Parting of the Jordan
The Jordan River stood up in a heap so Israel crossed into the promised land on dry ground.
As the priests bearing the ark of the covenant stepped into the flooded Jordan, the waters upstream rose in a heap and the riverbed dried. Israel crossed over into Canaan and set up twelve memorial stones to remember the miracle.
God (through Joshua and the priests)
Jordan River, near Jericho
What Happened
- 1The Jordan was overflowing all its banks at harvest time
- 2Priests carried the ark to the edge of the water
- 3As their feet touched the water, the river rose up in a heap far above
- 4Israel crossed on dry ground
- 5Twelve stones were taken from the riverbed as a memorial
Key KJV Scriptures
"That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap... and the people passed over right against Jericho."
"These stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever."
Spiritual Significance
Like the Red Sea forty years earlier, the Jordan parting confirmed that the Lord was with Joshua as He was with Moses, and that He was giving Israel the land.
Lesson for Today
God often acts only after we step forward in faith. The waters part when the priests' feet touch the river.
Key People
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Jordan part for Israel?
So that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, and that Israel might fear the LORD their God for ever (Joshua 4:24).
Who carried the ark across the Jordan?
The priests carried the ark of the covenant and stood on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan until all Israel had crossed over (Joshua 3:17).
Where in the Bible is the miracle of Parting of the Jordan?
The miracle of Parting of the Jordan is recorded in Joshua 3:16 (KJV), with additional references in Joshua 4:7.
Who performed the miracle of Parting of the Jordan?
Scripture records that God (through Joshua and the priests) carried out this miracle at Jordan River, near Jericho. Ultimately the power belonged to God, who alone does wondrous things (Psalm 72:18).
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