Old Testament
Joshua 3:17
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The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firmly on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, and all the Israelites crossed over on dry ground until everyone had completely crossed the river.
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And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the midst of Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed clean over Jordan.
What Joshua 3:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a miraculous moment where the priests, who are carrying the Ark of the Covenant, stand in the middle of the Jordan River. The water has been stopped, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This event signifies God's power and faithfulness to His people as they enter the Promised Land. The priests' firm stance represents their role as mediators between God and the people, demonstrating trust in God's promise. The fact that all the Israelites crossed safely emphasizes the collective journey of the community, highlighting unity and obedience to God's command. This moment is a pivotal point in Israel's history, marking the transition from wandering in the desert to entering a land promised to them. It reassures believers of God's presence and guidance in challenging situations, reminding them that faith can lead to miraculous outcomes.
How to apply Joshua 3:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's guidance during difficult times. Just as the Israelites relied on God's promise to cross the Jordan, we too can have faith that He will lead us through our challenges. Standing firm in our faith can lead to miraculous outcomes.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Crossing the Jordan (Joshua 3:1–4:24)
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Joshua
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 3:17 mean?
Joshua 3:17 describes a miraculous event where the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stand in the Jordan River, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This signifies God's power and faithfulness as they enter the Promised Land.
What is the significance of the Ark of the Covenant in Joshua 3:17?
In Joshua 3:17, the Ark of the Covenant represents God's presence among His people. The priests carrying it demonstrate their role as mediators, and their firm stance in the river symbolizes trust in God's promise.
How does Joshua 3:17 relate to faith and obedience?
Joshua 3:17 highlights the themes of faith and obedience as the Israelites trust God's command to cross the Jordan. Their successful crossing on dry ground reinforces the idea that faith in God's promises can lead to miraculous outcomes.
What can we learn from Joshua 3:17 about community?
Joshua 3:17 emphasizes the collective journey of the Israelites as they cross the Jordan together. This moment illustrates the importance of unity and shared faith in overcoming challenges as a community.
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