Old Testament
Joshua 4:20
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Joshua set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan at Gilgal.
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And those twelve stones, which they took out of Jordan, did Joshua pitch in Gilgal.
What Joshua 4:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joshua is fulfilling God's command by setting up twelve stones at Gilgal, which were taken from the Jordan River. These stones serve as a memorial to remind the Israelites of how God miraculously stopped the river's flow, allowing them to cross on dry ground. This act of remembrance is significant as it reinforces the importance of acknowledging God's power and faithfulness in their journey. The stones symbolize the unity of the twelve tribes of Israel, each represented by one stone. By placing them at Gilgal, Joshua ensures that future generations will ask about the stones, providing an opportunity to recount the story of God's deliverance. This act not only commemorates a pivotal moment in Israel's history but also strengthens the community's faith and identity as God's chosen people. The physical presence of the stones serves as a tangible reminder of God's promises and the importance of remembering His deeds in our lives.
How to apply Joshua 4:20 to your life
We can create our own reminders of God's faithfulness in our lives, whether through journaling, creating art, or sharing stories with others. These practices help us remember God's past actions and encourage our faith during challenging times.
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: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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Keep studying Joshua 4:20
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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 is the significance of the twelve stones in Joshua 4:20?
The twelve stones set up by Joshua at Gilgal symbolize the twelve tribes of Israel, serving as a memorial to God's miraculous intervention when He stopped the Jordan River's flow. This act of remembrance is crucial for future generations, reminding them of God's faithfulness and power in their history.
How can we apply the message of Joshua 4:20 in our lives today?
We can apply the message of Joshua 4:20 by creating our own memorials to remember God's faithfulness. This could be through journaling significant moments, creating art, or sharing testimonies with others. Such practices help us reflect on God's past actions and strengthen our faith during difficult times.
Why did Joshua choose Gilgal for the stones?
Joshua chose Gilgal as the location for the stones because it was the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River. Setting the stones there made it a central place for remembrance, ensuring that the story of God's deliverance would be shared among the people and passed down through generations.
What does the act of setting up stones represent in the Bible?
In the Bible, setting up stones often represents a physical reminder of God's promises and acts of deliverance. It serves as a tangible symbol of faith, encouraging believers to remember and recount God's faithfulness in their lives and the lives of their communities.
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