Definition: And he said unto the people, Pass on, and compass the city, and let him that is armed pass on before the ark of the LORD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Joshua 6:7. It’s a really important and somewhat dramatic instruction given to the Israelites during the time they were camped outside Jericho. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Situation: The Israelites had been camped outside of Jericho for seven long years, waiting for them to defeat the enemy. They were exhausted and feeling discouraged. Joshua’s Command: Joshua, the leader, tells the people to do something . He says, “Pass on, and compass the city.” What does ‘compass’ mean? This is where it gets a little tricky – it doesn't literally mean to draw a circle around Jericho. It means to move in a specific pattern. The Important Part: Let Him Pass Before the Ark: “Let him that is armed pass on before the ark of the LORD.” This is the crucial part. Joshua wants the Israelites to don’t just wander aimlessly around the city walls. They need to be positioned in a way that makes it clear they are approaching and potentially interacting with the Ark of the Lord, which was God's presence in the midst of the land. Why is this important? It's a sign of respect and reverence towards God. By positioning themselves in this way, the Israelites were showing that they understood that the Ark was incredibly holy and significant – it represented God’s power and presence. Overall Meaning: Joshua’s command is a powerful reminder to be mindful, respectful, and show gratitude before approaching the sacred object of worship—the Ark of the Lord. It's about acknowledging God’s presence and being humbled before him. In short, it’s like saying “Show respect! Don’t just wander; move deliberately and with reverence.” --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this command might have been interpreted in the ancient context?