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Joshua 6:13

And seven priests bearing seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark of the LORD went on continually, and blew with the trumpets: and the armed men went before them; but the rereward came after the ark of the LORD, the priests going on, and blowing with the trumpets.

Joshua 6:13 · King James Version

Meaning

During this particular event in the Old Testament, seven priests were tasked with carrying seven trumpets made from rams' horns. These priests walked before the ark of the Lord, continuously blowing the trumpets as they went along. Following the priests were armed men, and the rear guard brought up the rear behind the ark of the Lord. This procession signifies the importance of the ark of the Lord, as it symbolizes the presence of God among His people. The sounding of the trumpets by the priests served as a call to attention, an announcement of God's presence, and a symbol of victory. The armed men represented protection and readiness for battle, as they followed the priests and the ark. The disciplined order of the procession demonstrates the reverence and honor the Israelites had for the Lord and His dwelling place. The blowing of the trumpets was a way to celebrate and announce God's presence, and it was a custom in biblical times used to mark significant moments in Israelite history.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the significance of the number seven, which is commonly associated with perfection and completion in the Bible. The seven priests carrying seven trumpets of rams' horns symbolize divine order and the perfection of God's plan. The blowing of the trumpets signifies a call to attention and a declaration of God's presence. The armed men going before the priests represent protection and strength provided by God in times of battle. Additionally, the rereward following the ark illustrates God's guidance in leading His people from behind, ensuring their safety and security. Overall, this passage highlights the importance of obedience, order, and divine protection in the pursuit of fulfilling God's will.

Joshua 6:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

And the seven priests bearing the seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark of Jehovah went on continually, and blew the trumpets: and the armed men went before them; and the rearward came after the ark of Jehovah, [the priests] blowing the trumpets as they went.

World English Bible

The seven priests bearing the seven trumpets of rams’ horns before Yahweh’s ark went on continually, and blew the trumpets: and the armed men went before them. The rear guard came after Yahweh’s ark. The trumpets sounded as they went.

Douay-Rheims

And seven of them seven trumpets, which are used in the jubilee: and they went before the ark of the Lord, walking and sounding the trumpets: and the armed men went before them, and the rest of the common people followed the ark, and they blew the trumpets.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Also seuen Priests bare seuen trumpets of rams hornes, and went before the Arke of the Lord, and going blewe with the trumpets: and the men of armes went before them, but the gathering hoste came after the Arke of the Lord, as they went and blewe the trumpets.