Topical Encyclopedia Biblical Reference: The account of the pillar set up by Joshua at Shechem is found in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 24:25-27. This event occurs towards the end of Joshua's leadership over Israel, as he gathers the tribes at Shechem to renew their covenant with the LORD. Historical Context: Shechem holds significant historical and spiritual importance for the Israelites. It is located in the hill country of Ephraim and is a place where key patriarchal events occurred, including God's promise of the land to Abraham (Genesis 12:6-7) and Jacob's purchase of land (Genesis 33:18-20). By the time of Joshua, Shechem had become a central location for covenantal ceremonies. Event Description: In Joshua 24, Joshua assembles all the tribes of Israel at Shechem, calling upon the elders, leaders, judges, and officials to present themselves before God. Joshua recounts the history of Israel, from the time of Abraham to their conquest of Canaan, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the need for Israel to serve the LORD exclusively. Joshua challenges the people to choose whom they will serve, famously declaring, "But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15). The people affirm their commitment to the LORD, rejecting other gods. The Pillar: To commemorate this renewed covenant, Joshua establishes a physical reminder. Joshua 24:25-27 states: "On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he established for them a statute and ordinance. Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak that was near the sanctuary of the LORD. And Joshua said to all the people, 'You see this stone will be a witness against us, for it has heard all the words the LORD has spoken to us, and it will be a witness against you if you ever deny your God.'" Significance of the Pillar: The stone pillar serves as a tangible witness to the covenant made between the Israelites and God. It symbolizes the people's commitment to follow the LORD and acts as a reminder of the solemn promises made that day. The location under the oak near the sanctuary suggests a sacred setting, reinforcing the gravity of the covenant. Theological Implications: The pillar at Shechem underscores the importance of covenant renewal and the need for God's people to remember and uphold their commitments. It highlights the role of physical symbols in the spiritual life of Israel, serving as a perpetual reminder of their relationship with God. The event at Shechem also reflects the biblical theme of choice and accountability, as the Israelites are called to consciously choose to serve the LORD and are reminded of the consequences of turning away. Legacy: The pillar at Shechem stands as a testament to the enduring nature of God's covenants with His people. It serves as a historical and spiritual marker, reminding future generations of the faithfulness required in their walk with God. The narrative of Joshua and the pillar continues to inspire believers to renew their own commitments to God and to live in accordance with His statutes. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 24:25-27So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and set them a statute and an ordinance in Shechem. Nave's Topical Index Judges 9:6 Library Chapter xxxv Chapter xxxiv Nature of Covenanting. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant. Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ... An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ... Resources What did the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night signify? (Exodus 13:21-22) | GotQuestions.orgWhy was Lot's wife turned into a pillar of salt? | GotQuestions.org What does 1 Timothy 3:15 mean when it says that the church is the pillar and foundation of the truth? | GotQuestions.org Pillar: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pillar by Absalom, to Keep his Name Alive Pillar by Jacob, his Covenant With Laban Pillar by Joshua, the Crossing of the Jordan River Pillar by Moses, the Covenant Between Jehovah and Israel Pillar by Samuel, the Defeat of the Philistines Pillar: Broken and Carried to Babylon Pillar: Monuments Erected to Commemorate Events by Jacob, his Vision of Angels Pillar: Monuments of Idolatry, to be Destroyed Pillar: Pillar of Salt, Lot's Wife Turned To Pillar: Prophecy of One in Egypt Related Terms Standing-pillar (3 Occurrences) El-elohe-Israel (1 Occurrence) |
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