Definition: So the people shouted when [the priests] blew with the trumpets: and it came to pass, when the people heard the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Joshua 6:20. It's a really significant and dramatic passage in the Bible, and it tells us about a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Story: The Setup: The Israelites were camped near Jericho, a city packed with people and walls. They were expecting to be conquered by the enemy. The Problem: The priests of Moleben – a group of high-ranking officials – blew trumpets. These trumpets made a loud, insistent sound. The Reaction: As the trumpets blared, the Israelites erupted in a huge, overwhelming shout. This wasn’t just a normal shout; it was a collective, ecstatic roar. The Result: This sudden, intense outpouring of emotion caused the wall surrounding Jericho to fall down flat . What Happened Next: Straight Upward: The people surged upwards, running straight before them. Entering the City: They all went up into the city – it was a massive, chaotic mass of people rushing inside. The Significance - It’s about More Than Just a Wall Falling Down: This event is considered a sign of God's favor and victory for Israel. It symbolizes: God's Judgment: The wall represents the Israelites' separation from their enemies. The fall of the wall signifies that God has judged their sin and is bringing them into a new, holy state. Divine Favor: It’s a powerful display of God’s power and presence. The overwhelming sound and movement represent a united people, driven by faith and a desire for liberation. In short, it's a story about a moment of intense emotion – a collective shout – that ultimately led to God’s judgment and the arrival of his people into the city. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Compare it to other stories in the Bible where similar events occur? Give you some historical context about the time period?