Old Testament
Joshua 6:16
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At the seventh time around, when the priests blew the trumpets, Joshua told the people, "Shout, for the LORD has given you the city!"
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And it came to pass at the seventh time, when the priests blew with the trumpets, Joshua said unto the people, Shout; for the LORD hath given you the city.
What Joshua 6:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joshua instructs the Israelites to shout after the priests blow the trumpets for the seventh time around the city of Jericho. This moment is significant because it marks the culmination of their obedience to God's command. The act of shouting symbolizes their faith and trust in God's promise that He has already given them the city. The seventh time around is important as it represents completion and divine perfection in biblical terms. The Israelites had followed God's unusual strategy of marching around the city for six days, and on the seventh day, they completed the final lap. Their shout is a response to God's assurance, demonstrating that victory comes through faith and obedience. This moment illustrates the power of collective faith and the importance of following God's instructions, even when they seem unconventional. It serves as a reminder that God can deliver on His promises in unexpected ways, and that perseverance in faith can lead to miraculous outcomes.
How to apply Joshua 6:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's promises and to act in faith, even when His plans seem unusual. We should remain obedient and united in our efforts, knowing that God can bring about victory in our lives when we follow His guidance wholeheartedly.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Walls of Jericho (Joshua 6:1–27)
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Joshua
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Joshua 6:16
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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 6:16 mean?
Joshua 6:16 describes the moment when Joshua instructs the Israelites to shout after the priests blow the trumpets for the seventh time around Jericho. This signifies their faith in God's promise that He has given them the city, marking the culmination of their obedience.
What is the significance of the seventh time in Joshua 6:16?
The seventh time represents completion and divine perfection in biblical terms. It highlights the importance of following God's instructions fully, as the Israelites' shout after the seventh lap leads to their victory over Jericho.
What does the shout in Joshua 6:16 symbolize?
The shout in Joshua 6:16 symbolizes the Israelites' faith and trust in God's promise. It reflects their collective belief that God would deliver the city to them as He had assured.
How does Joshua 6:16 relate to faith and obedience?
Joshua 6:16 illustrates that faith and obedience are crucial for experiencing God's promises. The Israelites' act of shouting after following God's unusual strategy demonstrates their commitment to His guidance.
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