The story begins with a death. Usually stories begin with a life. But death often brings a new beginning. In this case there is a new personnel change. Moses dies, and Joshua picks up the mantle of leadership. He had been prepared in advance: “And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands upon him; so the people of Israel obeyed him, and did as the Lord had commanded Moses” (Deut 34:9; see Num 27:15–23). The name Joshua means “Yahweh saves.” Interestingly