Joshua 6:20

So when the rams' horns sounded, the people shouted. When they heard the blast of the horn, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it.

Study Bible

So when the rams’ horns sounded
The phrase "rams’ horns" refers to the shofar, a musical instrument made from a ram's horn, used in ancient Israel for religious and military purposes. The Hebrew word for this is "shofar," which is deeply symbolic in Jewish tradition, often associated with calls to repentance and divine intervention. The sounding of the shofar here signifies God's presence and power, heralding a miraculous event. Historically, the shofar was used to signal the start of battle, and its sound would have been both a rallying cry and a spiritual signal to the Israelites that God was with them.

the people shouted
The act of shouting by the people is significant in its demonstration of faith and obedience. The Hebrew word for "shouted" is "rua," which can mean to raise a noise or to cry out in triumph. This shout was not just a physical act but a spiritual one, symbolizing the Israelites' trust in God's promise. It was a shout of victory even before the walls fell, reflecting their confidence in God's power to deliver on His promises.

and when they heard the blast of the horn
The "blast of the horn" is a pivotal moment, marking the culmination of the Israelites' obedience to God's unusual battle plan. The Hebrew word "teruah" is used here, which can mean a loud noise or a signal. This blast was the divine signal for the Israelites to act, demonstrating the importance of listening for and responding to God's timing in our lives. It underscores the theme of divine orchestration and timing in the narrative.

the people gave a great shout
The "great shout" is a collective expression of faith and unity among the Israelites. The Hebrew word "gadol" means great or mighty, indicating the intensity and power of their shout. This unified cry symbolizes the strength found in communal faith and obedience to God. It serves as a reminder of the power of collective worship and action in achieving God's purposes.

and the wall collapsed
The miraculous collapse of the wall is the climax of the narrative, demonstrating God's supernatural intervention. The Hebrew word "naphal" means to fall or collapse, indicating a sudden and complete destruction. Archaeological evidence suggests that the walls of ancient Jericho were formidable, making their collapse an undeniable act of God. This event serves as a testament to God's power to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles when His people act in faith.

Then all the people charged straight into the city
The phrase "charged straight into" indicates the immediacy and directness of the Israelites' action following the wall's collapse. The Hebrew word "alah" means to go up or ascend, suggesting a swift and determined movement. This action reflects the readiness and courage of the Israelites to seize the opportunity provided by God, emphasizing the importance of acting decisively when God opens doors.

and captured it
The capture of Jericho is the fulfillment of God's promise to the Israelites. The Hebrew word "lakad" means to capture or seize, indicating a complete and successful conquest. This victory is not just a military achievement but a spiritual one, symbolizing the faithfulness of God to His covenant promises. It serves as a powerful reminder that when God is for us, no obstacle can stand in our way.

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 Israelites
The people of God, chosen to inherit the Promised Land. They are obedient to God's commands as they march around Jericho.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in the Promised Land, representing a significant obstacle to the Israelites. Its walls were considered impenetrable.

4. Rams’ Horns (Shofars)
Instruments used by the priests to signal the people. The sound of the shofar is significant in Jewish tradition, often associated with battle and worship.

5. The Wall of Jericho
The physical barrier that fell as a result of the Israelites' obedience to God's command, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God’s Commands
The Israelites' victory at Jericho was a direct result of their obedience to God's specific instructions. This teaches us the importance of following God's guidance in our lives.

Faith in Action
The fall of Jericho's walls demonstrates that faith requires action. The Israelites' faith was shown through their marching and shouting, reminding us that faith often involves stepping out in trust.

God’s Sovereignty and Power
The miraculous collapse of the walls underscores God's sovereignty and power over all obstacles. We can trust God to overcome the barriers in our lives.

The Role of Worship in Victory
The use of the shofar and the shout of the people highlight the role of worship in spiritual victory. Worship aligns our hearts with God's purposes and releases His power.

Community and Unity
The collective action of the Israelites shows the strength of community and unity in achieving God's purposes. We are called to work together as the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Israelites in Joshua 6:20 challenge you in your own walk of faith?

2. In what ways can you incorporate the principle of "faith in action" in your daily life, as demonstrated by the Israelites at Jericho?

3. Reflect on a "wall" or obstacle in your life. How can you apply the lessons from the fall of Jericho to trust in God's power to overcome it?

4. How does the account of Jericho encourage you to view worship as a vital part of spiritual warfare and victory?

5. Consider the role of community in the account of Jericho. How can you foster unity and collective faith in your church or small group?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:30
This verse in the New Testament references the fall of Jericho as an act of faith, highlighting the importance of faith in God's promises.

Exodus 14:13-14
The crossing of the Red Sea, where God delivers the Israelites from Egypt, parallels the miraculous intervention at Jericho, emphasizing God's deliverance.

2 Corinthians 10:4
This verse speaks of spiritual warfare and the power of God to demolish strongholds, drawing a parallel to the physical walls of Jericho.