Joshua | Chapter Summaries + Study QuestionsSample

JOSHUA 5

THE ISRAELITES CELEBRATE PASSOVER + PREPARE TO ENTER CANAAN

After God allows His people to cross the Jordan River, the Canaanites hear of God's miraculous provision, and they become increasingly fearful of the Israelites.

The Israelites who were born in the wilderness (and possibly any Egyptians who turned to God and followed the Israelites) had not been circumcised. Before entering the Promised Land, Joshua had every uncircumcised man circumcised, keeping the covenant of Genesis 17.

Although they have not yet taken over the Promised Land, the Israelites celebrate their first Passover in Canaan, remembering how God has spared His people (Exodus 13). When the Israelites first enter the wilderness, God begins providing them with food daily, which they called manna (Exodus 16). Once the Israelites have fruit and grain in the land of Canaan, God stops sending the manna. God’s provision is abundant and perfectly timed!

When Joshua is near Jericho, he has an encounter with the commander of God’s army. This angelic creature instructs Joshua to take off his shoes because he is standing on holy ground.

STUDY QUESTIONS

In Joshua 5, why was the new generation of Israelites circumcised? What is the significance of circumcision? (See Genesis 17)

In Joshua 5:13–15, who did Joshua encounter? What information did this person share with Joshua?