“When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city. ” Joshua 5 :20
Zechariah 2:4
This passage is from the Book of Joshua in the Bible, specifically Joshua 6:2-5. It describes the divine instructions given to Joshua for the conquest of the city of Jericho. Let’s break it down.
The context is the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land after their escape from slavery in Egypt. Jericho was a well-fortified city with thick walls, and it stood as a significant obstacle on their path.
In verse 2, the Lord assures Joshua that He has already delivered Jericho into his hands, including its king and fighting men. This sets the tone for a miraculous victory orchestrated by divine intervention.
The unusual strategy for taking Jericho is then revealed in verses 3-5. Joshua is instructed to march around the city once a day for six days with all the armed men. Seven priests carrying trumpets made of rams’ horns are to lead the procession, walking in front of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark was a sacred chest believed to symbolize the presence of God among the Israelites.
On the seventh day, the instructions become more elaborate. The Israelites are to march around the city seven times, and the priests are to blow their trumpets. Then, when they hear a long blast on the trumpets, the entire army is to give a loud shout. The result promised is that the walls of Jericho will collapse, allowing the Israelites to enter and conquer the city.
Now, let’s delve into the significance of this strategy. On a practical level, this plan may have seemed unconventional and even illogical. However, it was a test of faith and obedience for the Israelites. Following God’s commands, even when they seem unconventional, demonstrates trust in His wisdom and power.
The use of the Ark of the Covenant and the trumpets emphasizes the divine authority behind the plan. The Ark represented the presence of God, and the trumpets were used in various biblical contexts to signal important events or announcements.
The act of marching around the city symbolizes the Israelites’ commitment to God’s plan and their willingness to obey, even in the face of uncertainty. It also served as a public declaration of their faith in God’s ability to fulfill His promises.
The climax of the strategy is the combination of the trumpets, the loud shout, and the collapsing walls. This supernatural event underscores the idea that the victory is not achieved by human strength or military strategy alone but by the divine intervention of God.
In summary, this passage from Joshua portrays a unique and faith-driven strategy for the conquest of Jericho. It highlights the importance of obedience, faith, and trust in following divine guidance, even when the prescribed actions may seem unconventional. The miraculous nature of the victory reinforces the idea that God is the ultimate source of power and deliverance for the Israelites.