Old Testament
Joshua 6:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God instructs the Israelites on how to conquer the city of Jericho.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
When they make a long blast with the ram's horn and you hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people must shout loudly. The wall of the city will fall down flat, and each person will ascend straight ahead.
And it shall come to pass, that when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when ye hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city shall fall down flat, and the people shall ascend up every man straight before him.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the Israelites on how to conquer the city of Jericho. They are to blow a ram's horn and shout loudly after a long blast. This act of faith is crucial; it symbolizes their trust in God's power. The promise is that the walls of Jericho will collapse, allowing the Israelites to enter the city. The command emphasizes the importance of obedience and collective action among the people. Each person is to move forward into the city, highlighting unity and purpose in their mission. This moment illustrates the miraculous intervention of God in response to the faith and obedience of His people, showing that victory comes not from human strength but from divine assistance. The act of shouting and the sound of the trumpet serve as a powerful reminder of the spiritual warfare that the Israelites are engaged in, where faith and obedience lead to triumph over seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Joshua 6:5 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of faith and obedience in our lives. Just as the Israelites followed God's instructions, we too should trust in God's plans, even when they seem unconventional. Collective worship and unity can lead to breakthroughs in our challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 6:5 mean?
Joshua 6:5 describes God's instructions to the Israelites on how to conquer Jericho. They are to blow a ram's horn and shout loudly, symbolizing their faith and obedience, which will lead to the miraculous collapse of the city walls.
What is the significance of the ram's horn in Joshua 6:5?
The ram's horn in Joshua 6:5 represents a call to worship and a signal for action. Its sound marks the moment of faith and collective effort that leads to God's intervention and the victory over Jericho.
How does Joshua 6:5 relate to faith and obedience?
Joshua 6:5 illustrates that faith and obedience are crucial for experiencing God's power. The Israelites' willingness to follow God's unusual command leads to their victory, showing that trust in God can overcome obstacles.
What lesson can we learn from Joshua 6:5?
From Joshua 6:5, we learn that following God's guidance, even when it seems strange, can lead to significant breakthroughs. It highlights the importance of collective worship and unity in achieving goals.

The Book of Joshua
1: God Commissions Joshua
After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.
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