Final answer:
Joshua could be strong and courageous as a new leader because he had divine protection, according to the narrative in the Book of Joshua, rather than due to a powerful army, skilled warrior status, or advanced weaponry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question, 'Why could Joshua be strong and courageous as the new leader?' likely refers to the biblical figure Joshua, who succeeded Moses as the leader of the Israelites. Among the options given, the most appropriate answer in the context of biblical history would be b) He had divine protection. This is supported by the narrative in the Book of Joshua, where it emphasizes that Joshua's strength and courage were a result of divine support and mandate. In contrast, other options such as having a powerful army or advanced weaponry are not specifically highlighted as the source of his strength in the biblical texts.
The charismatic leader in historical contexts gains authority by demonstrating their strength and often claiming a divine mission. This is reflected in the case of Joshua, who lead the Israelites into the Promised Land with the belief that they were being led by divine guidance. In ancient times, wars were commonly waged in the name of a god or empire, and success was often seen as evidence of divine favor. The account of Joshua fits within this paradigm, underscoring the belief that his leadership and the Israelites' achievements were due to the favor of their god, Yahweh.