Topical Bible: The Moon: Miracles Connected With: Standing Still in Ajalon

◄ The Moon: Miracles Connected With: Standing Still in Ajalon ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The moon, a celestial body created by God to govern the night (Genesis 1:16), plays a significant role in one of the most extraordinary miracles recorded in the Bible. This event, where the moon is said to have stood still, is found in the book of Joshua and is a testament to God's sovereign power over creation.

Biblical Account

The miracle of the moon standing still occurred during a pivotal battle in the conquest of Canaan, led by Joshua, the successor of Moses. The narrative is detailed in Joshua 10:12-14. As the Israelites fought against the Amorite coalition, Joshua prayed for divine intervention to extend the daylight, allowing the Israelites more time to secure victory. 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 Ajalon.' 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."

This miraculous event is described as unprecedented, with the text emphasizing that "there has been no day like it before or since, when the LORD listened to the voice of a man, for the LORD fought for Israel" (Joshua 10:14).

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, the miracle of the moon standing still underscores several key themes in the biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights God's direct intervention in human history, demonstrating His willingness to alter the natural order to fulfill His purposes and promises to His people. This event serves as a powerful reminder of God's omnipotence and His control over the cosmos.

Secondly, the miracle illustrates the efficacy of prayer and the faith of Joshua. Joshua's bold request and God's response exemplify the intimate relationship between God and His chosen leaders, as well as the importance of faith and reliance on divine power in the face of overwhelming odds.

Historical and Scientific Considerations

The account of the moon standing still has been the subject of much discussion and debate among scholars, historians, and scientists. Some propose that the event may have been a poetic or symbolic description rather than a literal astronomical occurrence. Others suggest natural phenomena, such as an eclipse or atmospheric conditions, as possible explanations. However, from a conservative Christian viewpoint, the event is accepted as a literal miracle, affirming the belief in the supernatural acts of God as recorded in Scripture.

Cultural and Literary Context

The reference to the "Book of Jashar" in Joshua 10:13 suggests that this event was well-known and celebrated in ancient Israelite culture. The Book of Jashar, though not part of the canonical Bible, is believed to have been a collection of songs or poems recounting heroic deeds. The inclusion of this reference indicates the significance of the miracle in the collective memory and identity of the Israelite people.

In summary, the miracle of the moon standing still in Ajalon is a profound demonstration of God's power and faithfulness. It serves as a testament to the belief in divine intervention and the miraculous within the biblical tradition, reinforcing the themes of faith, prayer, and God's sovereignty over creation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Joshua 10:12,13
Then 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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook