Early the next morning
This phrase indicates a sense of urgency and readiness in Joshua's leadership. Rising early is often associated with diligence and devotion in Scripture, as seen in the lives of Abraham (Genesis 22:3) and David (Psalm 5:3). It reflects Joshua's commitment to God's command and the importance of the task ahead.

Joshua got up and left Shittim
Shittim, also known as Abel-Shittim, was the last encampment of the Israelites before crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It is located in the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan. This departure marks a significant transition from the wilderness wanderings to the conquest of Canaan. Joshua's leadership is pivotal here, as he follows in the footsteps of Moses, leading the people into a new chapter of their history.

with all the Israelites
The inclusion of "all the Israelites" emphasizes the unity and collective movement of the nation. This was not just a military campaign but a spiritual journey for the entire community. The unity of the Israelites is crucial for the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in their collective experiences throughout the Exodus and wilderness period.

They went as far as the Jordan
The Jordan River represents a significant geographical and spiritual boundary. It is a natural barrier separating the Israelites from the Promised Land. Crossing the Jordan is symbolic of entering into God's promises and is often seen as a type of baptism or spiritual renewal, paralleling the Christian experience of entering into new life through Christ.

where they camped before crossing over
Camping before crossing the Jordan allowed the Israelites time for preparation and consecration, as detailed in the following verses. This pause signifies a moment of reflection and readiness before a major transition. It also connects to the theme of waiting on God's timing, as seen in other biblical narratives such as the Israelites' wait at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19). The crossing itself foreshadows the miraculous works of God, reminiscent of the Red Sea crossing, and points to the ultimate deliverance found in Jesus Christ.

After three days
The phrase "after three days" is significant in biblical narratives, often symbolizing a period of preparation, waiting, or transition. In the context of Joshua 3, the Israelites are on the brink of entering the Promised Land, a pivotal moment in their history. The three-day period may have been used for spiritual preparation, reflection, and logistical organization. This time frame is reminiscent of other biblical events, such as Jonah's three days in the belly of the fish (Jonah 1:17) and Jesus' resurrection on the third day (Matthew 16:21), symbolizing a transition from death to life or from old to new.

the officers went through the camp
The officers, or leaders, played a crucial role in communicating God's instructions to the people. Their movement through the camp signifies the organized and orderly nature of the Israelite community under Joshua's leadership. This action reflects the military and communal structure of the Israelites, emphasizing obedience and readiness. The officers' role is similar to that of the elders in the New Testament church, who are responsible for guiding and instructing the congregation (1 Peter 5:1-3). The camp itself, a temporary dwelling place, symbolizes the transient nature of the Israelites' journey and their reliance on God's guidance as they move towards the fulfillment of His promises.

and commanded the people:
This phrase indicates a direct order given to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of obedience to divine instructions. In the context of Joshua, leadership and adherence to God's commands are crucial for the success of the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land. This command reflects the hierarchical structure of Israelite society, where leaders like Joshua relay God's instructions to the people.

“When you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God
The Ark of the Covenant is central to Israel's worship and represents God's presence among His people. It contains the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna, symbolizing God's covenant, authority, and provision. The mention of "the LORD your God" underscores the personal relationship between God and Israel, highlighting His role as their divine leader and protector.

being carried by the Levitical priests,
The Levites, specifically the priests, were set apart for sacred duties, including the transportation of the Ark. This task underscores the holiness of the Ark and the need for it to be handled by those consecrated for such purposes. The Levitical priesthood is a type of Christ, who is our High Priest, mediating between God and humanity.

you are to set out from your positions and follow it.
This instruction requires the Israelites to move in faith, leaving their current positions to follow the Ark. It signifies a transition from wandering to entering the Promised Land, a journey that requires trust in God's guidance. The act of following the Ark symbolizes following God's presence and direction, akin to the call for believers to follow Christ. This movement also prefigures the Christian journey of faith, where believers are called to leave behind their old lives and follow Jesus.

But keep a distance of about two thousand cubits between yourselves and the ark.
The instruction to maintain a distance of about two thousand cubits (approximately 3,000 feet or 900 meters) between the people and the Ark of the Covenant underscores the holiness and sacredness of the Ark. The Ark represented God's presence among His people, and this separation emphasized reverence and respect. In the broader biblical context, the Ark contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna, symbolizing God's covenant, authority, and provision. The distance also ensured that the Ark was visible to all, guiding the Israelites as they prepared to cross the Jordan River. This act of keeping a distance can be seen as a type of Christ, who is both near to us and yet set apart in His holiness.

Do not go near it,
This command highlights the need for the Israelites to approach God with reverence and awe. The holiness of God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, and the Israelites were reminded of the consequences of approaching God irreverently, as seen in the accounts of Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-2) and Uzzah (2 Samuel 6:6-7). The Ark, as the earthly throne of God, required the people to maintain a respectful distance, acknowledging God's transcendence and their own sinfulness.

so that you can see the way to go,
The Ark served as a guide for the Israelites, leading them into the Promised Land. This guidance is reminiscent of the pillar of cloud and fire that led them through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21-22). The Ark's position at the forefront allowed the people to follow its lead, symbolizing God's leadership and direction in their journey. This phrase also points to the necessity of divine guidance in unfamiliar circumstances, a principle applicable to believers seeking God's direction in their lives.

since you have never traveled this way before.”
The Israelites were entering uncharted territory, both geographically and spiritually. This journey into the Promised Land required faith and trust in God's promises. The phrase underscores the newness of the path and the need for reliance on God, who knows the way. It also foreshadows the new covenant and the new way of life that Jesus Christ would bring, as He is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). This journey into the unknown is a metaphor for the Christian walk, where believers are called to trust in God's guidance through life's uncertainties.

Then Joshua told the people
Joshua, the leader of Israel after Moses, is speaking to the Israelites. This moment occurs as they prepare to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Joshua's leadership is crucial, as he guides the people in fulfilling God's promises. His role as a leader is reminiscent of Moses, and he is a type of Christ, leading God's people into their inheritance.

“Consecrate yourselves
Consecration involves setting oneself apart for a holy purpose. In the Old Testament, this often included rituals such as washing clothes, abstaining from certain activities, and offering sacrifices. This act of consecration signifies spiritual preparation and purification, emphasizing the need for holiness when approaching God. It reflects the broader biblical theme of sanctification, seen in passages like Leviticus 20:7-8 and 1 Peter 1:15-16.

for tomorrow
The specific timing indicates an imminent divine action. It underscores the urgency and immediacy of God's plans. This phrase also highlights the faith required to trust in God's timing, as seen in other biblical narratives where God acts at a specific moment, such as the Exodus from Egypt.

the LORD will do wonders among you.”
The term "wonders" refers to miraculous acts that demonstrate God's power and presence. In the context of Israel's history, this includes events like the parting of the Red Sea and the plagues in Egypt. These wonders serve as signs of God's covenant faithfulness and His ability to fulfill His promises. The anticipation of wonders also points to the New Testament, where Jesus performs miracles, affirming His divine authority and foreshadowing the ultimate wonder of His resurrection.

And he said to the priests,
This phrase refers to Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after Moses. Joshua's role as a leader is significant, as he is seen as a type of Christ, leading God's people into the Promised Land. The priests, from the tribe of Levi, were responsible for religious duties and carrying the Ark of the Covenant, symbolizing their role as mediators between God and the people.

“Take the ark of the covenant
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It represented God's presence and covenant with Israel. The Ark's presence signified divine guidance and assurance of victory, as seen in other biblical events like the fall of Jericho.

and go on ahead of the people.”
This instruction emphasizes the importance of God's presence leading the way. The Ark going ahead symbolizes that the Israelites were to follow God's guidance into the Promised Land. It reflects the principle of seeking divine direction before taking action, a theme echoed in Proverbs 3:5-6.

So they carried the ark of the covenant
The priests' obedience in carrying the Ark demonstrates their faith and trust in God's command. This act of carrying the Ark is a physical manifestation of their spiritual responsibility to uphold God's law and lead the people in worship and obedience.

and went ahead of them.
The priests leading the way with the Ark signifies the precedence of spiritual leadership and divine guidance over human plans. This mirrors the New Testament teaching of Christ as the head of the Church, leading His people. It also foreshadows the role of Jesus as the ultimate High Priest, who goes before us into the presence of God.

Now the LORD said to Joshua
This phrase indicates direct communication from God to Joshua, emphasizing the divine authority and guidance Joshua receives. It parallels the way God spoke to Moses, establishing Joshua as Moses' rightful successor. This communication underscores the continuity of God's plan and leadership for Israel.

Today I will begin to exalt you
God's promise to exalt Joshua marks a pivotal moment in his leadership. This exaltation is not for Joshua's personal glory but to affirm his role as leader. It reflects God's pattern of raising leaders at the right time, as seen with figures like Joseph and David. The timing ("Today") signifies the immediacy and importance of the events about to unfold.

in the sight of all Israel
The public nature of Joshua's exaltation is crucial for establishing his authority among the Israelites. It ensures that the people recognize and respect his leadership, which is essential for the unity and success of the nation. This public affirmation is reminiscent of Moses' leadership being confirmed through signs and wonders.

so they may know that I am with you
This assurance of God's presence is central to Joshua's mission. It echoes God's promise to Moses and reassures the Israelites that their journey is under divine guidance. The phrase highlights the importance of God's presence for success and victory, a theme prevalent throughout the Old Testament.

just as I was with Moses
By comparing Joshua to Moses, God reinforces the continuity of His covenant and leadership. This comparison not only legitimizes Joshua's leadership but also comforts the Israelites, reminding them of God's past faithfulness. It foreshadows the miraculous events that will affirm Joshua's leadership, similar to those experienced under Moses.

Command the priests carrying the ark of the covenant:
The priests were from the tribe of Levi, specifically chosen to carry the Ark, which symbolized God's presence among His people. The Ark contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a jar of manna, representing God's covenant, authority, and provision. This command highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and obedience to God's instructions. The Ark's presence signifies that God is leading His people into the Promised Land, similar to how Christ leads believers into spiritual rest and inheritance.

When you reach the edge of the waters:
The Jordan River was a significant geographical barrier to the Israelites entering Canaan. Its banks were overflowing during the harvest season, making crossing impossible without divine intervention. This moment parallels the crossing of the Red Sea, where God demonstrated His power and faithfulness. The edge of the waters represents a point of faith and trust, where the Israelites had to rely on God's promise rather than their own understanding.

Stand in the Jordan:
Standing in the Jordan required faith and courage, as the river was at flood stage. This act of obedience was a test of faith, similar to Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on water. The priests' willingness to stand in the river symbolizes the believer's call to step out in faith, trusting in God's provision and timing. The Jordan River is often seen as a type of baptism, representing death to the old life and entry into a new life, foreshadowing the believer's identification with Christ's death and resurrection.

So Joshua told the Israelites
Joshua, as the appointed leader after Moses, is fulfilling his role as the spiritual and military leader of Israel. This moment occurs as the Israelites are preparing to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. Joshua's leadership is crucial as he guides the people in faith and obedience. This phrase highlights the importance of leadership in guiding God's people, a theme seen throughout the Bible, such as in the leadership of Moses, David, and ultimately Jesus Christ.

Come here
This invitation to gather is significant in the context of ancient Israelite culture, where communal gatherings were central to religious and social life. It signifies a call to attention and readiness to receive divine instruction. The act of coming together as a community to hear God's word is a practice that continues in Christian worship today.

and listen to the words
Listening is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the importance of hearing and obeying God's commands. In Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema begins with "Hear, O Israel," underscoring the necessity of attentive listening. This phrase underscores the importance of being receptive to God's guidance and instruction.

of the LORD your God
This phrase reaffirms the covenant relationship between the Israelites and Yahweh. The use of "LORD" in all capitals signifies the divine name YHWH, emphasizing God's eternal and unchanging nature. The possessive "your God" highlights the personal relationship and covenantal bond between God and His people. This covenant is foundational to Israel's identity and mission, and it foreshadows the new covenant established through Jesus Christ.

He continued,
This phrase indicates that Joshua is speaking to the Israelites, continuing a message or instruction. It suggests a moment of leadership and guidance, emphasizing the importance of what follows.

“This is how you will know that the living God is among you
The term "living God" contrasts with the lifeless idols worshiped by other nations. It underscores God's active presence and power. This assurance is crucial for the Israelites as they face the daunting task of entering the Promised Land. The phrase echoes Deuteronomy 5:26, where the living God is associated with His mighty acts and presence among His people.

and that He will surely drive out before you
This promise of divine intervention reassures the Israelites of victory. It reflects God's covenant faithfulness, as He had promised Abraham the land of Canaan (Genesis 15:18-21). The certainty of "surely" emphasizes God's commitment to His promises.

the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites.
These groups represent the inhabitants of Canaan, each with distinct cultures and territories. Archaeological findings confirm their existence and provide insights into their societies. The mention of these specific nations highlights the comprehensive nature of God's promise to give Israel the land. The conquest of these peoples fulfills God's promise and serves as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death, as seen in Colossians 2:15, where Christ disarms spiritual powers.

Behold,
This word serves as a call to attention, emphasizing the importance of what follows. It is often used in Scripture to introduce a significant event or divine action. Here, it signals the miraculous event about to occur as the Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River.

the ark of the covenant
The Ark of the Covenant is a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It symbolizes God's presence and covenant with Israel. The Ark's presence signifies divine guidance and assurance of God's promises. It is central to Israel's worship and a tangible representation of God's holiness and leadership.

of the Lord of all the earth
This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty over all creation, not just Israel. It highlights His universal authority and power, reinforcing that the miraculous crossing of the Jordan is an act of the Creator. This title for God underscores His dominion and the fulfillment of His promises to His people.

will go ahead of you
The Ark leading the way signifies God's leadership and protection. It reassures the Israelites that God is with them, guiding them into the Promised Land. This mirrors the pillar of cloud and fire that led them through the wilderness, showing continuity in God's guidance.

into the Jordan.
The Jordan River represents a significant geographical and spiritual boundary. Crossing it marks the transition from the wilderness into the Promised Land. The river's parting is reminiscent of the Red Sea crossing, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness. This event prefigures baptism, symbolizing death to the old life and entry into a new life in Christ.

Now choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel,
The selection of twelve men from the tribes of Israel is significant as it represents the unity and collective identity of the nation. The number twelve is symbolic throughout the Bible, often representing completeness and God's authority. This mirrors the twelve tribes of Israel, which are foundational to the nation's identity. The act of choosing men from each tribe underscores the importance of communal participation in God's plans and the shared responsibility among the tribes.

one from each tribe.
Selecting one man from each tribe ensures that all tribes are equally represented, emphasizing the unity and equality among them. This act of representation is crucial in maintaining the cohesion of the nation as they enter the Promised Land. It also prefigures the New Testament, where Jesus chooses twelve apostles, symbolizing the new people of God. The twelve stones that these men will later carry from the Jordan River serve as a memorial for future generations, reminding them of God's faithfulness and the miraculous crossing of the Jordan, similar to the crossing of the Red Sea.

When the feet of the priests who carry the ark of the LORD
The priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant symbolize the presence of God among His people. The Ark contained the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and manna, representing God's covenant, authority, and provision. The priests' role highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and obedience in fulfilling God's promises. This act of carrying the Ark signifies the need for divine guidance and intervention in crossing the Jordan, a formidable barrier to entering the Promised Land.

—the Lord of all the earth—
This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and authority over all creation. It serves as a reminder that the God of Israel is not a local deity but the supreme ruler of the entire earth. This declaration of God's dominion reassures the Israelites of His power to control natural elements, such as the waters of the Jordan, and to fulfill His promises. It also foreshadows the universal scope of God's plan, which extends beyond Israel to all nations.

touch down in the waters of the Jordan
The Jordan River represents a significant geographical and spiritual boundary. Geographically, it separates the wilderness from the Promised Land. Spiritually, it symbolizes a transition from the old life of wandering to a new life of promise and fulfillment. The act of the priests stepping into the river demonstrates faith and obedience, as the waters were at flood stage, making the crossing humanly impossible without divine intervention.

its flowing waters will be cut off
This miraculous event parallels the parting of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's power to deliver His people. The cutting off of the waters signifies God's ability to remove obstacles and provide a way where there seems to be none. It serves as a testament to His faithfulness and might, encouraging the Israelites to trust in His provision and protection as they enter the land He promised to their ancestors.

and will stand up in a heap.
The waters standing in a heap is a supernatural occurrence, demonstrating God's control over nature. This imagery recalls the creation narrative, where God separates waters to create dry land, highlighting His creative power. It also prefigures the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan, where the heavens open, signifying a new beginning. The standing waters symbolize the halting of chaos and the establishment of order, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground, just as they did at the Red Sea.

So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan
This phrase marks a significant moment in Israel's history as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The act of breaking camp signifies readiness and obedience to God's command. The Jordan River represents a boundary between the wilderness and the land of Canaan, symbolizing a transition from wandering to inheritance. Historically, the Jordan River was at flood stage during this time, making the crossing a miraculous event (Joshua 3:15). This moment parallels the crossing of the Red Sea, highlighting God's continued provision and faithfulness.

the priests carried the ark of the covenant ahead of them
The Ark of the Covenant, a sacred chest containing the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and manna, symbolizes God's presence and covenant with Israel. The priests, as mediators between God and the people, carrying the Ark ahead, signifies that God leads His people. This act demonstrates the importance of divine guidance and the centrality of God's presence in achieving victory and fulfilling His promises. The Ark going before the people foreshadows Christ, who goes before us as our High Priest and mediator (Hebrews 4:14-16). The Ark's presence assures the Israelites of God's power and protection as they undertake this daunting task.

Now the Jordan overflows its banks throughout the harvest season.
The Jordan River, a significant geographical feature in Israel, often swells during the harvest season due to the melting snow from Mount Hermon. This natural phenomenon makes crossing the river particularly challenging, emphasizing the miraculous nature of the Israelites' crossing. The timing during the harvest season, likely around April, aligns with the Passover, a period of great significance in Israel's history. This overflowing symbolizes obstacles that seem insurmountable without divine intervention, drawing parallels to other biblical events where God intervenes in nature, such as the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22).

But as soon as the priests carrying the ark reached the Jordan
The priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant represent God's presence among His people. The Ark, containing the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and manna, signifies God's covenant, guidance, and provision. The priests' role underscores the importance of spiritual leadership and obedience in the face of daunting challenges. This act of faith by the priests is reminiscent of the faith required by the Israelites when they first left Egypt, highlighting a recurring theme of trust in God's promises.

and their feet touched the water’s edge,
The moment the priests' feet touch the water signifies the activation of God's promise through an act of faith. This step into the water is a physical manifestation of trust, akin to Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on water (Matthew 14:29). It illustrates the principle that faith often requires action before witnessing God's power. This event foreshadows the New Testament teaching of living by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7), and it typifies the believer's journey of stepping into the unknown, trusting in God's provision and protection.

the flowing water stood still
This miraculous event demonstrates God's power over nature, reminiscent of the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14:21-22. It signifies divine intervention, affirming God's presence with Israel as they enter the Promised Land. The stilling of the waters symbolizes God's control over chaos and His ability to provide a path where none seems possible.

It backed up as far upstream as Adam
The city of Adam is mentioned only here in the Bible, suggesting a significant geographical marker. The backing up of the waters to Adam, approximately 18 miles upstream, emphasizes the magnitude of the miracle. This event may symbolize a return to the beginning, as "Adam" can also mean "man," hinting at a new creation or beginning for Israel in the Promised Land.

a city in the area of Zarethan
Zarethan is located near the Jordan Valley, and its mention provides a specific geographical context, grounding the miracle in a real location. This detail underscores the historical reliability of the biblical narrative. Zarethan is also mentioned in 1 Kings 4:12 and 1 Kings 7:46, indicating its significance in Israel's history.

while the water flowing toward the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea) was completely cut off
The Sea of the Arabah, also known as the Dead Sea, is the lowest point on earth. The complete cutting off of water signifies total divine control, ensuring safe passage for the Israelites. This act of God mirrors the separation of the Red Sea, reinforcing the theme of deliverance and God's faithfulness to His promises.

So the people crossed over opposite Jericho
Jericho, a fortified city, represents the first major challenge in the conquest of Canaan. The crossing opposite Jericho signifies a strategic and divinely orchestrated entry into the land. This crossing prefigures the victory over Jericho in Joshua 6, highlighting God's role in Israel's military successes. The crossing is a type of baptism, symbolizing purification and preparation for the battles ahead, much like Jesus' baptism marked the beginning of His ministry.

The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It symbolized God's presence and covenant with Israel. The priests, from the tribe of Levi, were responsible for carrying the Ark, emphasizing the holiness and reverence required in handling it. This act signifies God's leadership and guidance as Israel enters the Promised Land, reminiscent of the Ark's role in leading the Israelites through the wilderness.

stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan
The Jordan River was a significant geographical barrier, and its crossing marked a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The priests standing firm symbolizes stability and faith in God's promise. The miraculous drying of the river parallels the parting of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's power and faithfulness. This event also prefigures baptism, representing a transition from the old life to a new life in God's promise.

while all Israel crossed over the dry ground
The entire nation crossing safely signifies unity and collective faith in God's provision. It highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land. This crossing is a type of salvation, where the people are delivered from the wilderness into the land of promise, akin to believers' journey from sin to salvation through Christ.

until the entire nation had crossed the Jordan
The complete crossing of the nation underscores God's faithfulness to His covenant people. It also signifies the beginning of a new chapter in Israel's history, as they prepare to conquer and settle in Canaan. This moment foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, who leads believers into the eternal Promised Land.