Joshua 5:4
And this is the cause why Joshua did circumcise: All the people that came out of Egypt, that were males, even all the men of war, died in the wilderness by the way, after they came out of Egypt.
Joshua 5:4 · King James Version
Meaning
When Joshua circumcised the men who had come out of Egypt, he was following a commandment from God. The reason for this act was to renew the covenant between the Israelites and God. The men who had been circumcised in Egypt had not circumcised their children during the journey through the wilderness, and so they needed to undergo the procedure before entering the Promised Land. The individuals who had left Egypt had all died in the wilderness due to their disobedience and lack of faith in God. By circumcising the new generation of Israelites, Joshua was signaling a fresh start, a recommitment to following God's laws and trusting in His promises. This act of circumcision was not just a physical procedure but a spiritual one, symbolizing a change of heart and a dedication to living according to God's will.
Theological Overview
In this verse, it is explained that Joshua circumcised the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land because all the men who had left Egypt had died in the wilderness due to their disobedience and lack of faith. This act of circumcision served as a sign of the covenant between God and His people, symbolizing their commitment to follow His commands and trust in His promises. Through this act, Joshua was not only obeying the commandment given to Abraham, but also preparing the new generation of Israelites to enter into the blessings that God had promised to their ancestors. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the importance of obedience and faith in God's plan, even in the face of challenges and setbacks. It emphasizes the idea that God is faithful to His promises, but that His people must also demonstrate their faithfulness and commitment in return.
Joshua 5:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And this is the cause why Joshua did circumcise: all the people that came forth out of Egypt, that were males, even all the men of war, died in the wilderness by the way, after they came forth out of Egypt.
World English Bible
This is the reason Joshua circumcised: all the people who came out of Egypt, who were males, even all the men of war, died in the wilderness by the way, after they came out of Egypt.
Douay-Rheims
Now this is the cause of the second circumcision: All the people that came out of Egypt that were males, all the men fit for war, died in the desert, during the time of the long going about in the way:
Geneva Bible (1599)
And this is the cause why Ioshua circumcised all the people, euen the males that came out of Egypt, because all the men of warre were dead in the wildernesse by the way after they came out of Egypt.