Joshua 6:11

So he had the ark of the LORD carried around the city, circling it once. And the people returned to the camp and spent the night there.

Study Bible

So he had the ark of the LORD
The "ark of the LORD" refers to the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. In Hebrew, "ark" is "aron," meaning a chest or box. The Ark symbolized God's presence among His people and was central to Israel's worship and identity. Its presence in this military campaign underscores the belief that victory comes not by human might but by divine intervention. The Ark's involvement in the battle of Jericho highlights the necessity of faith and obedience to God's commands.

circle the city
The act of circling the city is a strategic and symbolic gesture. In Hebrew, the word for "circle" is "sabab," which can mean to go around or encompass. This action was not a typical military maneuver but a divine directive, emphasizing that the battle was spiritual rather than physical. The circling of Jericho was a demonstration of faith, as the Israelites followed God's unusual instructions, trusting in His promise of victory.

going around it once
The phrase "going around it once" indicates the daily routine for six days. This repetition signifies perseverance and obedience. The number six in biblical numerology often represents human effort, which is incomplete without divine intervention. The Israelites' daily march around Jericho was a test of their patience and faith, as they awaited God's timing for the walls to fall.

And they returned to the camp
Returning to the camp each day after circling the city suggests a rhythm of action and rest. The camp was a place of community, worship, and reflection. This routine allowed the Israelites to maintain their focus on God, reinforcing their dependence on Him rather than their own strength. It also provided time for spiritual preparation and unity among the people.

and spent the night there
Spending the night in the camp implies a period of rest and renewal. In the Hebrew context, night is often a time for reflection and seeking God's guidance. This nightly return to the camp symbolizes trust in God's protection and provision. It also highlights the importance of rest in the rhythm of spiritual warfare, reminding believers that true strength comes from reliance on God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites, who succeeded Moses and led the people into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in the conquest of Jericho.

2. The Ark of the LORD
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence among His people. It played a crucial role in the Israelites' spiritual and military endeavors.

3. The City of Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, known for its strong walls. It was the first city conquered by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, chosen to inherit the Promised Land. They followed Joshua's leadership in obedience to God's commands.

5. The Priests
Those who carried the Ark of the LORD, signifying their role as mediators between God and the people.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' success at Jericho was contingent upon their strict adherence to God's commands. This teaches us the importance of obedience in our spiritual journey.

The Presence of God
The Ark symbolized God's presence. In our lives, we must prioritize seeking and acknowledging God's presence in all circumstances.

Faith in Action
The Israelites' march around Jericho was an act of faith. We are called to put our faith into action, trusting God's promises even when the outcome is not immediately visible.

Spiritual Warfare
The battle of Jericho was not won by conventional means but through spiritual obedience. This reminds us that our battles are often spiritual and require spiritual solutions.

Community and Unity
The Israelites acted as one body, unified in purpose. In our Christian walk, unity and community are vital for achieving God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Israelites in Joshua 6:11 challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are carrying the "Ark of the LORD" (God's presence) in our lives today?

3. How does the account of Jericho encourage us to act in faith, even when God's instructions seem unconventional?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' unity and collective action in the conquest of Jericho?

5. How can we apply the concept of spiritual warfare from Joshua 6:11 to the challenges we face in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25:10-22
Describes the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing its significance as the dwelling place of God's presence.

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

1 Samuel 4:3-11
Illustrates the consequences of misusing the Ark, underscoring the need for reverence and obedience to God.