◄ Joshua 5 ►
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The Circumcision and Passover at Gilgal 1Now when all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings along the coasta heard how the LORD had dried up the waters of the Jordan before the Israelites until they had crossed over,b their hearts melted and their spirits failed for fear of the Israelites. 2At that time the LORD said to Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel once again.c” 3So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth.d 4Now this is why Joshua circumcised them: All those who came out of Egypt—all the men of war—had died on the journey in the wilderness after they had left Egypt. 5Though all who had come out were circumcised, none of those born in the wilderness on the journey from Egypt had been circumcised. 6For the Israelites had wandered in the wilderness forty years, until all the nation’s men of war who had come out of Egypt had died, since they did not obey the LORD. So the LORD vowed never to let them see the land He had sworn to their fathers to give us, a land flowing with milk and honey. 7And He raised up their sons in their place, and these were the ones Joshua circumcised. Until this time they were still uncircumcised, since they had not been circumcised along the way. 8And after all the nation had been circumcised, they stayed there in the camp until they were healed. 9Then the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” So that place has been called Gilgale to this day. 10On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while the Israelites were camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, they kept the Passover. 11The day after the Passover, on that very day, they ate unleavened bread and roasted grain from the produce of the land. 12And the day after they had eaten from the produce of the land, the manna ceased. There was no more manna for the Israelites, so that year they began to eat the crops of the land of Canaan. The Commander of the LORD’s Army 13Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in His hand. Joshua approached Him and asked, “Are You for us or for our enemies?” 14“Neither,” He replied. “I have now come as Commander of the LORD’s army.” Then Joshua fell facedown in reverencef and asked Him, “What does my Lord have to say to His servant?” 15The Commander of the LORD’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so. Footnotes: 1 a That is, along the Mediterranean coast; literally along the sea 1 b Or until we had crossed over 2 c Literally again the second time 3 d Gibeath-haaraloth means the hill of the foreskins. 9 e Gilgal sounds like the Hebrew for roll. 14 f Or and paid homage or and worshiped 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 5 Summary The Circumcision and Passover at Gilgal Verses 1 – Dread Falls on the Canaanites News of the Jordan miracle reaches the Amorite and Canaanite kings. Their courage evaporates, leaving Jericho and its allies paralyzed with fear. Verses 2–9 – Covenant Sign Restored at Gilgal God commands Joshua to circumcise the wilderness-born generation. The rite removes “the disgrace of Egypt,” renewing national identity and loyalty to the LORD. Verses 10–12 – First Passover in the Land; Manna Ends Israel keeps Passover on the plains of Jericho. The day after, they eat Canaan’s produce. Manna, God’s wilderness food, ceases—new provision for a new season. Verses 13–15 – Joshua Meets the Commander of the LORD’s Army Near Jericho, Joshua encounters a sword-drawn Man who identifies Himself as Commander of the LORD’s army. Joshua worships; holy ground commands reverence. Joshua Chapter 5 presents a significant transition for the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land, renew their covenant with God through circumcision, and celebrate their first Passover in Canaan. Joshua's encounter with the divine commander of the Lord's Army underscores the divine support and guidance in this new phase of their journey. Historical Setting: From Wilderness to Gilgal After forty years, Israel has finally crossed the Jordan. Gilgal (“circle” or “rolling”) lies two miles northeast of Jericho on the flood-plain, perfect for staging the conquest’s opening battle. Camped on freshly harvested grain fields, the nation pauses for spiritual preparation rather than rushing into combat. Archaeological Insights: Gilgal and Stone Monuments • Excavations in the Jordan Valley have revealed several footprint-shaped, stone-lined enclosures dated to the Late Bronze–Early Iron transition. Scholars link these to early Israelite “gilgal” camp-sites (Joshua 4:19). • The Hebrew verb “galal” (“roll”) in Joshua 5:9 fits both the circular camp shape and the act of rolling away Egypt’s shame. • Jericho’s ruins (Tell es-Sultan) show collapsed walls and a burned layer from roughly the Late Bronze period—consistent with the upcoming events of Joshua 6. Covenant Sign Reinstated: Circumcision 1. Reason for Delay – Exodus 4:24-26 hints at Moses’ own lapse, showing how easily the rite could be neglected. – In the wilderness, constant movement and warfare made surgery risky (Joshua 5:4-5). 2. Meaning – Genesis 17:10-14 established circumcision as a visible mark of belonging to God’s promise to Abraham. – It also pictured the cutting away of sin’s stubbornness (Deuteronomy 10:16; Romans 2:28-29). 3. Gilgal’s Message – Joshua 5:9: “Today I have rolled away from you the reproach of Egypt.” The past is cut off; a new life in covenant obedience begins. – Colossians 2:11-12 connects spiritual circumcision with identification in Christ. Passover in the Land: First Feast on Canaan Soil • Date: 14th day of the first month—the exact anniversary of Exodus deliverance (Exodus 12:6). • New Menu: “The day after the Passover, they ate from the produce of the land, unleavened bread and roasted grain” (Joshua 5:11). • Spiritual Echoes: 1 Corinthians 5:7 calls Christ “our Passover lamb,” tying this meal to the greater redemption that would come centuries later. • Rhythm of Provision: God never left His people hungry. Manna for the desert, grain for the land—Philippians 4:19 affirms the same principle. End of the Manna: Stepping into Normal Provision For forty years manna fell daily except Sabbaths (Exodus 16). Its end signals: – Promise fulfilled: wilderness faith becomes settled stewardship. – Responsibility transferred: Israel must now farm, harvest, and trust God in ordinary labor (Deuteronomy 8:7-10). – A precedent: God sometimes removes extraordinary aid to grow mature faith (compare Elijah’s brook drying up, 1 Kings 17:7). Commander of the LORD’s Army: Divine Encounter 1. Text Snapshot “Joshua went up to Him and asked, ‘Are You for us or for our enemies?’ ‘Neither,’ He replied. ‘I have now come as Commander of the LORD’s army.’” (Joshua 5:13-14). 2. Identity Clues – Accepts worship (v. 14), unlike angels who refuse it (Revelation 19:10). – Declares the ground holy (v. 15), echoing the burning bush encounter (Exodus 3:5). – Many see a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, leading His people into battle. 3. Purpose – Reassures Joshua that the battle is the LORD’s (Psalm 24:8). – Places Joshua in a submissive role; human leadership must yield to divine strategy. Interwoven Themes Across Scripture • Fear of Nations: Exodus 15:14-16 predicted terror among Canaanites—the timing is exact. • Covenant Renewal: Deuteronomy 30:6 foretells God circumcising hearts; Gilgal previews inward change. • Passover & Promised Land: Hebrews 4:1-11 links entering rest with trusting obedience. • Divine Warrior Motif: Isaiah 59:17 and Revelation 19:11-16 show the LORD as armored champion, matching Joshua’s Commander. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • God clears the way before His people; opposition often melts long before we arrive. • Obedience precedes victory—surgery at Gilgal came before swords at Jericho. • Past provision prepares us for future responsibility; manna ends so harvest can begin. • Encounter with God recalibrates our loyalties; the ultimate question isn’t whether He is on our side, but whether we are on His. Key Berean Standard Bible Verses Joshua 5:1 ‑ Hearts melted. Joshua 5:9 ‑ “Today I have rolled away from you the reproach of Egypt.” Joshua 5:12 ‑ “The manna ceased the day after they ate from the produce of the land.” Joshua 5:14 ‑ “As Commander of the LORD’s army I have now come.” Connections to Additional Scriptures Covenant Renewal Genesis 17:10-11 discusses the covenant of circumcision with Abraham, highlighting its significance as a sign of God's promises. Passover Significance Exodus 12:14-17 provides the original instructions for Passover, underscoring its role in remembering God's deliverance. God's Provision Philippians 4:19 assures us of God's provision, encouraging us to trust Him in all circumstances. Holiness and Reverence Hebrews 12:28-29 calls us to worship God with reverence and awe, recognizing His consuming fire. Teaching Points Renewal of Covenant through Circumcision Joshua 5:2-9 describes how God commanded Joshua to circumcise the new generation of Israelites. This act was a renewal of the covenant between God and His people, signifying their commitment and obedience to Him. Observance of the Passover In Joshua 5:10, the Israelites celebrated the Passover in the plains of Jericho. This was the first Passover in the Promised Land, symbolizing God's deliverance and faithfulness. Cessation of Manna Joshua 5:12 notes that the manna ceased after they ate the produce of the land. This transition marked a new phase of reliance on God's provision through the land He promised. Encounter with the Commander of the LORD’s Army Joshua 5:13-15 describes Joshua's encounter with a divine figure, emphasizing the holiness of the mission and the need for reverence and submission to God's authority. Practical Applications Spiritual Preparation Just as the Israelites prepared through circumcision and Passover, we must prepare our hearts and lives for the tasks God sets before us. Renewal of Commitment Regularly renew your commitment to God, remembering His faithfulness and promises. Trust in God's Provision Transition from relying on past provisions to trusting God for new ways He will provide in your life. Reverence for God's Presence Approach your spiritual journey with reverence, acknowledging God's holiness and authority in your life. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the central figure in this chapter. He is the leader of the Israelites, succeeding Moses, and is responsible for guiding the people into the Promised Land. His name in Hebrew, יְהוֹשֻׁעַ (Yehoshua), means "The LORD is salvation." 2. The Commander of the LORD’s Army This mysterious figure appears to Joshua near Jericho. He is described as a divine being, often interpreted as a theophany or a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. The Hebrew term used is שַׂר־צְבָא־יְהוָה (sar-tzeva-YHWH), meaning "commander of the army of the LORD." Places 1. Jordan River The chapter begins with the Israelites having crossed the Jordan River. This river is significant as it represents the boundary that the Israelites crossed to enter the Promised Land. The crossing of the Jordan is a pivotal moment in Israelite history, symbolizing a transition from the wilderness into the land God promised to Abraham and his descendants. 2. Gilgal This is the place where the Israelites camped after crossing the Jordan River. In Joshua 5:9, it is mentioned that the LORD said to Joshua, "Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you." Therefore, the place was called Gilgal, which is derived from the Hebrew root "galal," meaning "to roll." Gilgal becomes a significant site for the Israelites, serving as their first encampment in the Promised Land and a place of renewal and covenant. Events 1. Fear of the Canaanite Kings The kings of the Amorites and Canaanites hear about the drying up of the Jordan River and their hearts melt in fear. ^Scripture Reference^: "Now when all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings along the coast heard how the LORD had dried up the waters of the Jordan before the Israelites until they had crossed over, their hearts melted and they lost all courage to face the Israelites." (Joshua 5:1) 2. Circumcision at Gilgal God commands Joshua to circumcise the Israelite males who were born in the wilderness, as the previous generation had died. ^Scripture Reference^: "At that time the LORD said to Joshua, 'Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel once again.'" (Joshua 5:2) ^Hebrew Root^: The term "circumcise" (מול, ^mul^) signifies the covenantal act of cutting, symbolizing Israel's renewed commitment to God. 3. The Reason for Circumcision The narrative explains that the new generation had not been circumcised during the journey in the wilderness. ^Scripture Reference^: "This is why Joshua circumcised them: All those who came out of Egypt—the men of war—had died on the journey in the wilderness after they had left Egypt." (Joshua 5:4) 4. Healing After Circumcision The Israelites remain in their camp until they recover from the circumcision. ^Scripture Reference^: "And after all the nation had been circumcised, they stayed there in the camp until they were healed." (Joshua 5:8) 5. The Name Gilgal God declares that He has rolled away the reproach of Egypt from the Israelites, and the place is named Gilgal. ^Scripture Reference^: "Then the LORD said to Joshua, 'Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.' So that place has been called Gilgal to this day." (Joshua 5:9) ^Hebrew Root^: "Gilgal" (גִּלְגָּל, ^Gilgal^) is derived from the root ^galal^ (גָּלַל), meaning "to roll." 6. Celebration of Passover The Israelites celebrate the Passover on the plains of Jericho. ^Scripture Reference^: "On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, the Israelites kept the Passover." (Joshua 5:10) 7. Eating the Produce of the Land The day after Passover, the Israelites eat unleavened bread and roasted grain from the land. ^Scripture Reference^: "The day after the Passover, on that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land: unleavened bread and roasted grain." (Joshua 5:11) 8. Cessation of Manna The manna ceases after the Israelites eat the produce of Canaan, marking a new phase of reliance on the land. ^Scripture Reference^: "The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land, and there was no longer any manna for the Israelites, but that year they ate the produce of the land of Canaan." (Joshua 5:12) 9. The Commander of the LORD’s Army Joshua encounters a divine figure identified as the commander of the LORD’s army, and he worships Him. ^Scripture Reference^: "Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, 'Are you for us or for our enemies?'" (Joshua 5:13) ^Scripture Reference^: "The commander of the LORD’s army replied, 'Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.' And Joshua did so." (Joshua 5:15) Lessons from Joshua 5 1. Embrace New Beginnings with Faith Joshua 5 marks a pivotal moment for the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land. This chapter reminds us that new beginnings are opportunities to trust in God's promises. Just as the Israelites had to step into the unknown, we too can embrace change with confidence, knowing that "the LORD your God is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Let this be a reminder to face new challenges with faith, trusting in God's guidance. 2. Renew Your Commitment to God In Joshua 5, the Israelites renew their covenant with God through circumcision. This act symbolizes a fresh commitment to follow God's commands. In our lives, it's essential to regularly renew our dedication to God, ensuring our hearts are aligned with His will. As it is written, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you" (Joshua 3:5). Renewing our commitment keeps us ready for the wonders God has in store. 3. Celebrate God's Faithfulness The Israelites celebrated Passover in the Promised Land, a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness in delivering them from Egypt. Celebrating God's past faithfulness strengthens our faith for the future. "Remember the wonders He has done, His marvels, and the judgments He has pronounced" (1 Chronicles 16:12). Take time to reflect on and celebrate the ways God has been faithful in your life. 4. Trust in God's Provision As the Israelites entered the Promised Land, the manna ceased, and they began to eat the produce of the land. This transition teaches us to trust in God's provision, even when it comes in unexpected ways. "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). Trust that God will provide for you in every season of life. 5. Recognize God's Presence in Your Life Joshua encounters the commander of the LORD's army, a powerful reminder of God's presence. This encounter teaches us to be aware of God's presence in our daily lives. "The LORD your God is in your midst, a mighty Savior" (Zephaniah 3:17). Recognizing God's presence brings peace and assurance, knowing that we are never alone. 6. Obey God's Instructions Joshua's encounter with the commander of the LORD's army emphasizes the importance of obedience. When God gives instructions, our response should be immediate and wholehearted obedience. "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Obedience to God leads to blessings and success in our endeavors. 7. Prepare for Spiritual Battles The Israelites were about to face the fortified city of Jericho. Joshua 5 reminds us to prepare for spiritual battles by aligning ourselves with God's will. "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can make your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:11). Spiritual preparation is key to overcoming the challenges we face. 8. Stand on Holy Ground When Joshua meets the commander of the LORD's army, he is told to remove his sandals because he is standing on holy ground. This moment teaches us to recognize and respect the sacred moments in our lives. "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). Take time to pause and acknowledge the holy ground in your life, where God is at work. 9. Be Courageous in God's Strength Joshua 5 encourages us to be courageous, knowing that God is our strength. As the Israelites prepared to conquer Jericho, they relied on God's power, not their own. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). Let God's strength embolden you to face any challenge. 10. Anticipate God's Miracles The chapter sets the stage for the miraculous fall of Jericho. It reminds us to anticipate God's miracles in our lives. "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us" (Ephesians 3:20). Live with expectation, knowing that God is capable of doing the impossible. Topics 1. The Fear of the Canaanite Kings (Joshua 5:1) The chapter begins with the reaction of the Amorite and Canaanite kings upon hearing that the LORD had dried up the Jordan River for the Israelites. Their hearts melted, and they lost courage. This highlights the power and presence of God with Israel, as the Hebrew word "מָסַס" (masas) is used to describe their hearts melting. 2. Circumcision at Gilgal (Joshua 5:2-9) God commands Joshua to circumcise the new generation of Israelites born in the wilderness. This act renews the covenant sign given to Abraham. The Hebrew word "גִּלְגָּל" (Gilgal) is significant as it means "rolling," symbolizing the rolling away of the reproach of Egypt from the Israelites. 3. The Passover Celebrated (Joshua 5:10-12) The Israelites celebrate Passover on the plains of Jericho. This marks their first Passover in the Promised Land, signifying a new beginning and fulfillment of God's promises. The cessation of manna and the beginning of eating the produce of Canaan is a pivotal moment, indicating a transition from wilderness provision to the abundance of the Promised Land. 4. The Commander of the LORD’s Army (Joshua 5:13-15) Joshua encounters a mysterious figure identified as the commander of the LORD's army. This encounter emphasizes the divine support and leadership in the upcoming battles. The Hebrew term "צְבָא" (tsaba) for "army" underscores the heavenly host's involvement in Israel's conquest. Themes 1. Divine Preparation and Obedience In Joshua 5, the Israelites are prepared by God for the conquest of Canaan. This preparation involves the circumcision of the new generation of Israelites, as commanded by God. The act of circumcision is a sign of the covenant between God and His people, emphasizing obedience to God's commands. The Hebrew word for circumcision, "מִילָה" (milah), signifies a cutting away, symbolizing the removal of the old self and dedication to God. Joshua 5:2 states, "At that time the LORD said to Joshua, 'Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel once again.'" 2. Renewal of Covenant The renewal of the covenant is a central theme, as the Israelites reaffirm their commitment to God through the act of circumcision. This renewal is significant as it marks the end of their reproach in Egypt and the beginning of a new chapter in the Promised Land. Joshua 5:9 says, "Then the LORD said to Joshua, 'Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.' So that place has been called Gilgal to this day." The Hebrew word "גִּלְגָּל" (Gilgal) means "rolling," symbolizing the removal of disgrace. 3. Celebration of Passover The Israelites celebrate Passover in the Promised Land, which is a reminder of God's deliverance from Egypt. This celebration signifies the continuity of God's faithfulness and the importance of remembering His past acts of salvation. Joshua 5:10 states, "On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, the Israelites kept the Passover." 4. Provision and Transition The cessation of manna and the beginning of eating the produce of Canaan highlight God's provision and the transition from wilderness wandering to settling in the Promised Land. This change signifies a new phase of reliance on God's provision through the land He promised. Joshua 5:12 notes, "The manna ceased the day after they ate the produce of the land, and the Israelites no longer had manna; they ate from the produce of the land of Canaan that year." 5. Divine Encounter and Leadership Joshua's encounter with the Commander of the LORD's army underscores the theme of divine leadership and guidance. This encounter emphasizes that the battle belongs to the Lord and that Joshua's leadership is under divine authority. Joshua 5:14-15 records, "Neither,' he replied, 'I have now come as commander of the LORD’s army.' Then Joshua fell facedown in reverence and asked him, 'What does my Lord have to say to His servant?' The commander of the LORD’s army replied, 'Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.' And Joshua did so." The Hebrew word for "commander," "שַׂר" (sar), indicates a leader or prince, highlighting the divine authority present. Prayer Points Commitment to God Pray for a renewed commitment to God and His covenant in your life. Spiritual Readiness Ask God to prepare your heart for the tasks and challenges ahead. Trust in Provision Seek God's guidance in trusting His provision and timing in your life. Reverence and Submission Pray for a heart that reveres God's presence and submits to His authority. As we reflect on Joshua 5, may we be inspired to prepare ourselves spiritually for the victories God has in store, trusting in His faithfulness and provision. Answering Tough Questions 1. Joshua 5:2–7: How could an entire fighting force undergo circumcision en masse without any health risks or attack from nearby enemies? 2. Joshua 5:9: Is there any historical or archaeological evidence that this site, Gilgal, was ever known or marked as the place where Israel’s “disgrace” was removed? 3. Joshua 5:10–12: How plausible is it that the manna stopped immediately once the Israelites ate the produce of the land, with no transition period? 4. Joshua 5:13–15: What evidence supports a divine “commander” appearing to Joshua, and how does this align with other biblical accounts of angelic encounters? 5. Joshua 5:6: Why is there no clear historical record or archaeological proof of the Israelites wandering for forty years with little to no mention of such a large movement outside the biblical text? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the fear of the Amorite and Canaanite kings reveal the power of God’s actions? 2. How might the act of circumcision act as a symbol of commitment and renewal in this context? 3. Why do you think Joshua needed to circumcise the sons of Israel again? How does this relate to spiritual rebirth or renewal? 4. What do you make of the fact that those born in the wilderness were not initially circumcised? What does this say about the relationship between faith, obedience, and rituals? 5. How does the phrase "their hearts melted and their spirits failed" demonstrate the psychological impact of God's miracles? 6. In what ways do we see God disciplining the Israelites for their disobedience? How does this apply to us today? 7. What significance does the healing period after circumcision hold in terms of spiritual rest and preparation? 8. How does the cessation of the manna reflect on the change of the Israelites' situation? 9. What does the phrase “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you” symbolize in terms of spiritual liberation and moving forward? 10. Why was the Passover celebrated in the new land and how does this celebration reflect the faithfulness of God? 11. How can we interpret Joshua's encounter with the Commander of the LORD’s army in terms of recognizing divine authority? 12. How does the cessation of manna and the beginning of eating the crops of the land symbolize transition and dependence on God’s provision? 13. What can we learn from Joshua's immediate obedience when he's told to remove his sandals? 14. How does the act of Joshua falling facedown in reverence apply to our approach to God in prayer and worship? 15. Why do you think the figure Joshua encounters identifies as neither for Joshua nor his enemies? 16. How does this passage demonstrate the balance between God's provision (like manna), and the necessity for human effort (eating the produce of the land)? 17. How does this passage contribute to our understanding of God’s guidance throughout the transition periods in our lives? 18. How does "the place where you are standing is holy" change our perspective of encountering God in our everyday lives? 19. How does the story of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness and then finally entering the promised land mirror our spiritual journeys? 20. How can the concept of being circumcised "again" apply to our spiritual lives in terms of repentance and restoration? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions