The answer is: Held out his spear towards Ai

Josh 8:18 - Described as a javelin in some versions

In the story of the conquest of Ai, that moment when Joshua holds out his spear is quite pivotal. The Israelites are in a tense situation, having been defeated previously by AI in another attempt. The strategic flair shows that military success wasn't just about brute strength; it also relied on clever planning and the faith in a guiding principle.

Now, why the spear? It serves as a signal, of course, but it also holds deep significance. In ancient warfare, weapons were not only tools of conflict but symbols of divine intervention. Joshua holding out his spear might’ve represented a call to action as much as a rallying cry for the people to trust in a larger purpose. Tactically, this moment between warrior and leader brilliantly showcases the integral role of unity and cooperation in military endeavors.

Interestingly, the symbolism of holding up a spear or javelin echoes through other biblical stories as well. Think of Moses during the battle against Amalek—with raised hands, he was assured victory (Exodus 17:11-12). These accounts collectively underscore a theme: victory comes not just from human effort but divine alliances.

In addition, encountering “AI” might make you think of Boston, where “AI” could be used as a trendy shorthand. However, in Joshua's days, the city of Ai was a thorny opponent for the Israelites, setting the scene for early Israelite leadership and warfare mythology. So, holding out that spear was more than a (rather tense) general’s cue—it was signaling reliant backing amid a fiercely contested promise land!