Topical Encyclopedia
The prophecy concerning the rebuilding of Jericho is a significant event in biblical history, illustrating the fulfillment of divine pronouncements and the consequences of defying God's decrees. This prophecy is rooted in the aftermath of the Israelites' conquest of Jericho, as recorded in the Book of Joshua.
Background: The Fall of JerichoJericho was the first city conquered by the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. The miraculous fall of Jericho's walls, as described in
Joshua 6, was a testament to God's power and faithfulness to His people. Following the city's destruction, Joshua pronounced a solemn curse upon anyone who would attempt to rebuild Jericho:
"At that time Joshua pronounced this solemn oath: 'Cursed before the LORD is the man who undertakes to rebuild this city, Jericho: At the cost of his firstborn son he will lay its foundations; at the cost of his youngest he will set up its gates.'" (
Joshua 6:26)
Fulfillment of the ProphecyThe fulfillment of Joshua's curse is recorded in
1 Kings 16:34, during the reign of King Ahab of Israel. Hiel of Bethel undertook the rebuilding of Jericho, and the prophecy was fulfilled with tragic precision:
"In his days, Hiel the Bethelite rebuilt Jericho. At the cost of Abiram his firstborn, he laid its foundation, and at the cost of Segub his youngest, he set up its gates, according to the word of the LORD spoken through Joshua son of Nun." (
1 Kings 16:34)
This fulfillment underscores the seriousness of God's word and the dire consequences of disregarding His commands. Hiel's actions resulted in the loss of his sons, Abiram and Segub, precisely as Joshua had foretold.
Theological ImplicationsThe prophecy concerning the rebuilding of Jericho serves as a powerful reminder of the authority and reliability of God's word. It highlights the importance of obedience to divine instructions and the certainty of divine justice. The account of Hiel's defiance and its consequences illustrates the principle that God's pronouncements are not to be taken lightly, and that His warnings carry weight and certainty.
Furthermore, this event reflects the broader biblical theme of the consequences of sin and disobedience. It serves as a cautionary tale for future generations, emphasizing the need for reverence and adherence to God's commands.
Historical and Archaeological ConsiderationsThe historical and archaeological context of Jericho provides additional insight into the fulfillment of this prophecy. Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of multiple destructions and rebuildings of the city, consistent with the biblical narrative.
While the specific details of Hiel's rebuilding efforts are not extensively documented outside the biblical text, the account in 1 Kings aligns with the historical understanding of the region during the time of the divided monarchy in Israel.
ConclusionThe prophecy concerning the rebuilding of Jericho and its fulfillment in the days of Hiel the Bethelite stands as a testament to the enduring truth of God's word. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of defying divine decrees and the certainty of prophetic fulfillment.
Nave's Topical Index
Joshua 6:26And Joshua adjured them at that time, saying, Cursed be the man before the LORD, that rises up and builds this city Jericho: he shall lay the foundation thereof in his firstborn, and in his youngest son shall he set up the gates of it.
Nave's Topical Index1 Kings 16:34
In his days did Hiel the Bethelite build Jericho: he laid the foundation thereof in Abiram his firstborn, and set up the gates thereof in his youngest son Segub, according to the word of the LORD, which he spoke by Joshua the son of Nun.
Nave's Topical Index
Resources
How can we trust that biblical prophecy can indeed predict the future? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is prophecy? What does it mean to prophesy? | GotQuestions.orgIs the concept of personal prophecy biblical? | GotQuestions.orgProphecy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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