1 And it came to pass, when all the kings of the Amorites, which [were] on the side of Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, which [were] by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.
2 At that time the LORD said unto Joshua, Make thee sharp knives, and circumcise again the children of Israel the second time.
3 And Joshua made him sharp knives, and circumcised the children of Israel at the hill of the foreskins.
4 And this [is] the cause why Joshua did circumcise: All the people that came out of Egypt, [that were] males, [even] all the men of war, died in the wilderness by the way, after they came out of Egypt.
5 Now all the people that came out were circumcised: but all the people [that were] born in the wilderness by the way as they came forth out of Egypt, [them] they had not circumcised.
6 For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, till all the people [that were] men of war, which came out of Egypt, were consumed, because they obeyed not the voice of the LORD: unto whom the LORD sware that he would not shew them the land, which the LORD sware unto their fathers that he would give us, a land that floweth with milk and honey.
7 And their children, [whom] he raised up in their stead, them Joshua circumcised: for they were uncircumcised, because they had not circumcised them by the way.
8 And it came to pass, when they had done circumcising all the people, that they abode in their places in the camp, till they were whole.
9 And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day have I rolled away the reproach of Egypt from off you. Wherefore the name of the place is called Gilgal unto this day.
10 And the children of Israel encamped in Gilgal, and kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the month at even in the plains of Jericho.
11 And they did eat of the old corn of the land on the morrow after the passover, unleavened cakes, and parched [corn] in the selfsame day.
12 And the manna ceased on the morrow after they had eaten of the old corn of the land; neither had the children of Israel manna any more; but they did eat of the fruit of the land of Canaan that year.
13 And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, [Art] thou for us, or for our adversaries?
14 And he said, Nay; but [as] captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?
15 And the captain of the LORD’S host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest [is] holy. And Joshua did so.
Overview of Joshua Chapter 5
Joshua Chapter 5 marks a significant transition in the narrative of the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This chapter highlights key events that underscore the importance of covenant, obedience, and spiritual readiness for the people of Israel.
Key Events in Joshua Chapter 5
- Circumcision of the New Generation (Verses 2-9)
After crossing the Jordan River, God commands Joshua to circumcise the Israelite males who had not been circumcised during their time in the wilderness. This act symbolizes the renewal of the covenant between God and His people.
- Celebration of the Passover (Verse 10)
The Israelites observe the Passover on the plains of Jericho, marking a return to their identity as God’s chosen people and commemorating their deliverance from Egypt.
- Manna Ceases (Verses 11-12)
After eating the produce of the land, the miraculous provision of manna ceases, indicating a new phase in their sustenance as they enter the land flowing with milk and honey.
- Encounter with the Commander of the Lord’s Army (Verses 13-15)
Joshua encounters a mysterious figure identified as the commander of the Lord’s army, emphasizing God’s presence and leadership as they prepare for the conquest of Canaan.
Thematic Analysis
- Renewal of Covenant
The act of circumcision serves as a powerful reminder of the covenant established with Abraham. It signifies that the new generation is fully committed to God’s promises and is ready to take possession of the land.
- Identity and Heritage
The celebration of Passover reinforces the Israelites’ identity as God’s chosen people. It connects them to their history and reminds them of God’s faithfulness in delivering them from bondage.
- Transition and Provision
The cessation of manna signifies a shift from reliance on divine provision in the wilderness to the abundance of the Promised Land. This transition reflects growth and maturity in the Israelites’ faith and dependence on God.
- Divine Leadership
The encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army emphasizes that the success of their conquest is not solely dependent on military might but on obedience to God’s commands and His guidance.
Symbolic Significance
Joshua Chapter 5 is rich in symbolism, reflecting broader themes of faith, obedience, and divine guidance. The acts of circumcision and Passover are not merely rituals; they embody the spiritual readiness required to enter a new phase of life. The chapter illustrates the importance of preparation—both physical and spiritual—as the Israelites embark on a critical mission.
Conclusion
This chapter serves as a pivotal moment in the book of Joshua, marking the Israelites’ transition from a wandering people to a nation poised to claim their inheritance. The events of Joshua Chapter 5 underscore the necessity of covenant renewal, spiritual readiness, and reliance on divine leadership as the foundation for future victories in the Promised Land.
