The curse formula is invoked in the Bible in order to outlaw certain behaviours (Deuteronomy 27:15; 1 Samuel 14:24, 1 Samuel 14:28; cf. Jeremiah 11:3; Jeremiah 20:15).1 The curse of Jericho seems to be similar to Moses’ directions in Deuteronomy 13:12–16 that cities tolerating the worship of other gods besides the Lord should be destroyed. The destruction of Jericho would then serve as a permanent reminder of the death that comes to those who rebel against the Lord and the command not to rebuild emphasizes that the land is given to them by the Lord as a gift.2
26 Joshua laid an oath on them at that time, saying, “Cursed before the LORD be the man who rises up and rebuilds this city, Jericho. “At the cost of his firstborn shall he lay its foundation, and at the cost of his youngest son shall he set up its gates.”