◄ Joshua 4 ►
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Twelve Stones from the Jordan 1When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua, 2“Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe, 3and command them: ‘Take up for yourselves twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan where the priests were standing, carry them with you, and set them down in the place where you spend the night.’” 4So Joshua summoned the twelve men he had appointed from the Israelites, one from each tribe, 5and said to them, “Cross over before the ark of the LORD your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each of you is to take a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of Israel, 6to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ 7you are to tell them, ‘The waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters were cut off.’ Therefore these stones will be a memorial to the Israelites forever.” 8Thus the Israelites did as Joshua had commanded them. They took up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan, one for each tribe of Israel, just as the LORD had told Joshua; and they carried them to the camp, where they set them down. 9Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan,a in the place where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant stood. And the stones are there to this day. 10Now the priests who carried the ark remained standing in the middle of the Jordan until the people had completed everything the LORD had commanded Joshua to tell them, just as Moses had directed Joshua. The people hurried across, 11and after everyone had finished crossing, the priests with the ark of the LORD crossed in the sight of the people. 12The Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh crossed over before the Israelites, armed for battle as Moses had instructed them. 13About 40,000 troops armed for battle crossed over before the LORD into the plains of Jericho. 14On that day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they revered him all the days of his life, just as they had revered Moses. 15Then the LORD said to Joshua, 16“Command the priests who carry the ark of the Testimonyb to come up from the Jordan.” 17So Joshua commanded the priests, “Come up from the Jordan.” 18When the priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD came up out of the Jordan and their feet touched the dry land, the waters of the Jordan returned to their course and overflowed all the banks as before. The Camp at Gilgal 19On the tenth day of the first month the people went up from the Jordan and camped at Gilgal on the eastern border of Jericho. 20And there at Gilgal Joshua set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan. 21Then Joshua said to the Israelites, “In the future, when your children ask their fathers, ‘What is the meaning of these stones?’ 22you are to tell them, ‘Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.’ 23For the LORD your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed over, just as He did to the Red Sea,c which He dried up before us until we had crossed over. 24He did this so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, and so that you may always fear the LORD your God.” Footnotes: 9 a Some translators And Joshua set up the twelve stones that had been in the middle of the Jordan 16 b That is, the ark of the covenant 23 c Or the Sea of Reeds Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 4 Summary Twelve Stones from the Jordan Verses 1–3 – Twelve Stones Chosen When the entire nation had crossed, the LORD told Joshua to appoint one man from each tribe to pick up a stone from the riverbed and carry it to the western bank. These stones were to come from “the very place where the priests' feet stood firm.” Verses 4–7 – Purpose Explained to Israel Joshua relays God’s plan: the stones will become a sign for future generations. Children will ask, “What do these stones mean?” and parents will answer that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. Verses 8–10 – Obedience Carried Out The twelve chosen men lift the stones onto their shoulders “according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites.” Joshua also sets up twelve stones in the middle of the river, marking where the priests had stood. The priests remain until every directive from the LORD is completed. Verses 11–14 – Ark Comes Up; Joshua Exalted As soon as the people finish crossing, the ark and priests come up from the Jordan. The warriors of Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh lead the march into Canaan, honoring their pledge (cf. Numbers 32). “On that day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel.” Verses 15–18 – Waters Return At God’s command the priests step onto dry land, and “the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed all its banks as before.” The miracle is publicly sealed. Verses 19–24 – Memorial Raised at Gilgal Israel camps at Gilgal on the eastern border of Jericho. Joshua sets up the twelve stones there and preaches their meaning: “that all the peoples of the earth may know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty, and that you may fear the LORD your God forever.” In Joshua Chapter 4, a significant event occurs as the Israelites cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Led by Joshua and assisted by the power of God, the Israelites erect memorial stones as a testament to the miraculous event for future generations. Historical Setting and Geography • Timeframe: Late spring, during the Jordan’s flood stage (Joshua 3:15). • Location: The crossing likely occurred opposite the modern village of Tell el-Hammam, with Gilgal two miles west of the river. • Political climate: Canaanite city-states were on alert (Joshua 2:9–11), yet God brings Israel in unchallenged, underscoring His sovereignty. Archaeological Notes on the Jordan and Gilgal • Seasonal flooding can raise the Jordan 10–12 feet, turning the valley into a torrent—highlighting the scale of the miracle. • Gilgal means “circle of stones.” Excavations at several Gilgal-type sites reveal ancient stone circles and foot-shaped enclosures, matching the memorial concept. • A double-row stone circle at modern Gilgal-Argaman resembles a tribal boundary marker, hinting at the practice described here. The Twelve Stones: A Memorial of Covenant Faithfulness 1. Represent the twelve tribes, keeping unity central (Exodus 28:21; Revelation 21:12). 2. Tangible reminder of God’s power (Psalm 77:14–20). 3. Teaching tool: parents recount miracles, echoing Deuteronomy 6:20–25. 4. Encouragement for future battles—Israel will soon face Jericho (Joshua 6). Leadership Lessons from Joshua • Obedience first: Joshua waits for God’s word before moving (4:1). • Delegation: one leader per tribe involves the whole nation. • Visibility: Joshua’s own stone pile in the riverbed shows personal commitment. • Result: “They revered him all his days” (v. 14), fulfilling God’s promise (3:7). Priestly Ministry and the Ark • Priests stand “firm on dry ground” (4:3) until every Israelite crosses—a picture of intercession. • The ark, housing the covenant tablets, leads the way, pointing to God’s presence guiding His people (Exodus 25:22; Hebrews 9:4). • Parallel to Jesus, our High Priest, who stands between judgment and deliverance (Hebrews 7:25). Miraculous Crossing Compared to the Red Sea Similarities: • Water held back supernaturally (Exodus 14:21; Joshua 4:18). • Enemy morale collapses (Exodus 15:14-16; Joshua 2:9-11). Differences: • Red Sea delivers from slavery; Jordan delivers into promise. • At the Red Sea Moses stretches his staff; at the Jordan priests carry the ark, highlighting a move from prophetic leadership to priestly centrality. Connections to New Testament Themes • Crossing the Jordan mirrors baptism—leaving an old life for new (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12). • Twelve stones foreshadow the twelve apostles, foundational witnesses of God’s mighty act in Christ (Ephesians 2:20). • “That all the peoples of the earth may know” (Joshua 4:24) aligns with the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19). Teach It to the Children: Generational Impact • The narrative underscores verbal storytelling (v. 6). • Psalm 78:4–7 picks up the same charge—pass on “the praises of the LORD…so the next generation would know.” • Intentional memorials—songs, symbols, testimonies—anchor faith amid a changing culture. Application for Worship Today • Remember God’s past victories: keep journals, celebrate anniversaries of answered prayer. • Public monuments: church cornerstone plaques, communion tables, or banners can serve like Gilgal’s stones. • Corporate testimony: sharing accounts in community meetings mirrors Israel’s collective memory. Key Takeaways • God’s power makes a way where none exists. • Memorials matter—they preserve truth and inspire faith. • Leadership thrives on obedience and shared responsibility. • Every miracle has a missionary purpose: “that all the peoples of the earth may know the hand of the LORD.” Connections to Additional Scriptures Exodus 12:14 The Passover as a memorial of God's deliverance from Egypt. Psalm 77:11-12 The psalmist's commitment to remember the deeds of the Lord. 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 The Lord's Supper as a memorial of Christ's sacrifice. Hebrews 13:7 Remembering the faith of leaders who have gone before us. Teaching Points God's Command to Remember Joshua 4:1-3 describes God's instruction to take twelve stones from the Jordan River as a memorial. This act was meant to serve as a lasting reminder of God's power and faithfulness. The Role of Leadership Joshua, as a leader, obeys God's command and ensures the memorial is set up (Joshua 4:4-8). This highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding people to remember and honor God's works. Intergenerational Faith The memorial stones were intended to prompt future generations to ask about their significance, providing an opportunity to share God's mighty acts (Joshua 4:6-7). God's Faithfulness The crossing of the Jordan River on dry ground (Joshua 4:22-24) parallels the crossing of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's consistent faithfulness to His people. Practical Applications Create Personal Memorials Consider ways to create personal reminders of God's faithfulness in your life, such as journaling or setting up a physical reminder. Share Your Testimony Use opportunities to share your experiences of God's faithfulness with others, especially the younger generation. Reflect on God's Past Works Regularly take time to reflect on how God has worked in your life, strengthening your faith for future challenges. Follow Godly Leadership Seek and support leaders who prioritize remembering and honoring God's works. People 1. Joshua As the leader of the Israelites, Joshua is central to the events in this chapter. He is responsible for directing the people and carrying out God's commands regarding the crossing of the Jordan River and the setting up of memorial stones. The Hebrew name "Joshua" (יְהוֹשֻׁעַ, Yehoshua) means "The LORD is salvation." 2. The LORD (Yahweh) While not a human person, the presence and commands of the LORD are pivotal in this chapter. The LORD instructs Joshua on what to do with the stones from the Jordan River, emphasizing His role in the miraculous crossing and the importance of remembering His deeds. 3. The Twelve Men These are representatives from each of the twelve tribes of Israel. Joshua 4:4 states, "So Joshua summoned the twelve men he had appointed from the Israelites, one from each tribe." These men are tasked with carrying stones from the Jordan River to set up a memorial. 4. The Priests The priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant play a crucial role in the crossing of the Jordan River. Their presence in the riverbed is what allows the waters to be held back, enabling the Israelites to cross on dry ground. 5. The Israelites The collective group of the Israelite people is involved in the crossing of the Jordan River. They follow Joshua's leadership and witness the miraculous event, which serves to strengthen their faith and commitment to God. Places 1. Jordan River The Jordan River is the central geographical feature in Joshua 4. It is where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land. The river's waters were miraculously stopped, allowing the people to cross on dry ground. The Hebrew word for Jordan is "יַרְדֵּן" (Yarden), which means "descender," reflecting the river's descent from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. 2. Gilgal Gilgal is the place where the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River. It is here that Joshua set up twelve stones taken from the Jordan as a memorial. The name "Gilgal" (גִּלְגָּל) is thought to mean "circle" or "rolling," possibly referring to the circle of stones or the rolling away of the reproach of Egypt (Joshua 5:9). Events 1. Command to Take Twelve Stones The LORD instructs Joshua to choose twelve men, one from each tribe, to take twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan River where the priests stood with the Ark of the Covenant (Joshua 4:1-3). The Hebrew word for "stones" is "אֲבָנִים" (avanim), symbolizing a memorial. 2. Setting Up the Stones at Gilgal Joshua calls the twelve men and commands them to carry the stones to their lodging place and set them up as a memorial (Joshua 4:4-8). The stones serve as a sign for future generations to remember the miraculous crossing. 3. Joshua Sets Up Additional Stones Joshua sets up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan where the priests stood, which remain there as a testimony (Joshua 4:9). This act emphasizes the significance of the location and the miracle. 4. Completion of the Crossing The people finish crossing the Jordan, and the priests carrying the Ark come up from the riverbed (Joshua 4:10-11). The Hebrew term "עָבַר" (avar) for "crossing" highlights the transition from wilderness to the Promised Land. 5. The Tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh These tribes, armed for battle, cross over before the Israelites as Moses had directed (Joshua 4:12-13). This fulfills their commitment to assist in conquering the land. 6. The LORD Exalts Joshua On that day, the LORD exalts Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they revere him as they revered Moses (Joshua 4:14). The Hebrew root "גָּדַל" (gadal) for "exalt" signifies Joshua's established leadership. 7. Return of the Ark and Priests The LORD commands Joshua to instruct the priests to come up from the Jordan, and as they do, the waters return to their place (Joshua 4:15-18). This marks the end of the miraculous event. 8. Camp at Gilgal The people camp at Gilgal on the eastern border of Jericho, where Joshua sets up the twelve stones taken from the Jordan (Joshua 4:19-20). "Gilgal" in Hebrew means "circle," possibly referring to the circle of stones. 9. Purpose of the Stones Explained Joshua explains to the Israelites that the stones are to serve as a memorial for future generations to remember how the LORD dried up the Jordan, just as He did the Red Sea (Joshua 4:21-24). The Hebrew word "זִכָּרוֹן" (zikaron) for "memorial" underscores the importance of remembrance. Lessons from Joshua 4 1. Remembering God's Faithfulness In Joshua 4, the Israelites set up twelve stones as a memorial after crossing the Jordan River. This act was a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and His mighty hand in delivering them. "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever" (Joshua 4:7). In our lives, it's crucial to create our own "memorials" to remember God's past faithfulness, which strengthens our faith for future challenges. 2. Passing Down the Story The stones were not just for the current generation but for future ones. "When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’" (Joshua 4:21). Sharing stories of God's work in our lives with the next generation is vital. It keeps the faith alive and ensures that the legacy of God's goodness is passed down. 3. Obedience Leads to Miracles The Israelites' obedience to God's command to cross the Jordan led to a miraculous event. "The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firmly on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan" (Joshua 4:18). When we obey God's instructions, we open the door for Him to work wonders in our lives. 4. Leadership and Unity Joshua's leadership was crucial in guiding the Israelites. His ability to unite the people under God's command was key to their success. "The LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel" (Joshua 4:14). Effective leadership, rooted in God's guidance, fosters unity and purpose among His people. 5. God's Timing is Perfect The crossing of the Jordan happened at the exact moment God intended. "The waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD" (Joshua 4:7). Trusting in God's perfect timing can be challenging, but His plans are always for our good and His glory. 6. The Power of Testimony The stones served as a testimony to all the peoples of the earth. "He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful" (Joshua 4:24). Our testimonies of God's work in our lives can inspire and draw others to Him, showcasing His power and love. 7. Preparation for the Promised Land Crossing the Jordan was a step towards claiming the Promised Land. It required preparation and faith. "The people hurried over" (Joshua 4:10). In our journey, preparation and faith are essential as we move towards the promises God has for us. 8. God's Presence is Central The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence, was central to the crossing. "The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD" (Joshua 4:10). Keeping God at the center of our lives ensures that we are guided by His wisdom and strength. 9. Celebrating Milestones The Israelites celebrated their crossing with the memorial stones. Celebrating milestones in our spiritual journey is important. It acknowledges God's role in our achievements and encourages us to continue trusting Him. 10. Faith in Action The entire event of crossing the Jordan was an act of faith. "The people crossed over opposite Jericho" (Joshua 4:13). Faith is not passive; it requires action. When we step out in faith, we allow God to work through us in extraordinary ways. Topics 1. Command to Take Twelve Stones (Joshua 4:1-3) After the entire nation had crossed the Jordan, the LORD instructed Joshua to choose twelve men, one from each tribe, to take twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan. This act was to serve as a memorial for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "memorial" is "זִכָּרוֹן" (zikaron), which signifies a reminder or remembrance. 2. Setting Up the Stones at Gilgal (Joshua 4:4-8) Joshua called the twelve men and instructed them to carry the stones to their camp at Gilgal. This was to be a lasting memorial for future generations. The stones were to remind the Israelites of the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River. 3. Joshua Sets Up Twelve Stones in the Jordan (Joshua 4:9) Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan at the spot where the priests stood with the Ark of the Covenant. This act symbolized the presence and power of God during the crossing. 4. Completion of the Crossing (Joshua 4:10-13) The priests carrying the Ark remained in the middle of the Jordan until everything the LORD commanded Joshua was completed. The people hurried across, and the armed men from the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh led the way, as they had promised Moses. 5. The LORD Exalts Joshua (Joshua 4:14) On that day, the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they revered him as they had revered Moses. The Hebrew word for "exalted" is "גָּדַל" (gadal), meaning to make great or magnify. 6. The Priests Come Up from the Jordan (Joshua 4:15-18) The LORD commanded Joshua to instruct the priests to come up from the Jordan. As soon as the priests set their feet on dry ground, the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed its banks as before. 7. The Stones Set Up at Gilgal (Joshua 4:19-24) The people camped at Gilgal on the eastern border of Jericho. Joshua set up the twelve stones taken from the Jordan there. He explained to the Israelites that these stones would serve as a sign for future generations to remember how the LORD dried up the Jordan, just as He did the Red Sea, so that all the peoples of the earth might know the hand of the LORD is mighty. Themes 1. Memorialization of God's Miracles Joshua 4 emphasizes the importance of remembering God's miraculous acts. The Israelites are instructed to set up twelve stones as a memorial after crossing the Jordan River. This act serves as a tangible reminder of God's power and faithfulness. The Hebrew word for "memorial" (זִכָּרוֹן, zikkaron) underscores the importance of remembrance in the faith journey. 2. Intergenerational Faith Transmission The passage highlights the responsibility of passing down faith to future generations. In Joshua 4:6-7, the stones are meant to prompt questions from children, providing opportunities for parents to recount God's deeds. This theme underscores the biblical mandate for teaching and sharing faith with the next generation. 3. Obedience to Divine Command The Israelites' obedience to God's instructions through Joshua is a central theme. Joshua 4:8 states, "Thus the Israelites did as Joshua had commanded." This obedience reflects a trust in God's leadership and a commitment to follow His directives, which is foundational in a covenant relationship with God. 4. Unity Among God's People The collective action of the twelve tribes in setting up the stones signifies unity among the people of Israel. Each tribe's participation symbolizes their shared identity and purpose under God's covenant. This theme is crucial for understanding the communal aspect of faith and the importance of unity in fulfilling God's plans. 5. God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness The crossing of the Jordan River and the subsequent memorial serve as a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Joshua 4:23-24 highlights that just as God parted the Red Sea, He also stopped the Jordan's flow, demonstrating His unchanging power and commitment to His promises. The Hebrew root for "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) reflects trustworthiness and reliability, attributes of God celebrated in this chapter. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Faithfulness Thank God for His past faithfulness and the ways He has worked in your life. Guidance in Creating Memorials Ask for wisdom in establishing meaningful reminders of God's work in your life. Boldness in Sharing Testimonies Pray for courage to share your experiences of God's faithfulness with others. Strength for Godly Leaders Pray for strength and wisdom for leaders in the church to guide others in remembering and honoring God. As we study Joshua 4, may we be inspired to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness, ensuring that His mighty works are never forgotten. Answering Tough Questions 1. Joshua 4:1–9: How can we verify the miraculous nature of stopping the Jordan and gathering stones without historical or scientific proof? 2. Joshua 4:14: Is there any evidence outside the Bible supporting Joshua’s swift rise in status comparable to Moses? 3. Joshua 4:18: Does the river’s instantaneous return defy known natural processes, suggesting a contradiction with scientific norms? 4. Joshua 4:20: If the memorial at Gilgal was significant, why does no clear archaeological evidence support its existence? 5. Joshua 4:1–24: How do we reconcile this account with conflicting timelines or details in other biblical narratives? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What is the significance of the twelve stones taken from the Jordan River? 2. How do you understand the role of the stones as a "memorial to the Israelites forever"? 3. What does this passage teach us about the importance of remembering God's miracles and blessings? 4. How can we create "memorials" in our own lives to remember God's faithfulness? 5. What does the act of the priests standing in the middle of the Jordan signify about their faith and obedience? 6. How can we apply the concept of 'crossing over' into challenges we face in our daily lives? 7. How does the miracle of crossing the Jordan River on dry ground parallel the earlier crossing of the Red Sea, and what does this teach us about God’s unchanging nature? 8. What does the phrase "the hand of the LORD is mighty" mean to you personally and how have you seen it manifest in your life? 9. Why was it important that each tribe have a representative carry a stone? 10. What is the significance of Joshua setting up twelve stones at Gilgal? 11. How does the exaltation of Joshua by the LORD and the reverence shown by the Israelites parallel leadership roles in modern day church? 12. How can we effectively answer questions about our faith and experiences when asked, as the Israelites were instructed to do when asked about the stones? 13. How does the crossing of the armed troops reflect our readiness for spiritual warfare? 14. How can the return of the waters of the Jordan once the ark and priests had crossed serve as a metaphor for the restoration or challenges in our lives? 15. Why do you think it was important for the stones to be taken from the middle of the Jordan, where the priests were standing? 16. How can the phrase "the waters of the Jordan returned to their course and overflowed all the banks as before" serve as a reminder of the power of God? 17. How does the LORD's command to "always fear the LORD your God" apply in our present context? 18. In what ways can we bear witness, like the stones, to the mighty works of God in our lives to future generations? 19. How does the reverence shown to Joshua teach us about respect for God-appointed leaders in today's society? 20. How can the journey of the Israelites inspire us when we are faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges in our lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions