What does Joshua 3:4 mean?

Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore. Joshua 3:4

Explanation

Joshua 3:4 instructs the Israelites to maintain a distance of about two thousand cubits (approximately half a mile or roughly 900 meters) from the Ark of the Covenant as they prepare to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The command to keep this space ensures that the Ark, which is carrying the presence of God, may lead the way and be visible to all the people. The verse also emphasizes that the people are entering unfamiliar territory, and thus should follow the Ark closely to know the path they should take, recognizing it as both a physical and spiritual guide.

Historical Context

This verse is situated in the narrative of the Israelite’s exodus from Egypt and their subsequent journey to Canaan, the land God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Joshua, successor to Moses as leader of the Israelites, faces the task of leading the people into Canaan. The historical context of Joshua 3 involves the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, which parallels the earlier crossing of the Red Sea under Moses. During this period, the Ark of the Covenant was central to the Israelite’s worship and represented God’s covenant and presence with His people.

Theological Insights

Diverse theological insights emerge from Joshua 3:4:

• God’s Holiness: The distance stipulated between the people and the Ark may reflect God’s holiness and the respect that should be accorded to His presence.
• Divine Guidance: The Ark going ahead symbolizes God’s guidance, implying that His ways are not always familiar, and trusting in His lead is paramount.
• Faith and Obedience: This scenario emphasizes the need for faith and obedience despite uncertain or unfamiliar circumstances, a common theme in Judeo-Christian theology.

Practical Applications

In contemporary life, this verse may offer several applications:

• A reminder to respect and honor what is sacred, keeping a “reverent distance” while also following closely.
• The principle of seeking divine guidance, especially in new or challenging situations.
• The importance of communal visibility of faith and leadership within a community.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 31:8: “And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”
• Exodus 25:10-22: Describes the Ark of the Covenant, its construction, and significance.
• Exodus 19:12: “And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount, or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death.”

Language Study

Key Hebrew words in this verse include:

• ‘Rechok’ (רְחוֹק): Translated as “space” or “distance,” suggesting a separation or gap.
• ‘Alpayim’ (אַלְפַּיִם): Meaning “two thousand,” indicating the specific measure of distance.
• ‘Ammah’ (אַמָּה): A unit of measure, the “cubit,” often representing the length from elbow to fingertip. These terms underpin the importance of precision and obedience in the instructions given to the Israelites.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, such precise instructions for approaching or maintaining distance from sacred objects or places can also be found. For example, ancient Egyptian practices around their temples involved processions and rituals with specific rules of engagement for devotees and priests.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the distance of two thousand cubits can be understood as practical guidance for ensuring that a large multitude of people could see and follow the Ark over uneven terrain or through obstacles. This directive considers the limitations of human vision and the logistics of group movement.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Joshua 3:4 offer varied interpretations:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary: Emphasizes the importance of the Ark as a guide and the respect due to it.
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary: Notes the space needed for the multitude to see the Ark and suggests a miraculous element in the Ark’s leading the people over an untraveled path.
• The Pulpit Commentary: Discusses the Ark representing the divine presence and the distance symbolizing regard for the holiness of God.