And it came to pass at the seventh time, when the priests blew with the trumpets, Joshua said unto the people, Shout; for the LORD hath given you the city.
JOSHUA 6:16KJVWhat does Joshua 6:16 mean?
Joshua 6:16 describes the moment when, after circling Jericho seven times, the priests blow their trumpets and Joshua commands the people to shout because God has given them the city. This verse marks the turning point where the Israelites are told to act in faith, trusting that victory has already been granted by the LORD.
In this scene, Joshua is speaking to the Israelites as they surround Jericho, following God’s unusual instructions for taking the city. The priests, carrying trumpets, have just completed the seventh circuit around the city walls. Joshua’s command to shout is both an act of obedience and a signal that God’s promise is about to be fulfilled in a dramatic way.
The Hebrew behind Joshua 6:16
- “Shout” (רִיעוּ, rî‘û): This word means to raise a loud cry, often used for a battle cry or a shout of triumph. Here, it signals both faith and celebration, not just noise.
- “Given” (נָתַן, nathan): This verb means “to give” or “to hand over.” Joshua uses it in the past tense, showing that God’s promise is so certain, it’s as if the city is already theirs.
- “LORD” (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God, emphasizing that it is Israel’s covenant God who is acting, not just any deity or force.
Why Joshua 6:16 matters
- Joshua 6:16 clarifies that the victory over Jericho is not due to military strength or clever tactics, but because the LORD has already decided the outcome.
- The verse highlights the importance of faith and obedience, as the people are called to shout before seeing any physical evidence of the city’s fall.
- This moment connects to the larger story of God’s faithfulness to Israel, showing that God keeps promises in unexpected ways and invites His people to trust Him fully.