence most to be feared by the church is not that of open opposers, infidels, and blasphemers, but of inconsistent professors of Christ. These are the ones that keep back the blessing of the God of Israel and bring weakness upon His people.{PP 497.2}[31]
§65
当教会遭遇困难，存有冷淡和灵性衰落的情况，以致上帝的仇敌因而得意的时候，信徒们切不可垂头丧气，只为自己不幸的情况而悲哀，却要查问是不是有一个亚干在营中。各人务要自卑自省，来寻出上帝圣颜所不容许的隐藏的罪。[32]{PP 497.3}
§66
When the church is in difficulty, when coldness and spiritual declension exist, giving occasion for the enemies of God to triumph, then, instead of folding their hands and lamenting their unhappy state, let its members inquire if there is not an Achan in the camp. With humiliation and searching of heart, let each seek to discover the hidden sins that shut out Gods presence.{PP 497.3}[32]
§67
亚干固然承认了他的罪，但是已经太晚了，认罪对他再没有什么裨益。他曾看见以色列的军队打了败仗，灰心丧胆地从艾城回来；然而他没有前来承认他的罪。他曾看见约书亚和以色列的长老俯伏在地，悲不胜言。那时他若能认罪，也就能显出真悔改的凭据；可是他仍然保持缄默。他曾听见约书亚宣布有人犯了大罪，并听见他明确地说出那罪的性质。但他依然闭口无言。于是那严肃的调查工作开始了。当他看到指出他的支派、他的宗族和他的家室时，他的心中是何等地惶恐震惊啊！可是，他仍没有认罪，直等到上帝的手指出他本人来。于是到了无法再行隐瞒的时候，他才承认了事实。今日岂不是常有人也这样认罪吗？人若等到事实都证明了之后才肯认罪，与只有他自己和上帝知道的时候即行认罪。这二者之间的分别是很大的。亚干若不是希望借认罪来避免他犯罪的结果，他还是不会认罪的。但他的认罪只足以显明他所受的刑罚是公义的。他并没有真正悔改他的罪，没有痛悔前非，没有改变心志，也没有憎恨罪恶。[33]{PP 497.4}
§68
Achan acknowledged his guilt, but when it was too late for the confession to benefit himself. He had seen the armies of Israel return from Ai defeated and disheartened; yet he did not come forward and confess his sin. He had seen Joshua and the elders of Israel bowed to the earth in grief too great for words. Had he then made confession, he would have given some proof of true penitence; but he still kept silence. He had listened to the proclamation that a great crime had been committed, and had even heard its character definitely stated. But his lips were sealed. Then came the solemn investigation. How his soul thrilled with terror as he saw his tribe pointed out, then his family and his household! But still he uttered no confession, until the finger of God was placed upon him. Then, when his sin could no longer be concealed, he admitted the truth. How often are similar confessions made. There is a vast difference between admitting facts after they have been proved and confessing sins known only to ourselves and to God. Achan would not have confessed had he not hoped by so doing to avert the consequences of his crime. But his confession only served to show that his punishment was just. There was no genuine repentance for sin, no contrition, no change of purpose, no abhorrence of evil.{PP 497.4}[33]
§69
将来当罪人站在上帝的审判台前，在各人的生死案件都已决定之后，他们也必这样地认罪。每人自己所受犯罪的结果，必使他承认自己的罪。这是出于自知有罪，并由于战惧等候审判的感觉而不得不认罪。可是，这样的认罪并不能救罪人啊！[34]{PP 498.1}
§70
So confessions will be made by the guilty when they stand before the bar of God, after every case has been decided for life or death. The consequences to result to himself will draw from each an acknowledgment of his sin. It will be forced from the soul by an awful sense of condemnation and a fearful looking for of judgment. But such confessions cannot save the sinner.{PP 498.1}[34]
§71
许多人像亚干一样，以为只要能隐瞒他们的罪不使别人知道，他们就可以高枕无忧，并妄自以为上帝必不至于严格地追讨罪过。可是及至他们的罪无法摆脱，“虽献祭奉礼物也是不能得赎”的时候，已经后悔莫及了。将来在天上的案卷展开的时候，审判世人的主不必用言语宣布人的罪状，他只用那洞察人心和令人折服的眼光一看，行恶之人的每一件行为，和人生的每一样事情，就必生动地活现在他的记忆之中了。那时人也不必像在约书亚的日子一样，从支派到家室，一步一步地被检察出来，因为他自己的口必承认他的羞耻。于是那一直隐瞒着的罪必要向全世界公开出来。[35]{PP 498.2}
§72
So long as they can conceal their transgressions from their fellow men, many, like Achan, feel secure, and flatter themselves that God will not be strict to mark iniquity. All too late their sins will find them out in that day when they shall not be purged with sacrifice or offering forever. When the records of heaven shall be opened, the Judge will not in words declare to man his guilt, but will cast one penetrating, convicting glance, and every deed, every transaction of life, will be vividly impressed upon the memory of the wrongdoer. The person will not, as in Joshuas day, need to be hunted out from tribe to family, but his own lips will confess his shame. The sins hidden from the knowledge of men will then be proclaimed to the whole world.{PP 498.2}[35]