Key Events — Joshua 5

5 events

1
The Fear of the Canaanites
The kings of the Amorites and Canaanites lose heart and their spirit fails because of the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites.
Theological significance
This event highlights God's power and the fear it instills in Israel's enemies, demonstrating His sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel.
In the broader story
The fear of the Canaanites sets the stage for Israel's conquest of the Promised Land, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham regarding his descendants.
Key verses
- Joshua 5:1
Related passages
- Exodus 15:14-16 (Fear of the nations due to God's mighty acts)
- Deuteronomy 2:25 (God's promise to instill fear in the nations)
2
Circumcision at Gilgal
God commands Joshua to circumcise the new generation of Israelites who had not been circumcised during the wilderness wanderings.
Theological significance
Circumcision is a sign of the covenant between God and Israel, symbolizing the people's consecration and commitment to God.
In the broader story
This act renews the covenant relationship with God, preparing the Israelites spiritually for the conquest of Canaan.
Key verses
- Joshua 5:2-9
Related passages
- Genesis 17:10-14 (The covenant of circumcision with Abraham)
- Exodus 4:24-26 (Moses and the importance of circumcision)
3
The First Passover in Canaan
The Israelites celebrate the Passover at Gilgal, marking their first observance of this feast in the Promised Land.
Theological significance
The Passover commemorates God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, reinforcing His faithfulness and the continuity of His salvation plan.
In the broader story
Celebrating Passover in Canaan signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to bring Israel into a land flowing with milk and honey.
Key verses
- Joshua 5:10-12
Related passages
- Exodus 12:1-14 (The institution of Passover)
- Deuteronomy 16:1-8 (Instructions for Passover)
4
The Cessation of Manna
After eating the produce of the land, the manna that had sustained Israel in the wilderness ceases.
Theological significance
The cessation of manna signifies a transition from God's miraculous provision in the wilderness to the abundance of the Promised Land.
In the broader story
This transition marks a new phase in Israel's journey, emphasizing reliance on God's provision in different forms.
Key verses
- Joshua 5:12
Related passages
- Exodus 16:35 (Manna provided in the wilderness)
- Deuteronomy 8:3 (Dependence on God's provision)
5
The Commander of the Lord's Army
Joshua encounters a mysterious figure identified as the commander of the Lord's army, who instructs him to remove his sandals on holy ground.
Theological significance
This encounter emphasizes God's presence and leadership in the upcoming battles, affirming that the conquest is under divine command.
In the broader story
Similar to Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush, this event underscores the holiness of God's presence and His direct involvement in Israel's mission.
Key verses
- Joshua 5:13-15
Related passages
- Exodus 3:5 (Moses and the burning bush)
- Revelation 19:11-16 (Christ as the leader of heavenly armies)

In the order the chapter tells them. The corpus records sequence, not dates — biblical chronology is contested, and this does not take a position on it.

← Read Joshua 5 in full

Key Events — Joshua 5

The Fear of the Canaanites

Circumcision at Gilgal

The First Passover in Canaan

The Cessation of Manna

The Commander of the Lord's Army