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Book of Joshua - Chapter 3 - Verse 14

3:14
And it came to pass, when the people removed from their tents, to pass over Jordan, and the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people;

Meaning

When the people of Israel were preparing to cross the Jordan River, it was a significant moment in their journey to the Promised Land. The Ark of the Covenant, which symbolized the presence and power of God among the people, was carried by the priests before them as they made their way. This act served as a reminder to the Israelites that God was leading them and that He was with them every step of the way. The crossing of the Jordan River marked a new chapter in their history, as they were leaving behind the wilderness and heading towards their inheritance. It was a moment of faith and obedience, as the people followed God's instructions and trusted in His guidance. As believers today, we can also draw inspiration from this verse, remembering that God goes before us in our own journeys, leading us towards our own promised land, if we trust in Him and follow His path.

Theological Overview

When the Israelites were preparing to cross the Jordan River, it was significant that the priests were the ones chosen to bear the ark of the covenant ahead of the people. This act symbolized the spiritual leadership and guidance that the priests provided to the nation of Israel. The ark of the covenant was a physical representation of God's presence among his people, so having the priests carry it demonstrated their role as intercessors between the people and God. The crossing of the Jordan River was a momentous event in Israel's history, as it marked the transition from wandering in the wilderness to entering the promised land. By following the priests and the ark of the covenant, the Israelites were demonstrating their trust and obedience to God's leading. This verse highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and the role of the priests in facilitating the relationship between God and his people.

American Standard Version

And it came to pass, when the people removed from their tents, to pass over the Jordan, the priests that bare the ark of the covenant being before the people;
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