“And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of rams’ horns: and the seventh day ye shall compass the city seven times, and the priests shall blow with the trumpets.”
Context:The book of Joshua records the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, following the death of Moses. In Joshua 6, the Israelites were preparing to conquer the city of Jericho, the first major city they encountered in their conquest.
The Ark of the Covenant:The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that symbolized the presence of God among the Israelites. It contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments and held great significance in their worship. In verse 4, it is mentioned that the priests would bear the ark, signifying God’s presence and leading in the conquest.
The Trumpets:Seven priests were appointed to carry seven trumpets made of rams’ horns before the ark. These trumpets had both ceremonial and practical purposes. They were used to signal important events, such as the announcement of a new king, and they were also used in warfare to rally troops and create a unified sound. In this context, the trumpets were to be blown as an act of faith and obedience, symbolizing the Israelites’ trust in God’s power to deliver Jericho into their hands.
The Number Seven:The number seven is significant throughout this passage. Seven priests, seven trumpets, and seven compassings of the city on the seventh day are all mentioned. In biblical numerology, the number seven often represents completeness, perfection, or divine intervention. By emphasizing the number seven, God was emphasizing that His plan for the conquest of Jericho was complete and perfect. It also required complete obedience and faith from the Israelites.
The Strategy:According to the instructions given by God, the Israelites were to march around the city of Jericho once a day for six days, with the priests blowing the trumpets. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, and when the priests blew a long blast on the trumpets, the people were to shout, and the walls of Jericho would collapse. This unconventional strategy demonstrated the power of God and the Israelites’ dependence on Him rather than their own strength.
Faith and Obedience:Joshua 6:4 highlights the importance of faith and obedience in carrying out God’s instructions. The Israelites had to trust that God would fulfill His promise to give them victory over Jericho. Their obedience to march around the city and blow the trumpets demonstrated their faith in God’s plan, even though it may have seemed illogical or unconventional. Through their faith and obedience, they witnessed a miraculous victory as the walls of Jericho indeed collapsed, paving the way for the Israelites to conquer the land.
Application:Joshua 6:4 reminds us of the significance of faith, obedience, and trust in God’s plan for our lives. It encourages us to follow God’s instructions, even when they may seem unconventional or challenging. Just as the Israelites experienced victory through their obedience, we too can experience God’s faithfulness and provision when we trust Him and act in obedience to His Word. Remember to read the surrounding verses and the entire chapter for a comprehensive understanding of the context and the broader message conveyed in the book of Joshua.
