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Joshua 5:5

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Now all the people that came out were circumcised: but all the people [that were] born in the wilderness by the way as they came forth out of Egypt, [them] they had not circumcised.

Now {H3588} all the people {H5971} that came out {H3318} were circumcised {H4135}: but all the people {H5971} that were born {H3209} in the wilderness {H4057} by the way {H1870} as they came forth {H3318} out of Egypt {H4714}, them they had not circumcised {H4135}.

For although all the people who left Egypt had been circumcised, all those who had been born in the desert on the way as they went on from Egypt had not been circumcised;

Though all who had come out were circumcised, none of those born in the wilderness on the journey from Egypt had been circumcised.

For all the people that came out were circumcised; but all the people that were born in the wilderness by the way as they came forth out of Egypt, they had not circumcised.

Commentary

Joshua 5:5 explains a crucial detail regarding the state of the Israelite nation upon their entry into the Promised Land. It clarifies why a mass circumcision was necessary, as detailed in the verses immediately following this one.

Historical and Cultural Context

This verse sets the stage for a significant event in Israel's history at Gilgal, right after they miraculously crossed the Jordan River and before they embarked on the conquest of Jericho. The first generation of Israelites who left Egypt were circumcised, upholding the covenant sign established with Abraham (see Genesis 17:10). However, during the forty years of wandering in the wilderness, the practice of circumcision ceased for the males born during that period. This cessation was likely due to the judgment of God upon the rebellious generation, who were destined to die in the wilderness, preventing them from entering the land (as prophesied in Numbers 14:29).

The act of circumcision was not merely a cultural tradition but a profound religious obligation, symbolizing Israel's unique covenant relationship with God. Its renewal under Joshua signified a fresh start and a re-dedication of the new generation to the Lord before they could inherit the land God had promised their forefathers.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Covenant Renewal: The verse highlights the break in the covenant sign during the wilderness wandering and the necessity for its restoration. Circumcision was a sign of Israel's identity and their belonging to God's chosen people.
  • Obedience and Readiness: The command to circumcise the new generation (mentioned in Joshua 5:2) underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. It also signifies the people's readiness, both spiritually and ritually, to engage in the holy war and take possession of the Promised Land.
  • Generational Transition: This verse starkly contrasts the generation that exited Egypt with the one born in the wilderness. It marks a pivotal moment where the new generation, led by Joshua, fully embraces their identity as God's covenant people, ready to fulfill His purposes.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "circumcised" is mul (מוּל), meaning "to cut off." While referring to a physical act, its significance extends deeply into the spiritual realm, representing purification and dedication. The lack of this sign for the wilderness-born generation underscored their separation from the full covenant blessings until this act of renewal at Gilgal.

Practical Application

For believers today, Joshua 5:5 reminds us of the importance of spiritual obedience and dedication. While physical circumcision is not required under the new covenant (as discussed in Romans 2:29 and Galatians 5:6), the principle of entering into and maintaining a covenant relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ is paramount. Just as Israel needed to be set apart and consecrated before entering their inheritance, believers are called to live a consecrated life, continually renewing their commitment to God and seeking His will as they pursue their spiritual inheritance in Christ (see Ephesians 1:11).

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 7:19 (2 votes)

    Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.

  • Romans 2:26 (2 votes)

    Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?

  • Matthew 12:7 (2 votes)

    But if ye had known what [this] meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.

  • Galatians 6:15 (2 votes)

    For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.

  • Deuteronomy 12:8 (2 votes)

    Ye shall not do after all [the things] that we do here this day, every man whatsoever [is] right in his own eyes.

  • Deuteronomy 12:9 (2 votes)

    For ye are not as yet come to the rest and to the inheritance, which the LORD your God giveth you.

  • Galatians 5:6 (2 votes)

    For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.