Joshua 6:15

Then on the seventh day, they got up at dawn and marched around the city seven times in the same manner. That was the only day they circled the city seven times.

Study Bible

Then on the seventh day
The seventh day holds significant biblical symbolism, often representing completion or perfection, as seen in the creation account (Genesis 2:2-3). This day marks the culmination of the Israelites' obedience to God's specific instructions for conquering Jericho, emphasizing the importance of divine timing and fulfillment of God's promises.

they got up at dawn
Rising early demonstrates the Israelites' eagerness and readiness to follow God's command. This practice of early rising for significant events is seen throughout Scripture, such as Abraham rising early to obey God (Genesis 22:3) and Jesus rising early to pray (Mark 1:35), indicating dedication and commitment to God's will.

and marched around the city seven times
The act of marching around Jericho seven times on the seventh day is a unique military strategy that underscores reliance on God's power rather than human strength. The number seven is often associated with divine completeness and perfection. This repetitive action also serves as a test of faith and obedience, reminiscent of Naaman's seven dips in the Jordan River for healing (2 Kings 5:10-14).

in the same manner
This phrase indicates consistency and faithfulness in following God's instructions. The Israelites maintained the same procedure as the previous six days, highlighting the importance of perseverance and steadfastness in faith, as echoed in Galatians 6:9, which encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good.

That was the only day they circled the city seven times.
This distinction sets the seventh day apart, emphasizing its significance and the miraculous nature of the impending victory. It highlights the uniqueness of God's plan and the importance of following His specific instructions. The singularity of this event points to the extraordinary intervention of God, similar to other miraculous events in Scripture, such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22).

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 Canaan, representing the first major obstacle in the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land.

4. The Seventh Day
A significant day in the biblical account, often associated with completion and divine intervention. In this context, it marks the culmination of the Israelites' obedience and faith.

5. Marching Around the City
A unique military strategy commanded by God, emphasizing faith and obedience over conventional warfare tactics.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' success at Jericho was not due to military might but their obedience to God's unconventional instructions. This teaches us the importance of trusting and obeying God's guidance, even when it defies human logic.

The Power of Faith
The act of marching around Jericho for seven days required faith in God's promise. Our faith in God's promises can lead to victory over seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Divine Timing
The significance of the seventh day highlights God's perfect timing. We are reminded to be patient and trust in God's timing for the fulfillment of His promises.

Community and Unity
The Israelites acted as one body, following Joshua's leadership. This unity was crucial for their success, teaching us the importance of community and collective faith in achieving God's purposes.

Symbolism of the Number Seven
The number seven often symbolizes completeness and perfection in the Bible. This event encourages us to seek spiritual completeness through our relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Israelites' obedience in Joshua 6:15 challenge our understanding of faith and action in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of divine timing, as seen in the seventh day, to our personal circumstances?

3. How does the account of Jericho connect with other biblical accounts that emphasize faith and obedience, such as the account of Abraham or the early church?

4. What role does community play in our spiritual victories, and how can we foster unity within our own faith communities?

5. How can the symbolism of the number seven in this passage inspire us to seek spiritual completeness and maturity in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:30
This verse highlights the faith of the Israelites in the fall of Jericho, connecting their actions to the broader theme of faith in the New Testament.

Exodus 20:8-11
The concept of the seventh day as a day of completion and rest is rooted in the creation account and the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the importance of divine timing.

1 Samuel 15:22
This verse underscores the importance of obedience to God over sacrifice, paralleling the Israelites' obedience in marching around Jericho.