Joshua 6:6

So Joshua son of Nun summoned the priests and said, "Take up the ark of the covenant and have seven priests carry seven rams' horns in front of the ark of the LORD."

Study Bible

summoned the priests
The act of summoning the priests highlights the central role of religious leaders in the Israelite community. Priests were intermediaries between God and the people, responsible for maintaining the spiritual integrity of the nation. In the context of the conquest of Jericho, their involvement signifies that this military campaign is not merely a physical battle but a spiritual undertaking ordained by God. The Hebrew root for "priest" is "kohen," which denotes someone who serves in a sacred capacity, reinforcing the idea that the battle is a divine mission.

and said to them
This phrase indicates direct communication and leadership. Joshua, as a leader, is not acting on his own accord but is conveying instructions that align with God's commands. The act of speaking to the priests demonstrates the importance of clear communication and obedience to divine instructions in achieving God's purposes. It reflects a hierarchical structure where God communicates His will through appointed leaders, ensuring that His plans are executed faithfully.

Take up the ark of the covenant
The "ark of the covenant" is a central symbol of God's presence among His people. It contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and manna, representing God's covenant, authority, and provision. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "aron," meaning a chest or box, but its significance is far greater as it embodies the divine presence. By instructing the priests to take up the ark, Joshua is emphasizing that the forthcoming battle is under God's guidance and authority. The ark's presence assures the Israelites of God's faithfulness and power.

and have seven priests carry seven trumpets
The number "seven" in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, derived from the Hebrew word "sheva." The use of seven priests and seven trumpets indicates a divinely ordained plan, complete and perfect in its execution. Trumpets, or "shofar" in Hebrew, were used in various religious and military contexts, often to signal God's intervention or to call the people to action. The specific instruction to carry trumpets suggests that the battle of Jericho is not just a physical conquest but a spiritual event, heralded by the sound of God's instruments.

of rams’ horns
Rams' horns, or "shofarot," were traditionally used in Israelite culture for religious ceremonies and as signals in battle. The choice of rams' horns, as opposed to other instruments, is significant because they are associated with the proclamation of God's presence and power. The shofar is a call to worship, repentance, and action, reminding the Israelites of God's sovereignty and their dependence on Him for victory. The use of rams' horns in this context underscores the spiritual nature of the battle and the need for the Israelites to trust in God's deliverance.

in front of the ark of the LORD
This phrase positions the priests and the trumpets in a place of prominence, leading the procession with the ark. The "ark of the LORD" signifies God's leadership and presence at the forefront of the battle. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. By placing the ark at the center of the procession, the Israelites are reminded that their success depends on God's presence and power. This arrangement serves as a visual and spiritual reminder that the battle belongs to the Lord, and victory is assured through His guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. His name in Hebrew, Yehoshua, means "The LORD is salvation."

2. Priests
The religious leaders of Israel, responsible for carrying the Ark of the Covenant and performing sacred duties. They play a crucial role in the spiritual and military strategy of Israel.

3. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel. It was central to Israel's worship and identity.

4. Seven Priests
A specific group chosen to carry the trumpets, symbolizing completeness and divine perfection in biblical numerology.

5. Trumpets of Rams’ Horns (Shofars)
Instruments used in religious ceremonies and battles, symbolizing God's power and the call to worship or war.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Divine Instruction
Joshua's immediate response to God's command demonstrates the importance of obedience in leadership and faith. We are called to trust and act on God's instructions, even when they defy human logic.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priests' involvement underscores the necessity of spiritual leadership in guiding God's people. We should support and pray for our spiritual leaders as they carry out their God-given responsibilities.

Symbolism of the Ark
The Ark's presence signifies God's guidance and protection. In our lives, we should seek to carry God's presence with us, ensuring that our actions align with His will.

Power of Worship and Proclamation
The use of trumpets highlights the power of worship and proclamation in spiritual warfare. We are encouraged to use worship as a tool to declare God's sovereignty and victory in our lives.

Faith in Action
The Israelites' faith was demonstrated through their actions. Our faith should likewise be active, manifesting in obedience and trust in God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's leadership in this passage reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the Ark of the Covenant symbolize God's presence in our lives today, and how can we ensure that we are living in alignment with His presence?

3. What is the significance of the number seven in this passage, and how does it relate to the concept of divine completeness in other parts of Scripture?

4. How can the role of the priests in this passage inform our understanding of the responsibilities of spiritual leaders in the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to act in faith despite uncertainty. How does the account of Jericho encourage you to trust in God's promises and timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing its significance as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

Numbers 10
Discusses the use of trumpets in Israel's journey, highlighting their role in signaling movement and divine intervention.

Hebrews 11
References the faith of Joshua and the Israelites in the conquest of Jericho, illustrating the power of faith in God's promises.