What does Joshua 3:11 mean?

Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth passeth over before you into Jordan. Joshua 3:11

Explanation

Joshua 3:11 is a verse within the context of the Israelites’ journey into the Promised Land, transitioned under the leadership of Joshua after Moses’ death. The verse speaks to the Israelites as they prepare to cross the Jordan River. The “ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth” is referenced, which held significant religious and national meaning for the Israelites, as it was a symbol of God’s presence among them. It is described as leading the way, demonstrating God’s active involvement in their journey.

The crossing of the Jordan River was a pivotal event, requiring faith and obedience. The ark going ahead of the people underscored that the Lord himself was paving the way for their entry into Canaan and securing their victory, solidifying God’s sovereignty not just over Israel but the entire earth. It is a promise that they are not alone and that their conquest is divinely sanctioned.

Historical Context

This verse is set during the Israelites’ arrival at the banks of the Jordan River after their 40-year journey through the desert. They needed to enter Canaan to claim it as the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This moment is critical because it represents the transition from the wilderness wandering to the actual possession of the Promised Land.

During this time, the ark of the covenant, which was a gold-covered wooden chest containing the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments, symbolized God’s throne on earth. It often led the Israelites and was a visible sign of His presence. The crossing of the Jordan River occurred while the river was at flood stage, making this event miraculous.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints might emphasize various aspects of this verse.

From a Christian perspective, it is often seen as a foreshadowing of baptism, symbolic of leaving behind an old life and entering a new, sanctified journey. This reflects New Testament teachings, where passing through water represents a form of salvation and purification.

Judaism may focus on the covenant relationship between God and Israel, with the ark representing God’s faithfulness to His promises. The acts of God in Israel’s history are seen as direct and practical involvements in the life of His people.

Some theological interpretations might view the phrase “the Lord of all the earth” as a claim of monotheism, asserting the God of Israel as the one true God over all nations and creation.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire individuals to recognize that they are not alone in their endeavours—just as the Israelites were guided into the Promised Land, one may also find comfort and motivation in believing that there is a higher power leading the way through life’s challenges.

It can also encourage believers to proceed in faith, even when facing obstacles that seem insurmountable (like the flooded Jordan River), trusting that with divine guidance, they can overcome barriers.

Cross-References

• Joshua 3:13: “And it shall come to pass, as soon as the soles of the feet of the priests that bear the ark of the LORD, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of Jordan, that the waters of Jordan shall be cut off from the waters that come down from above; and they shall stand upon an heap.”
• Joshua 3:17: “And the priests that bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the midst of Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed clean over Jordan.”
• Joshua 1:11: “Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth you to possess it.”

Language Study

The Hebrew term for “ark” is “אָרוֹן” (aron), representing the Ark of the Covenant. “Covenant” translates to “בְּרִית” (berit), indicating a solemn agreement or treaty.

The phrase “the Lord of all the earth” is significant. “Lord” is “יהוה” (YHWH), which is the personal name of God, signifying His eternal and self-existence. “All the earth” in Hebrew is “כָּל-הָאָרֶץ” (kol-ha’aretz), emphasizing God’s sovereign rule over the entire world, not just Israel.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons could be drawn between the Ark of the Covenant leading the Israelites and other cultural mythologies where divine objects or beings pave the way for chosen people. Many ancient cultures saw rivers as symbolic barriers to be crossed for a promised destiny, often accompanied by divine intervention.

In the Mesopotamian Epic of Gilgamesh, for example, the gods are involved in guiding and assisting the protagonists on their quest, though the context and meaning are distinct from the Israelite journey.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understandings might look at the story of the Jordan River ceasing its flow as requiring a natural explanation, such as a landslide or other temporary geological blockage upstream. This perspective might analyze historical evidence and geological records to determine if such an event could coincide with the timing of the biblical account.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered interpretations of Joshua 3:11:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes God’s majesty and the miraculous nature of the crossing.
• The New American Commentary discusses the significance of the phrase “Lord of all the earth,” highlighting God’s sovereign power.
• Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament focus on the Ark’s role as the leader of the people, demonstrating God’s guidance and protection.

Each of these commentaries underlines the importance of the event in Israel’s nation-building narrative and God’s active role in leading His people into the fulfillment of His promises.