Renewal at Gilgal

Overview

• Testament: Old
• Book: Joshua
• Chapters: Joshua 5
• Summary: Israel renews covenant signs at Gilgal through circumcision and Passover before beginning the conquest.

Details

The wilderness generation’s sons are circumcised, the reproach of Egypt is rolled away, Passover is kept in the land, and the manna ceases as Israel eats the produce of Canaan. Joshua then encounters the Commander of the LORD’s Army.

Key People Involved

• Joshua (Son of Nun) — Oversees covenant renewal
• Commander of the LORD’s Army — Appears before Jericho

Key Places

• Gilgal — First major camp in Canaan
• Canaan — Land whose produce Israel begins to eat

Important Verses

“This day have I rolled away the reproach of Egypt from off you.” — Joshua 5:9

Cross-References

• Related events: Passover, Fall of Jericho
• Foreshadowed in: Red Sea Crossing

Notes

Before Israel fights, Israel worships. The conquest begins with covenant identity.