Joshua 6:4

Have seven priests carry seven rams' horns in front of the ark. Then on the seventh day, march around the city seven times, while the priests blow the horns.

Study Bible

Have seven priests carry seven rams’ horns in front of the ark.
The number seven is significant in biblical literature, often symbolizing completeness or divine perfection. The use of seven priests and seven rams' horns underscores the divine orchestration of the events at Jericho. Priests, as mediators between God and the people, carrying the rams' horns, which are shofars used in religious ceremonies, signifies the sacred nature of this military campaign. The ark represents God's presence among His people, emphasizing that the battle is spiritual and led by God Himself. This mirrors the role of the ark in other biblical narratives, such as its leading position in crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 3:3-4).

Then on the seventh day, march around the city seven times,
The seventh day is reminiscent of the Sabbath, a day of rest and worship, yet here it is a day of action, indicating a divine intervention that transcends normal human activity. Marching around the city seven times on this day highlights the culmination of God's plan for Jericho. This act of faith and obedience by the Israelites is a test of their trust in God's unconventional methods. The repetitive marching can be seen as a form of spiritual warfare, where persistence in faith leads to victory. This is echoed in the New Testament, where perseverance in faith is encouraged (Hebrews 11:30).

while the priests blow the horns.
The blowing of the rams' horns, or shofars, is a call to worship and a signal of God's presence and power. In ancient Israel, the shofar was used to announce significant events, such as the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:9) and to rally troops for battle (Judges 3:27). Here, it serves as a divine proclamation of impending victory and the fall of Jericho's walls. The sound of the shofar is also associated with the voice of God, as seen at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:16), symbolizing divine authority and intervention. This act foreshadows the ultimate victory of Christ, who will return with the sound of a trumpet (1 Thessalonians 4:16).

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. Priests
Religious leaders among the Israelites, tasked with carrying the rams' horns and leading the procession around Jericho.

3. Rams' Horns (Shofars)
Instruments used in religious ceremonies and battles, symbolizing God's presence and power.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's covenant with Israel and His presence among His people.

5. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, the first major conquest for the Israelites in the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites' victory at Jericho was contingent upon their strict adherence to God's specific instructions. This teaches us the importance of following God's guidance in our lives, even when it seems unconventional.

The Power of Faith
The Israelites' faith in God's promise led to the miraculous fall of Jericho's walls. Our faith can also lead to overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Symbolism of the Number Seven
The repeated use of the number seven (seven priests, seven horns, seven days) signifies completeness and divine perfection, reminding us of God's perfect plan and timing.

The Role of Worship in Spiritual Warfare
The blowing of the rams' horns and the presence of the Ark highlight the role of worship and God's presence in achieving victory over spiritual battles.

Community and Unity
The entire community of Israel participated in the march around Jericho, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective faith in achieving God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Israelites in Joshua 6:4 challenge us to trust and follow God's instructions in our own lives?

2. In what ways can the symbolism of the number seven in this passage encourage us to trust in God's perfect timing and plan?

3. How does the role of the priests and the Ark of the Covenant in the battle of Jericho illustrate the importance of worship and God's presence in our spiritual battles?

4. What lessons can we learn from the unity and collective action of the Israelites in their conquest of Jericho, and how can we apply these lessons to our church communities today?

5. How does the account of Jericho connect to other biblical accounts of faith and obedience, and what practical steps can we take to strengthen our faith in God's promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:13
The use of the shofar is also seen at Mount Sinai, where it signaled God's presence and the giving of the Law.

1 Samuel 4:3-5
The Ark of the Covenant is brought into battle, signifying God's presence and power among the Israelites.

Hebrews 11:30
The faith of the Israelites in the fall of Jericho is highlighted, showing the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan.