John Gill Commentary Joshua 5:8

John Gill Commentary

Joshua 5:8

1697–1771
Reformed Baptist
John Gill
John Gill

John Gill Commentary

Joshua 5:8

1697–1771
Reformed Baptist
SCRIPTURE

"And it came to pass, when they had done circumcising all the nation, that they abode in their places in the camp, till they were whole." — Joshua 5:8 (ASV)

And it came to pass, when they had done circumcising all the
people
Which seems as if it was done in one day, even on the same day they passed over Jordan, and came to Gilgal; though Bishop Usher


that they abode in their places in the camp till they were whole: till the wound made by circumcision was healed; now as it was on the tenth day they passed over Jordan, and came to Gilgal, where they were circumcised, there were three entire days between that and the fourteenth, when they kept the passover; during which time they kept within their tents in the camp, being unfit to move from there, for on the third day of circumcision they were usually sore (Genesis 34:25); but being well on the fourth, were able to attend the passover.

As the providence of God greatly appeared in favour of Israel, by causing a dread to fall on their enemies, so that they dared not sally out of the city and attack them; so it showed great faith in Joshua and the Israelites to administer circumcision at this time, just as they were landed in an enemy's country; and when the waters of Jordan were returned, and there was no going back; and if they could, as they were not in a condition to fight, so not to flee.

FOOTNOTES:

  • F1: Annales Vet. Test. p. 38. thinks it was the day following; and so the Jews F2 say it was on the eleventh of Nisan:
  • F2: Seder Olam Rabba, c. 11. p. 31.