Joshua 5:10

KJV

¶ And the children of Israel encamped in Gilgal, and kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the month at even in the plains of Jericho.

KJV (with Strong's)

And the children {H1121} of Israel {H3478} encamped {H2583} in Gilgal {H1537}, and kept {H6213} the passover {H6453} on the fourteenth {H702}{H6240} day {H3117} of the month {H2320} at even {H6153} in the plains {H6160} of Jericho {H3405}.

Complete Jewish Bible

The people of Isra'el camped at Gilgal, and they observed Pesach on the fourteenth day of the month, there on the plains of Yericho.

Berean Standard Bible

On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while the Israelites were camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, they kept the Passover.

American Standard Version

And the children of Israel encamped in Gilgal; and they kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the month at even in the plains of Jericho.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 5:10 encapsulates a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking their definitive entry into the Promised Land. After the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River and a crucial act of covenant renewal through circumcision at Gilgal, the Israelites, a new generation born in the wilderness, faithfully observe the Passover. This sacred observance, performed in the plains of Jericho, signifies their spiritual readiness for the impending conquest of Canaan, reaffirming their identity as God's covenant people and underscoring His unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It is a profound act of worship that anchors their future in their redemptive past.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the narrative of Israel's entry into Canaan, serving as a crucial bridge between their miraculous past and their divinely ordained future. It immediately follows the awe-inspiring [crossing of the Jordan River](/joshua/3 "Joshua 3 - The Miraculous Jordan Crossing"), an event that powerfully reaffirmed God's presence with Joshua and His people, echoing the Red Sea deliverance. Prior to the Passover, the narrative emphasizes the [mass circumcision of all Israelite males](/joshua/5-2 "Joshua 5:2 - Circumcision at Gilgal") born in the wilderness, an essential act of covenant renewal that cleansed the nation from the reproach of Egypt (as noted in [Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Joshua 5:9 - The Reproach Rolled Away")). This spiritual purification and covenant affirmation are presented as prerequisites for the subsequent military campaigns, most notably the dramatic [fall of Jericho](/joshua/6 "Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho"), which swiftly follows this period of consecration.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The encampment at Gilgal was not merely a convenient stopping point but a divinely appointed and strategically significant location. Situated in the Jordan Valley, it served as Israel's primary base of operations for the initial phases of the Canaanite conquest. The name "Gilgal" itself, meaning "rolling" (as in "rolling away" the reproach of Egypt through circumcision), imbued the site with profound symbolic meaning as a place of spiritual transformation and renewed identity. The observance of the Passover, a foundational festival commemorating Israel's miraculous deliverance from slavery in Egypt ([Exodus 12:1-14](/exodus/12-1-14 "Exodus 12:1-14 - Institution of the Passover")), was a deeply ingrained religious and cultural practice. Performing it in the Promised Land, after forty years of wilderness wandering and immediately following a national covenant renewal, was an immensely powerful declaration of their status as a free people under God's sovereignty, now ready to claim their promised inheritance.
* **Key Themes:** Joshua 5:10 powerfully encapsulates several central themes that resonate throughout the book of Joshua and the broader biblical narrative. **Obedience** is paramount, as Israel meticulously observes God's command to keep the Passover, an act of worship and submission that demonstrates their renewed commitment. This act is intrinsically linked to the theme of **Covenant Faithfulness**, highlighting both God's unwavering commitment to His promises to Abraham and Israel's responsive adherence to their covenant obligations. The Passover itself embodies the theme of **Remembrance and Deliverance**, serving as a potent reminder of God's mighty hand in their liberation from Egypt and His continued guidance into the Promised Land. Furthermore, this event marks a significant **Transition and New Beginning**, symbolizing the definitive end of the wilderness generation's journey and the commencement of a new era for the next generation in Canaan. This new phase of divine provision is underscored by the cessation of the manna the very next day, as Israel began to eat the produce of the land, as detailed in [Joshua 5:12](/joshua/5-12 "Joshua 5:12 - The Manna Ceases").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Encamped (Hebrew, _chânâh_):** This verb (H2583) signifies "to pitch a tent," "to encamp," or "to settle." In this context, it denotes more than a temporary stop; it describes the establishment of a fixed, strategic base of operations for the Israelites in the Promised Land. This deliberate positioning at Gilgal, divinely guided, underscores its significance as a central hub for both spiritual renewal and the launch of military campaigns, signifying Israel's successful and permanent entry into the land.
* **Gilgal (Hebrew, _Gilgâl_):** More than a mere geographical location, Gilgal (H1537) carries profound symbolic weight. As explicitly stated in [Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Joshua 5:9 - The Reproach Rolled Away"), its name is linked to the "rolling away" of the reproach of Egypt through the mass circumcision. Thus, Gilgal becomes a sacred site of covenant renewal, national purification, and the shedding of past shame. It functions as the spiritual and physical gateway to the Promised Land, where Israel re-establishes its identity and consecration before God.
* **Passover (Hebrew, _peçach_):** This term (H6453) refers to the annual festival commemorating God's climactic deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt, specifically the night when the angel of death "passed over" the homes marked with the blood of the lamb ([Exodus 12:13](/exodus/12-13 "Exodus 12:13 - The Blood Sign")). Its observance in Canaan is not merely a historical reenactment but a profound act of covenant affirmation, acknowledging God's ongoing faithfulness in bringing them into the land He promised. It signifies their continued reliance on His redemptive power and their identity as a people redeemed by His mighty hand.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"¶ And the children of Israel encamped in Gilgal,"**: This opening clause establishes the critical geographical and strategic context. After the miraculous crossing of the Jordan, Gilgal becomes Israel's first established base in Canaan. This encampment is not accidental but divinely ordained, serving as a central point for both their spiritual renewal (through circumcision and Passover) and the staging of their military operations. It signifies the successful and secure entry into the land of promise.
* **"and kept the passover"**: This is the central action of the verse, emphasizing Israel's faithful obedience to God's long-standing command. The verb "kept" (וַיַּעֲשׂוּ, _vayya'asu_, "and they made/performed") highlights the active, ritualistic observance of this foundational festival. It is a profound act of worship, remembrance, and covenant renewal, performed by a new generation now fully consecrated to God and ready to inherit His promises.
* **"on the fourteenth day of the month at even"**: This precise detail underscores Israel's meticulous adherence to the Mosaic Law regarding the timing of the Passover, as prescribed in [Exodus 12:6](/exodus/12-6 "Exodus 12:6 - Timing of the Passover Lamb"). This precision demonstrates their commitment to divine instruction and their return to proper covenant practice after the deviations and challenges of the wilderness wanderings. It signifies a nation aligning itself fully with God's commands as they step into their inheritance.
* **"in the plains of Jericho."**: This final phrase provides the specific geographical setting, placing the event in the immediate vicinity of the first major city to be conquered. This proximity highlights the intimate connection between their spiritual consecration and their impending military mission. It powerfully suggests that divine favor and success in conquest are predicated on their obedience, covenant faithfulness, and right relationship with God.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 5:10 employs several significant literary devices that enrich its meaning. **Symbolism** is profoundly evident, with Gilgal serving as a potent symbol of new beginnings, covenant renewal, and the "rolling away" of past reproach and shame. The Passover itself functions as a powerful **Symbol** of God's redemptive power, His unwavering covenant faithfulness, and Israel's identity as His chosen and delivered people. The verse also acts as a crucial **Narrative Transition**, marking the definitive shift from the wilderness wandering period—characterized by nomadic life and miraculous manna—to the era of conquest and settlement in the Promised Land, where they would eat the produce of the land. This transition is further reinforced by the subsequent cessation of the manna. Additionally, there is an element of **Echo** or **Repetition**, as this Passover observance intentionally mirrors the original Passover in Egypt, reinforcing the continuity of God's redemptive plan across generations and solidifying Israel's historical and theological identity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 5:10 stands as a profound theological cornerstone, seamlessly linking Israel's past deliverance with their future inheritance. It powerfully illustrates that God's promises are not merely fulfilled through miraculous displays of power, such as the Jordan crossing, but also demand and are actualized through the obedient response of His people. The Passover, an annual remembrance of God's foundational redemptive act, becomes a present reality in the Promised Land, serving as a constant reminder to Israel that their very existence, their identity, and their future success are inextricably rooted in God's faithfulness and their adherence to His covenant. This act of corporate worship, strategically performed before any military engagement, underscores the timeless biblical principle that spiritual consecration and right relationship with God precede and enable true victory. It is a testament to God's patient, redemptive leading and Israel's renewed commitment to walk in His ways, trusting Him for the battles ahead.

* [Exodus 12:24-27](/exodus/12-24-27 "Exodus 12:24-27 - Passover as a Perpetual Ordinance")
* [Deuteronomy 6:20-25](/deuteronomy/6-20-25 "Deuteronomy 6:20-25 - Explaining the Significance of God's Commands")
* [1 Corinthians 5:7-8](/1_corinthians/5-7-8 "1 Corinthians 5:7-8 - Christ Our Passover Lamb")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 5:10 offers profound and enduring insights for believers today, reminding us that our spiritual journey is a dynamic interplay of divine faithfulness and human obedience. Just as Israel paused to remember God's mighty deliverance and renew their covenant before entering their inheritance, we too are called to regularly reflect on God's past mercies and reaffirm our commitment to Him as we navigate new seasons, callings, and challenges. This verse highlights the indispensable importance of spiritual consecration and intentional obedience as foundational to experiencing God's blessings and fulfilling His purposes for our lives. It teaches us that true progress in our "promised land" – whether it be a new ministry, a difficult personal season, or a pursuit of deeper spiritual growth – often begins with a deliberate act of worship, remembrance, and renewed commitment to God's will. Our identity as God's redeemed people is not solely defined by what He has done for us, but also by our responsive walk of faith and obedience in His presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently experiencing a "new beginning" or facing a "promised land" that requires intentional spiritual preparation?**
* **How does remembering God's past faithfulness in your life strengthen your trust and courage for present and future challenges?**
* **What specific acts of obedience or covenant renewal might God be calling you to before you can fully "take possession" of His promises for you?**
* **How does corporate worship and shared remembrance of God's deliverance strengthen your identity and purpose as part of His people today?**

### FAQ

**Why was Gilgal chosen as the encampment site, and what is its significance?**

Answer: Gilgal was chosen for both strategic and profound theological reasons. Strategically, its location near the Jordan River and the key city of Jericho made it an ideal and defensible base for the initial military campaigns. Theologically, Gilgal became a site of immense covenantal significance. In [Joshua 5:9](/joshua/5-9 "Joshua 5:9 - The Reproach Rolled Away"), its name is explicitly linked to the "rolling away" of the reproach of Egypt, referring to the mass circumcision performed there. This act of obedience and covenant renewal purified the new generation, removing the shame of uncircumcision and marking them as fully consecrated to God before they entered the Promised Land. Thus, Gilgal served as both a spiritual and military headquarters, a place where Israel re-established its identity and prepared for its divine mission.

**What is the deeper significance of Israel keeping the Passover in Canaan, rather than just remembering it?**

Answer: Keeping the Passover in Canaan was far more than a mere act of remembrance; it was a powerful statement of covenant fidelity and a profound theological marker for the nation. First, it demonstrated Israel's **obedience** to God's long-standing command, which was intended as a perpetual ordinance ([Exodus 12:14](/exodus/12-14 "Exodus 12:14 - Perpetual Ordinance of Passover")). Second, it served as a public **affirmation of their identity** as God's redeemed people, now in the land He promised. Third, it underscored God's **faithfulness** in bringing them out of bondage and into their inheritance, fulfilling His promises across generations. Finally, performing it in the land, immediately after the circumcision and before any major conquest, emphasized that **spiritual consecration and a right relationship with God** were foundational to their success and ability to possess the land. It marked the definitive end of the wilderness journey and the beginning of a new era of living under God's direct provision in the land of promise.

**What happened immediately after this Passover observance, and why is it significant?**

Answer: Immediately after the Passover, as recorded in [Joshua 5:12](/joshua/5-12 "Joshua 5:12 - The Manna Ceases"), the manna that had miraculously sustained the Israelites for forty years in the wilderness ceased. From that day forward, they began to eat the produce of the land of Canaan. This event is highly significant because it marked a definitive end to the wilderness period and a full transition into their new life in the Promised Land. It symbolized God's faithful provision adapting to their new circumstances, moving from supernatural daily bread to sustaining them through the natural bounty of the land. It also underscored their full integration into the land, signifying that they were no longer wanderers but inheritors, dependent on God's blessing upon the land itself, and ready to live by the fruit of their labor in the promised inheritance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joshua 5:10, with its profound emphasis on the Passover, the significance of Gilgal, and the new beginning in the Promised Land, finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Passover, first observed in Egypt and then faithfully in Canaan, serves as the quintessential Old Testament type pointing directly to Christ as the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"). Just as the blood of the lamb secured Israel's deliverance from death and bondage, so the shed blood of Jesus, our [Passover Lamb](/1_corinthians/5-7 "1 Corinthians 5:7 - Christ Our Passover Lamb"), secures our eternal redemption from sin and death. The new generation entering the Promised Land after covenant renewal at Gilgal powerfully foreshadows believers entering into the spiritual inheritance of the New Covenant through faith in Christ. The physical circumcision at Gilgal, a sign of the Old Covenant, is fulfilled in the spiritual "circumcision of the heart" ([Romans 2:29](/romans/2-29 "Romans 2:29 - Circumcision of the Heart")) that occurs in Christ, where believers are made new creations and cleansed from sin, not by human hands but by the Spirit. Furthermore, the cessation of manna and the eating of the land's produce can be seen as a type of spiritual maturity in Christ, moving beyond basic sustenance to feasting on the richness of His finished work and the abundant spiritual nourishment found in Him, for He is the [true bread from heaven](/john/6-32 "John 6:32 - Jesus, the True Bread from Heaven") who gives life to the world. Thus, Joshua 5:10 is not merely a historical account but a profound prophetic tableau, illustrating God's overarching plan for ultimate deliverance and inheritance through His Son.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 12:6

And ye shall keep it up until the fourteenth day of the same month: and the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.

Numbers 9:1

¶ And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the first month of the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying,

Numbers 9:5

And they kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the first month at even in the wilderness of Sinai: according to all that the LORD commanded Moses, so did the children of Israel.

Ezekiel 12:6

In their sight shalt thou bear [it] upon [thy] shoulders, [and] carry [it] forth in the twilight: thou shalt cover thy face, that thou see not the ground: for I have set thee [for] a sign unto the house of Israel.

Ezekiel 12:16

But I will leave a few men of them from the sword, from the famine, and from the pestilence; that they may declare all their abominations among the heathen whither they come; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.

Ezekiel 12:3

Therefore, thou son of man, prepare thee stuff for removing, and remove by day in their sight; and thou shalt remove from thy place to another place in their sight: it may be they will consider, though they [be] a rebellious house.