Joshua 6:3

March around the city with all the men of war, circling the city one time. Do this for six days.

Study Bible

March around the city
The Hebrew word for "march" is "naqaph," which means to go around or encircle. This command to march around Jericho is not just a military tactic but a divine directive that emphasizes obedience and faith. The act of marching around the city symbolizes a spiritual journey of trust in God's plan, even when it defies conventional military strategies. Historically, Jericho was a fortified city, and the Israelites' act of marching around it was a demonstration of their reliance on God's power rather than their own might.

with all the men of war
The phrase "men of war" refers to the Israelite soldiers, highlighting the involvement of the entire community in God's plan. The Hebrew term "anshe hamilchamah" underscores the readiness and commitment of these warriors to follow God's unusual instructions. This collective action signifies unity and the importance of communal faith in achieving God's purposes. It also serves as a reminder that spiritual battles require the participation of all believers, not just a select few.

circling the city one time
The instruction to circle the city once each day for six days is a test of patience and perseverance. The Hebrew word "sabab" for "circling" implies a complete encirclement, symbolizing the comprehensive nature of God's plan. This repetitive action teaches the Israelites—and us—about the importance of persistence in faith. It also foreshadows the complete victory that God promises to those who trust and obey Him fully.

Do this for six days
The number six in the Bible often represents human effort and incompleteness, as it falls short of the divine perfection symbolized by the number seven. The six days of marching without immediate results challenge the Israelites to trust in God's timing and not their own understanding. This period of waiting and obedience is crucial for building faith and reliance on God. It serves as a powerful reminder that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His plans often require patience and steadfastness before the fulfillment of His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in the conquest of Canaan.

2. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, known for its strong walls. It is the first city the Israelites encounter in their conquest of the Promised Land.

3. Israelite Men of War
The soldiers of Israel who are commanded to march around Jericho. They represent the obedience and faith of the people in God's plan.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, it plays a crucial role in the events of Jericho, symbolizing God's presence among His people.

5. The Six-Day March
The specific command given by God to Joshua, which involves a seemingly unusual military strategy that requires faith and obedience.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' march around Jericho teaches us the importance of following God's commands, even when they seem unconventional or illogical.

Faith in God's Promises
The account of Jericho is a testament to the power of faith. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them.

God's Sovereignty in Battle
The fall of Jericho illustrates that victory comes not by human might but by God's power. This encourages believers to rely on God in their personal battles.

The Role of Patience and Perseverance
The six-day march signifies the need for patience and perseverance in God's timing, teaching us to wait on the Lord.

Community and Unity in Faith
The collective action of the Israelites highlights the strength found in community and unity when pursuing God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to march around Jericho challenge our understanding of obedience and faith in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of relying on God's power rather than our own strength in our personal battles?

3. How does the account of Jericho encourage us to be patient and persevere in waiting for God's timing?

4. What are some modern-day "walls" or obstacles that require us to trust in God's unconventional methods for victory?

5. How can we foster a sense of community and unity in our faith journey, similar to the Israelites' collective obedience at Jericho?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Exodus 14:14
This verse reminds us of God's promise to fight for Israel, as He did at the Red Sea, emphasizing reliance on divine intervention rather than human strength.

2 Corinthians 10:4
This verse speaks to the spiritual nature of our battles, reminding believers that our weapons are not of the flesh but have divine power to demolish strongholds.