The rending of the clothes as a sign of mourning and distress originated in ancient times (Gen. 37:34; 44:13). Generally the outer garment was torn in front, over the breast, but for no more than a handbreadth. This act became a custom among the Jews, as an external symbol of a broken heart (see Joel 2:12, 13. Placing dust or ashes on the head represented even greater grief and unworthiness 1 Sam. 4:12; 2 Sam. 1:2; 13:19). Joshua’s faith had led him to expect nothing but victories, and he now seemed to be at a total loss to understand this failure. But there are conditions to the promises of God, and these Joshua and Israel had not met (see on Joshua 7:3).