Joshua 6:12

Joshua got up early the next morning, and the priests took the ark of the LORD.

Study Bible

Joshua got up early the next morning
The phrase "Joshua got up early" indicates a sense of urgency and dedication. In Hebrew, the word for "early" is "שָׁכַם" (shakam), which often implies diligence and readiness to act. This reflects Joshua's commitment to God's command and his leadership qualities. Rising early is a recurring theme in the Bible, often associated with seeking God’s guidance and preparing for significant tasks (e.g., Genesis 22:3, Psalm 5:3). Joshua's early rising signifies his obedience and the importance of the mission at hand, which is the conquest of Jericho.

and the priests took the ark of the LORD
The "priests" in this context are the Levitical priests, who were set apart for sacred duties. The "ark of the LORD" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "אֲרוֹן" (aron), symbolizing God's presence among His people. The Ark was central to Israel's worship and a tangible representation of God's covenant and guidance. The priests carrying the Ark signifies the spiritual leadership and the centrality of God's presence in the battle strategy. This act underscores the belief that victory comes not by human might but through divine intervention and obedience to God's instructions. The Ark leading the procession around Jericho is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the necessity of faith in His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. His early rising signifies diligence and readiness to follow God's commands.

2. Priests
The religious leaders responsible for carrying the Ark of the Covenant. Their role underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and obedience in the conquest of Jericho.

3. Ark of the LORD
The sacred chest representing God's presence among His people. It was central to the Israelites' worship and a symbol of God's covenant with them.

4. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, representing the first major obstacle in the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land. Its fall demonstrates God's power and faithfulness.

5. Early Morning
The time of day when Joshua rose, indicating a sense of urgency and commitment to God's plan.

Teaching Points

Diligence in Obedience
Joshua's early rising reflects a heart committed to God's instructions. Believers are encouraged to prioritize God's commands in their daily lives.

Spiritual Leadership
The priests' role in carrying the Ark highlights the importance of spiritual leaders guiding their communities in faith and obedience.

God's Presence
The Ark symbolizes God's presence. Christians are reminded that God is with them, guiding and empowering them in their spiritual journey.

Faith in Action
The Israelites' actions at Jericho demonstrate that faith requires action. Believers are called to act on their faith, trusting in God's promises.

Preparation for Battle
Just as Joshua prepared for the battle of Jericho, Christians must prepare spiritually for the challenges they face, relying on God's strength and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's early rising reflect his commitment to God's plan, and how can we apply this diligence in our own spiritual lives?

2. In what ways does the role of the priests in carrying the Ark of the LORD inform our understanding of spiritual leadership today?

3. How does the presence of the Ark of the LORD during the march around Jericho encourage us to seek God's presence in our daily challenges?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' faith and obedience in the fall of Jericho, and how can we apply these lessons to our own faith journey?

5. How can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the "battles" we face in life, drawing parallels to Joshua's preparation for the conquest of Jericho?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, highlighting its significance as a symbol of God's presence and covenant with Israel.

Hebrews 11
References the faith of Joshua and the Israelites in the fall of Jericho, emphasizing faith as a key component in following God's commands.

Psalm 5
Speaks of seeking God in the morning, paralleling Joshua's early rising as a model for prioritizing God's will.