Joshua 3:1-3 NIV

The Pulpit Commentary - Joshua 3:2

The officers. LXX ; γραμματεις (see Joshua 1:10 ). This is evidently the history of the fulfilment of the command there given by Joshua. There he orders the officers to pass through the host; here the command is fulfilled. There is no reasonable doubt that the spies had returned before the order recorded in Joshua 1:10 had been given. Many commentators have raised objections to the order of the narrative in this and in the following chapter; and commentators like Houbigant, Masius... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Joshua 3:3

And they commanded the people, saying. These words are interesting as showing that all was orderly in the Israel-irish camp. Everything was carried on according to the strictest rules of military discipline. The removal of the ark was to be the signal for the advance of the whole host. The ark of the covenant. We may with advantage compare the religious use of the ark here and in Joshua 6:1-27 ; with its superstitious use in 1 Samuel 4:3 , 1 Samuel 4:4 . We do not read that when... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - Joshua 3:3

At this decisive moment, when the people of Israel were about to enter on the great conflict which was to secure the possession of the land of promise, the command was given to gather themselves together around the ark of the covenant, as their banner. This indicates the great central truth of the history of Israel. The focus of its national life is the law of its God. It is for this it is to fight and overcome, and not merely that it may gain possession of a rich country and develop its... read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Joshua 3:1

“The acacia groves” (Exodus 25:5 note) of Shittim on both sides of Jordan line the upper terraces of the valley (compare 2 Kings 6:4). They would be in this part at some six miles distance from the river itself. read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - Joshua 3:2

These days (Joshua 1:11 note) were no doubt occupied in preparations of various kinds. The host consisted not of armed men only, but of women and children also; and many arrangements would be necessary before they actually advanced into a hostile country. read more

Joseph Benson

Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Joshua 3:1

Joshua 3:1. Joshua rose early in the morning Not after the return of the spies, as may seem at first view, but after the three days mentioned Joshua 1:11, when orders were given to the army to make all necessary provision for invading the enemies’ country. They came to Jordan and lodged there That night, that they might go over in the day-time, that the miracle might be more evident and unquestionable, and might strike the greater terror into their enemies. read more

Joseph Benson

Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - Joshua 3:2-3

Joshua 3:2-3. After three days The three days mentioned Joshua 1:11, either at the end of them, or upon the last of them. The officers went through the host To give them more particular directions, as they had given a general notice before. They commanded the people In Joshua’s name, and by his authority. When ye see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God The sign and symbol of his presence, and of his being in covenant with you, and engaged to protect and conduct you, as your... read more

Donald C. Fleming

Bridgeway Bible Commentary - Joshua 3:1-17

Crossing the Jordan River (3:1-5:1)Israel’s conquest of Jericho was more than just a military exercise. It had religious meaning. The Israelites were to cleanse themselves before God, because he was the one who would lead them against their enemies. His presence was symbolized in the ark of the covenant (GNB: covenant box), which the priests carried ahead of the procession in full view of the people (3:1-6).As God had worked through Moses, so he would work through Joshua. Just as the waters of... read more

E.W. Bullinger