The twelve stones from the Jordan are set up at Gilgal as an eternal memorial so that when future generations ask what they mean, Israel will recount how the LORD dried up the Jordan for the ark of the covenant, just as He had dried the Red Sea. The forty thousand armed men from Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh cross before the LORD for battle, and when the priests carrying the ark ascend from the riverbed, the waters return to their flood stage. That day the LORD exalts Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they reverence him as they had Moses all his days.
Read Joshua Chapter 4 Summary
Original
Characters in This Chapter
Joshua
Successor of Moses who led Israel in conquering and settling the Promised Land
Caleb
Faithful spy who received Hebron as his inheritance at age 85
Rahab
Canaanite woman who hid the spies and was saved with her family
Achan
Israelite who sinned by taking devoted things from Jericho, causing Israel's defeat at Ai
Joshua the High Priest
First High Priest of the Second Temple
Moses
Prophet and Lawgiver
Manasseh
King of Judah who Repented
Places in This Chapter
Jericho
View on MapFirst city conquered, whose walls fell miraculously after Israel marched around them
Jordan River
View on MapMiraculously crossed on dry ground, marking Israel's entry into the Promised Land
Red Sea
View on MapThe Red Sea (Hebrew: Yam Suph, "Sea of Reeds") was miraculously parted by God to allow the Israelites to escape from Egypt. The waters then returned to drown Pharaoh's army. This event became central to Israel's identity and is celebrated throughout Scripture as God's mighty act of salvation.
Position in Book
Entering the LandChapters 1-5
Joshua commissioned, spies sent to Jericho, crossing the Jordan, circumcision at Gilgal, and the Passover.
Conquering the LandChapters 6-12
Dividing the LandChapters 13-21
Serving the LordChapters 22-24