Joshua 6:5

And when there is a long blast of the ram's horn and you hear its sound, have all the people give a mighty shout. Then the wall of the city will collapse and all your people will charge straight into the city."

Study Bible

a long blast of the ram’s horn
The phrase "a long blast of the ram’s horn" refers to the shofar, a musical instrument made from a ram's horn, used in ancient Israel for religious and military purposes. The Hebrew word for "ram's horn" is "shofar," which is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and is often associated with significant religious events, such as the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah). The long blast signifies a divine signal, a call to action, and a moment of spiritual significance. In the context of Joshua 6:5, it represents God's direct intervention and the commencement of His miraculous plan for the Israelites to conquer Jericho.

you hear its sound
Hearing the sound of the shofar was a call to attention and action for the Israelites. In the Hebrew tradition, hearing is often linked with obedience and response. The sound of the shofar was not just a physical noise but a spiritual call to the people to prepare for God's mighty work. It was a reminder of God's presence and power, urging the Israelites to trust in His promises and act in faith.

all the people shall shout with a great shout
The command for "all the people shall shout with a great shout" emphasizes unity and collective faith among the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "shout" is "teruah," which can mean a loud noise or a battle cry. This shout was an expression of faith and obedience, a declaration of trust in God's promise to deliver Jericho into their hands. It symbolizes the power of communal faith and the importance of acting together in obedience to God's commands.

Then the wall of the city will collapse
The phrase "Then the wall of the city will collapse" describes the miraculous intervention of God in the battle of Jericho. The Hebrew word for "collapse" is "naphal," meaning to fall or to be overthrown. This event is a testament to God's power and faithfulness, demonstrating that victory comes not by human might but by divine intervention. The collapse of the walls of Jericho serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

the people will go up, each man straight ahead
The instruction that "the people will go up, each man straight ahead" indicates a direct and unhindered path to victory. The Hebrew word for "go up" is "alah," which can mean to ascend or to rise. This phrase signifies the fulfillment of God's promise and the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land. It highlights the importance of following God's guidance and moving forward in faith, trusting that He will clear the path and lead His people to victory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land.

2. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, representing the first major obstacle for the Israelites in their conquest of the land.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, chosen to inherit the Promised Land and fulfill God's covenant with Abraham.

4. The Priests
Those carrying the Ark of the Covenant and blowing the ram's horns, symbolizing God's presence and power.

5. The Ram’s Horn (Shofar)
A musical instrument used in religious ceremonies, symbolizing a call to action and divine intervention.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The Israelites' obedience to God's unusual battle plan demonstrates the importance of faith in action. Trusting God's methods, even when they seem unconventional, is crucial for spiritual victory.

Divine Strategy
God's instructions to Joshua reveal that divine strategies often defy human logic. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in their battles and trust His wisdom over their own understanding.

The Power of Unity
The collective shout of the Israelites signifies the power of unity in achieving God's purposes. The church today is called to unite in faith and purpose to overcome spiritual strongholds.

Symbolism of the Shofar
The ram's horn represents a call to spiritual readiness and action. Believers are reminded to be attentive to God's call and ready to respond in faith.

God's Faithfulness
The fall of Jericho is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Christians are encouraged to hold fast to God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to bring them to pass.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jericho challenge our understanding of faith and obedience in our personal lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of divine strategy in our decision-making processes today?

3. How does the unity of the Israelites in this passage inspire us to foster unity within our own faith communities?

4. What are some "walls" or obstacles in our lives that require us to trust in God's unconventional methods for victory?

5. How can the symbolism of the shofar in this passage encourage us to be spiritually alert and responsive to God's call?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:16-19
The sound of the trumpet at Mount Sinai, signifying God's presence and the giving of the Law.

1 Thessalonians 4:16
The trumpet call of God at the return of Christ, symbolizing divine intervention and fulfillment of promises.

Hebrews 11:30
The faith of the Israelites in the fall of Jericho, highlighting the power of faith in God's promises.