The March Around Jericho is a pivotal event in the Old Testament, recorded in the Book of Joshua, chapters 5 and 6. This event marks a significant moment in the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His covenant people.

Historical Context

After the death of Moses, Joshua assumed leadership of the Israelites. God commanded Joshua to lead the people across the Jordan River into Canaan, the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. Jericho, a fortified city, was the first major obstacle in their path. The city's walls were formidable, and its strategic location made it a key target for the Israelites.

Divine Instructions

God provided Joshua with specific instructions for the conquest of Jericho. The plan was unconventional, emphasizing faith and obedience over military might. The Lord said to Joshua, "See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its mighty men of valor" (Joshua 6:2). The Israelites were to march around the city once a day for six days, with seven priests carrying trumpets of rams' horns before the Ark of the Covenant. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, and the priests were to blow the trumpets.

The March

The Israelites followed God's instructions precisely. For six days, they circled the city in silence, except for the sound of the trumpets. On the seventh day, they rose early and marched around Jericho seven times. At Joshua's command, the people shouted, and the priests blew the trumpets. "When the people heard the sound of the trumpet, they raised a great shout, and the wall collapsed. So each man charged straight ahead, and they took the city" (Joshua 6:20).

The Fall of Jericho

The miraculous fall of Jericho's walls was a testament to God's power and the importance of faith and obedience. The Israelites devoted the city to destruction, as commanded by God, sparing only Rahab and her family. Rahab, a prostitute who had hidden the Israelite spies, was saved because of her faith and actions (Joshua 6:17).

Theological Significance

The March Around Jericho underscores several key theological themes:

1. Faith and Obedience: The Israelites' victory was not due to their military prowess but their faith in God's promises and obedience to His commands. This event highlights the principle that faith, coupled with obedience, leads to divine intervention and victory.

2. God's Sovereignty: The fall of Jericho demonstrates God's sovereignty over nations and His ability to fulfill His promises. It serves as a reminder that God's plans are accomplished in His timing and manner.

3. Judgment and Mercy: While Jericho faced judgment, Rahab's account illustrates God's mercy. Her faith led to her salvation, prefiguring the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.

4. Covenant Faithfulness: The event reaffirms God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel. The conquest of Jericho was a step toward the fulfillment of the promise to give the land of Canaan to the descendants of Abraham.

The March Around Jericho remains a powerful narrative of faith, obedience, and divine intervention, serving as an enduring testament to God's power and faithfulness in the lives of His people.