Topical Encyclopedia The phenomenon of the moon standing still is a miraculous event recorded in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. This event is significant in biblical history as it demonstrates God's direct intervention in the natural order to aid His people, Israel, during a critical battle.Biblical Account: The primary account of the moon standing still is found in Joshua 10:12-14. During the conquest of Canaan, Joshua led the Israelites against a coalition of Amorite kings. As the battle raged, Joshua prayed for divine assistance to secure victory before nightfall. The Berean Standard Bible records Joshua's plea: "On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to the Israelites, Joshua spoke to the LORD in the presence of Israel: 'O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.' So the sun stood still and the moon stopped until the nation took vengeance upon its enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? So the sun stopped in the middle of the sky and delayed going down about a full day. There has never been a day like it before or since, when the LORD listened to the voice of a man, because the LORD fought for Israel." Theological Significance: This event underscores the sovereignty of God over creation. By halting the celestial bodies, God demonstrated His power to alter the natural laws He established. This miracle served to affirm His support for Israel and His commitment to fulfilling His promises to them. It also highlights the efficacy of prayer and the importance of faith, as Joshua's bold request was honored by God. Historical and Cultural Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, celestial bodies were often associated with deities and divine powers. The halting of the sun and moon would have been perceived as a profound demonstration of Yahweh's supremacy over other gods and natural forces. This act would have reinforced the Israelites' understanding of their God as the one true God, superior to the gods of the surrounding nations. Interpretations and Debates: Throughout history, scholars and theologians have debated the nature of this miracle. Some propose a literal interpretation, suggesting a supernatural suspension of the earth's rotation. Others suggest alternative explanations, such as an extended period of daylight due to atmospheric phenomena or a poetic description of Israel's victory. Despite differing views, the account remains a testament to God's intervention on behalf of His people. References in Other Scriptures: The event is briefly referenced in Habakkuk 3:11, which poetically recounts God's mighty acts: "Sun and moon stood still in their places at the flash of Your flying arrows, at the brightness of Your shining spear." This reference serves to remind readers of God's past deliverance and power. Conclusion: The account of the moon standing still in Joshua 10 is a powerful narrative that illustrates God's direct involvement in the affairs of His people. It serves as a reminder of His omnipotence and faithfulness, encouraging believers to trust in His ability to intervene in their lives. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 10:12Then spoke Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand you still on Gibeon; and you, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 13:1 Habakkuk 3:11 Library Simeon Canticles 4:12 the Lord's Garden. Letter v. --For 333. Easter-Day , Coss. Dalmatius and Zenophilus ... Still Continues the Praise of "Wisdom. ... You See How He Represents These Opinions as Things which are Held ... John Chapter viii. 21-25 Letter Lii. To Nepotian. Book Eleven the Eternal Creator and the Creation in Time. ... Humbly Inscribed to his Grace the Duke of Newcastle, one of his ... A Free Grace Promise Resources What was Abraham's religion before God called him? | GotQuestions.orgIs an eclipse a sign of the end times? | GotQuestions.org How is the date for Easter determined? | GotQuestions.org Moon: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Moon: Feast of the New Moon: Traffic at the Time of, Prohibited Moon: Joseph's Dream Concerning The Moon of Changeableness of the World The Moon of Fairness of the Church The Moon of Glory of Christ in the Church The Moon: (Becoming Blood) of Judgments The Moon: (Withdrawing Her Light) Deep Calamities The Moon: Appointed by an Ordinance for Ever The Moon: Appointed for a Light in the Firmament The Moon: Appointed for Signs and Seasons The Moon: Appointed for the Benefit of All The Moon: Appointed: To Divide Day from Night The Moon: Appointed: To Light the Earth by Night The Moon: Appointed: To Rule the Night The Moon: Called the Lesser Light The Moon: First Appearance of, a Time of Festivity The Moon: Has a Glory of Its Own The Moon: Influences Vegetation The Moon: Lunacy Attributed to the Influence of The Moon: Miracles Connected With: Signs In, Before the Destruction of Jerusalem The Moon: Miracles Connected With: Standing Still in Ajalon The Moon: Worshipped As the Queen of Heaven The Moon: Worshipping of Condemned As Atheism The Moon: Worshipping of Forbidden to the Jews The Moon: Worshipping of Jews often Guilty of The Moon: Worshipping of Jews Punished For The Moon: Worshipping of To be Punished With Death Related Terms Moon-ornaments (2 Occurrences) |
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