Topical Bible: Passover: Observation of, Renewed by the Israelites Upon Entering Canaan

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The Passover, a pivotal feast in the Jewish calendar, commemorates the Israelites' deliverance from Egyptian bondage. This observance, instituted by God through Moses, is detailed in the Book of Exodus. Upon entering the Promised Land, the Israelites renewed this sacred tradition, marking a significant moment in their covenantal relationship with God.

Biblical Background

The Passover was first instituted in Egypt on the eve of the Exodus. God commanded the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb without blemish and apply its blood to the doorposts and lintels of their homes. This act served as a sign for the Lord to "pass over" their houses during the final plague—the death of the firstborn (Exodus 12:1-13). The Passover was to be observed annually as a lasting ordinance, a reminder of God's deliverance and faithfulness.

Renewal in Canaan

Upon entering Canaan, the Israelites renewed the observance of Passover, as recorded in the Book of Joshua. After crossing the Jordan River and setting up camp at Gilgal, the Israelites celebrated Passover on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, in the plains of Jericho (Joshua 5:10). This event marked the first Passover in the Promised Land and symbolized a new beginning for the nation.

Significance of Renewal

The renewal of Passover in Canaan held profound significance for the Israelites. It was a reaffirmation of their identity as God's chosen people and a reminder of His covenant promises. The observance underscored the continuity of God's faithfulness from the time of the Exodus to their settlement in the land He had promised to their forefathers.

Spiritual Implications

The renewal of Passover upon entering Canaan also had deep spiritual implications. It was a call to holiness and obedience, as the Israelites were reminded of the laws and statutes given to them by God. The observance served as a time of reflection on God's past deliverance and a commitment to trust in His future provision.

Scriptural Reference

The account of the renewed observance of Passover in Canaan is found in Joshua 5:10-12 : "On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, the Israelites kept the Passover. The day after the Passover, that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land: unleavened bread and roasted grain. The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land; there was no longer any manna for the Israelites, but that year they ate the produce of Canaan."

Conclusion

The renewal of Passover by the Israelites upon entering Canaan was a momentous event that reinforced their covenant with God. It was a celebration of deliverance, a reminder of divine faithfulness, and a call to live in accordance with God's commands as they settled in the land of promise.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 5:10,11
And the children of Israel encamped in Gilgal, and kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the month at even in the plains of Jericho.
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