Joshua 5:7

And Joshua raised up their sons in their place, and these were the ones he circumcised. Until this time they were still uncircumcised, since they had not been circumcised along the way.

Study Bible

And He raised up their sons in their place
This phrase signifies God's sovereign plan and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. The Hebrew root for "raised up" is "קוּם" (qum), which means to establish or set up. This reflects God's active role in ensuring the continuity of His people despite the previous generation's disobedience. Historically, this transition marks a new beginning for Israel, as the sons are prepared to inherit the Promised Land, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham.

and these were the ones Joshua circumcised
Circumcision is a critical covenantal sign between God and His people, originating with Abraham. The Hebrew word for circumcise is "מוּל" (mul), which means to cut or to circumcise. This act by Joshua is not merely a physical ritual but a profound spiritual renewal, symbolizing the people's recommitment to God. It underscores the importance of obedience and purity before entering the Promised Land, aligning with the conservative Christian view of the necessity of spiritual readiness and consecration.

They were still uncircumcised
This phrase highlights the neglect of the covenantal sign during the wilderness journey. The Hebrew word "עָרֵל" (arel) means uncircumcised, often used metaphorically in Scripture to denote spiritual unpreparedness or rebellion. The wilderness generation's failure to circumcise their sons reflects their broader disobedience and lack of faith, serving as a cautionary tale for believers about the consequences of neglecting God's commands.

because they had not been circumcised on the way
The journey "on the way" from Egypt to Canaan was marked by trials and divine discipline. The phrase underscores the transitional period of Israel's history, where the focus was on survival and learning dependence on God. The lack of circumcision during this time can be seen as a reflection of the people's spiritual state, emphasizing the need for renewal and recommitment before entering the land of promise. This serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual practices and obedience in the life of faith, resonating with the conservative Christian emphasis on living a life set apart for God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in this passage, responsible for circumcising the new generation.

2. The Israelites
Specifically, the new generation of Israelites who were born during the 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. They had not been circumcised during the journey.

3. The Wilderness
The place where the Israelites wandered for 40 years due to their disobedience and lack of faith. It represents a period of testing and preparation.

4. Circumcision
A covenantal sign given to Abraham and his descendants, symbolizing their unique relationship with God. It was a physical act with deep spiritual significance.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants. The Israelites are on the brink of entering this land, fulfilling God's promise.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The act of circumcision was a direct command from God, and Joshua's obedience in circumcising the new generation demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions, even when they seem difficult or inconvenient.

Spiritual Preparation
Just as the Israelites needed to be circumcised before entering the Promised Land, believers today must prepare their hearts spiritually to enter into the promises God has for them.

Generational Faithfulness
The new generation had to take on the covenantal sign for themselves, showing that each generation must personally commit to following God and His ways.

Symbolism of Circumcision
While circumcision was a physical act, it symbolized a deeper spiritual truth—the need for purity, dedication, and separation unto God. Believers are called to live lives that reflect these values.

God's Faithfulness
Despite the failures of the previous generation, God remained faithful to His promise, raising up a new generation to fulfill His purposes. This encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness, even when circumstances seem bleak.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of circumcision represent in the context of the covenant between God and His people, and how can this be applied to our spiritual lives today?

2. How does the obedience of Joshua in circumcising the new generation reflect the importance of leadership in guiding others to follow God's commands?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our faith is passed down to the next generation, as seen in the transition from the wilderness generation to the new generation entering the Promised Land?

4. How does the concept of a "circumcised heart" in Deuteronomy and Romans challenge us to examine our own spiritual condition?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness despite difficult circumstances. How does this encourage you to trust Him with future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 17
This chapter details God's covenant with Abraham, where circumcision is established as a sign of the covenant. It provides the foundational understanding of why circumcision was necessary for the Israelites.

Exodus 12
This passage discusses the requirements for participating in the Passover, including the necessity of circumcision, highlighting its importance in the community of God's people.

Deuteronomy 10
Here, Moses speaks of the need for a circumcised heart, pointing to the deeper spiritual significance beyond the physical act.

Romans 2
Paul discusses the concept of circumcision of the heart, emphasizing that true belonging to God's people is a matter of the heart and spirit, not just physical rituals.