Gilgal holds a significant place in biblical history, particularly in the narrative of the Israelites' journey into the Promised Land. It is at Gilgal that a pivotal transition occurs, marking the end of one era and the beginning of another for the people of Israel. This entry focuses on the cessation of manna at Gilgal following the observance of the Passover.

Biblical Context

The account of the cessation of manna at Gilgal is found in the Book of Joshua. After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, they encamped at Gilgal on the eastern border of Jericho. This location became their first encampment in the land of Canaan. It was here that the new generation of Israelites, who had been born during the wilderness wanderings, were circumcised, renewing the covenant with the LORD (Joshua 5:2-9).

The Passover at Gilgal

Following the circumcision and healing of the people, the Israelites observed the Passover at Gilgal. This was a momentous occasion, as it was the first Passover celebrated in the Promised Land. Joshua 5:10 states, "On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, the Israelites kept the Passover."

Cessation of Manna

The day after the Passover, the Israelites ate some of the produce of the land, unleavened bread, and roasted grain. This marked a significant shift from their reliance on manna, which had sustained them throughout their 40 years in the wilderness. Joshua 5:12 records this transition: "The manna ceased the day after they ate from the produce of the land, and the Israelites no longer had manna, for they ate from the produce of the land of Canaan that year."

Significance

The cessation of manna at Gilgal symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promise to bring the Israelites into a land flowing with milk and honey. It signifies the end of their wilderness journey and the beginning of a new chapter in their history as they settle in the land God had promised to their forefathers. The reliance on the produce of Canaan represents a shift from divine provision in the form of manna to the blessings of the land itself, which they were to cultivate and steward.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the cessation of manna at Gilgal underscores God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience and covenant renewal. The observance of the Passover and the subsequent end of manna highlight the continuity of God's provision and the transition from one form of sustenance to another. It serves as a reminder of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His promises.

Conclusion

The events at Gilgal, particularly the cessation of manna following the Passover, mark a critical juncture in Israel's history. This transition from wilderness wanderers to inhabitants of the Promised Land is a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His covenant promises.Joshua 5:12
And the manna ceased on the morrow after they had eaten of the old corn of the land; neither had the children of Israel manna any more; but they did eat of the fruit of the land of Canaan that year.
Nave's Topical Index

A Nation that was Born in a Day.
... The stones were heaped in Gilgal where they camped, and directly ... and the fruits of
the land, and the manna fell no ... but on the day that the Jordan ceased to flow ...
/.../lathbury/childs story of the bible/chapter xiv a nation that.htm

Against Jovinianus.
... outer man is corrupt, and you have ceased to possess ... in our hearts to Egypt, and
after the manna, angels' food ... away, and the name of the place, Gilgal, which is ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm

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