Topical Encyclopedia Geographical and Historical Context:Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, located in the Jordan Valley, approximately 15 miles east of Jerusalem and near the Jordan River. Its strategic position made it a significant city in biblical history, serving as a gateway to the Promised Land. The city is often referred to as the "City of Palms" due to its lush surroundings (Deuteronomy 34:3). Biblical Significance: Jericho holds a prominent place in the biblical narrative, particularly in the Old Testament. It is most famously known for the miraculous conquest by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership. As the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, Jericho was the first city they encountered. The Lord instructed Joshua on how to capture the city, commanding the Israelites to march around its walls once a day for six days and seven times on the seventh day. On the seventh day, the priests blew their trumpets, and the people shouted, causing the walls of Jericho to collapse (Joshua 6:1-20). Rahab and the Spies: Before the conquest, Joshua sent two spies to scout Jericho. They were sheltered by Rahab, a prostitute who recognized the power of the God of Israel. In exchange for her protection, the spies promised to spare her and her family during the city's destruction. Rahab's faith and actions are commended in the New Testament, where she is listed among the heroes of faith (Hebrews 11:31) and is noted in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). Rebuilding and Curses: After its destruction, Joshua pronounced a curse on anyone who would rebuild Jericho, stating, "Cursed before the LORD is the man who rises up and rebuilds this city, Jericho; at the cost of his firstborn he will lay its foundations, and at the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates" (Joshua 6:26). This curse was fulfilled during the reign of King Ahab when Hiel of Bethel rebuilt the city at the cost of his sons (1 Kings 16:34). New Testament References: In the New Testament, Jericho is mentioned in the context of Jesus' ministry. It was near Jericho that Jesus healed Bartimaeus, a blind beggar (Mark 10:46-52). Additionally, the account of Zacchaeus, the tax collector who climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus, took place in Jericho (Luke 19:1-10). These accounts highlight Jericho as a place of transformation and divine encounter. Archaeological Insights: Archaeological excavations at Tell es-Sultan, the ancient site of Jericho, have revealed evidence of a fortified city with walls that date back to the time of Joshua. While debates continue regarding the exact timeline and nature of the destruction, the archaeological findings provide a backdrop for understanding the biblical account. Cultural and Theological Themes: Jericho serves as a symbol of God's faithfulness and power. The city's fall demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promises to Israel and His ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The account of Rahab illustrates God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan. Jericho's narrative underscores themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention that resonate throughout Scripture. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 22:1And the children of Israel set forward, and pitched in the plains of Moab on this side Jordan by Jericho. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 26:3 Deuteronomy 34:1 Library In Jericho and at Bethany - Jericho - a Guest with Zacch??us - the ... A Description Op Galilee, Samaria, and Judea. From the Talmud and Hebraica Quaker City Excursion John the Baptist --visit of Jesus to John, and his Abode in the ... The Gospel. A Sedition against Sabinus; and How Varus Brought the Authors of ... The Story of the Stranger at the Well The Gospel Refuge. The Story of the Baptist, from his Last Testimony to Jesus to his ... Resources Matthew 20:29-34 says Jesus healed two blind men as He left Jericho. Mark 10:46-52 and Luke 18:35-43 say He healed one man as He entered Jericho. Is this a contradiction? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Rahab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Achan in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Besieged by Joshua for Seven Days Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Blind Men Healed At, by Jesus Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Called the City of Palm Trees Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Location of, Pleasant Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rahab the Harlot Lived In Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Rebuilt by Hiel Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: The Kenites Lived At Jericho: A City East of Jerusalem and Near the Jordan River: Zacchaeus Lived At Jericho: Inhabitants of, Taken Captive to Babylon, Return To, With Ezra and Nehemiah Jericho: Joshua Sees the "Captain of the Host" of the Lord Near Jericho: King of Moab Makes Conquest of, and Establishes his Capital At Jericho: Waters of Purified by Elisha Related Terms |
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