Joshua 4:20 (KJV)

What does Joshua 4:20 mean?

Joshua 4:20 describes how Joshua set up the twelve stones that the Israelites had taken from the Jordan River at a place called Gilgal. These stones served as a physical reminder of the moment when the people of Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.

In this verse, Joshua is leading the Israelites after Moses’ death, and they have just entered the land of Canaan. The twelve stones, one for each tribe, were taken from the riverbed where the priests stood as the waters stopped. Setting them up at Gilgal marked the spot where the Israelites camped after crossing, creating a memorial for future generations.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 4:20

• "pitch" (קוּם, qum): This word means to set up, establish, or raise. The use of this word emphasizes that Joshua did more than just place the stones; he deliberately erected them as a standing memorial.
• "Gilgal" (גִּלְגָּל, Gilgal): This is the name of the first campsite in Canaan. The name itself means "circle" or "rolling," possibly referring to the arrangement of the stones or the rolling away of Israel’s past.

Why Joshua 4:20 matters

• Joshua 4:20 clarifies that the memorial stones were not left in the river but were set up at Gilgal, making them accessible for the people to see and remember.
• The verse highlights Joshua’s leadership and careful obedience in making sure the memorial was established as God had instructed.
• This verse connects to the broader story of God’s faithfulness in bringing Israel into the promised land, and it sets up the importance of remembering and teaching future generations about this event.