Definition: And command ye them, saying, Take you hence out of the midst of Jordan, out of the place where the priests’ feet stood firm, twelve stones, and ye shall carry them over with you, and leave them in the lodging place, where ye shall lodge this night.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joshua 4:3. It's a really significant verse that tells us how God would deal with the people of Israel who were polluting the Jordan River – specifically, they were building their altar in the place where the priests’ feet stood. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Situation: The Problem: The Israelites were building a massive altar (a temple) in the middle of the Jordan River. This was a huge deal because it was considered a sacred space and a symbol of their worship. The Priest's Foot Stance: They had placed the feet of the priests (important figures in the religious ceremonies) on a specific stone – a marker, really – that stood as a point of reference for the entire area. God’s Command: A Clear Instruction: God directly tells Joshua, "Take you hence out of the midst of Jordan… and carry them over." This means He wants to remove the people from that area entirely. The Stones are Key: He instructs them to bring twelve stones (the foot markers) across the river – over the water. The “Lodging Place” - A Temporary Refuge: Finally, he says, "And leave them in the lodging place, where ye shall lodge this night.” This means they need to temporarily set these stones down somewhere safe for a night or two. In essence, it’s about God's judgment and His desire to cleanse the area of idolatry (worshiping false gods). He wants to make it clear that their actions were wrong and that He will punish them with a forceful removal from the sacred space. Why is this important? This verse is part of a larger story about God's judgment against Israel’s rebellion. It demonstrates God's power and His unwavering commitment to uphold His laws and protect His people. It’s a powerful example of divine justice and a reminder that disobedience will have consequences. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage?