Topical Bible: Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Renews Circumcision of the Children of Israel

◄ Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Renews Circumcision of the Children of Israel ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Joshua, a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, is known for his leadership of the Israelites following the death of Moses. His name appears in various forms, including Jehoshua, Jehoshuah, and Oshea, reflecting the Hebrew roots and variations in transliteration. Joshua is renowned for his role in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and for his unwavering faithfulness to God.

Background and Leadership

Joshua, the son of Nun, from the tribe of Ephraim, first appears in the biblical narrative as a military leader and assistant to Moses. He is one of the twelve spies sent to Canaan and, along with Caleb, provides a positive report, demonstrating his trust in God's promises (Numbers 13-14). After Moses' death, Joshua is appointed by God to lead the Israelites into Canaan, a task that requires both military prowess and spiritual leadership.

Renewal of Circumcision

One of Joshua's significant acts as leader was the renewal of the covenantal practice of circumcision among the Israelites. This event is recorded in the Book of Joshua, chapter 5. As the Israelites crossed the Jordan River and entered the Promised Land, they camped at Gilgal. Here, God instructed Joshua to circumcise the new generation of Israelites who had been born during the forty years of wandering in the wilderness.

The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event: "At that time the LORD said to Joshua, 'Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel once again.' So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth" (Joshua 5:2-3). This act was necessary because the previous generation, who had been circumcised in Egypt, had perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience and lack of faith.

Significance of the Act

The renewal of circumcision under Joshua's leadership was a profound reaffirmation of the covenant between God and the Israelites. Circumcision was a physical sign of the Abrahamic Covenant, symbolizing the Israelites' unique relationship with God and their commitment to His laws. By renewing this practice, Joshua was not only obeying God's command but also preparing the people spiritually for the challenges ahead in conquering the land of Canaan.

The act of circumcision at Gilgal also marked a new beginning for the Israelites. It was a moment of consecration and purification, setting the stage for the Passover celebration that followed. The BSB notes, "On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, the Israelites kept the Passover" (Joshua 5:10). This observance was the first Passover celebrated in the Promised Land, signifying the fulfillment of God's promises to the patriarchs.

Legacy

Joshua's leadership and his commitment to upholding God's commands left a lasting legacy for the Israelites. His actions at Gilgal demonstrated the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's covenant. Through Joshua, the Israelites were reminded of their identity as God's chosen people and their duty to live according to His statutes.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 5:1
And it came to pass, when all the kings of the Amorites, which were on the side of Jordan westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, which were by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.
Nave's Topical Index