Joshua 3:16

Joshua 3:16 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

the flowing water stood still. It backed up as far upstream as Adam, a city in the area of Zarethan, while the water flowing toward the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho.

King James Version KJV

That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho.

American Standard Version ASV

that the waters which came down from above stood, and rose up in one heap, a great way off, at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan; and those that went down toward the sea of the Arabah, even the Salt Sea, were wholly cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho.

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then the waters flowing down from higher up were stopped and came together in a mass a long way back at Adam, a town near Zarethan; and the waters flowing down to the sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, were cut off: and the people went across opposite Jericho.

Free Bible Version FBV

The water piled up a long way upstream, at the town of Adam, near Zarethan, while downstream no more water flowed into the Dead Sea. So the people crossed over, opposite Jericho.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then the waters that came downe from aboue, stayed and rose vpon an heape and departed farre from the citie of Adam, that was beside Zaretan: but the waters that came downe towarde the Sea of the wildernes, euen the salt Sea, failed, and were cut off: so the people went right ouer against Iericho.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

that the waters stand; those coming down from above have risen — one heap, very far above Adam the city, which [is] at the side of Zaretan; and those going down by the sea of the plain, the Salt Sea, have been completely cut off; and the people have passed through over-against Jericho;

World English Bible WEB

the waters which came down from above stood, and rose up in one heap a great way off, at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan; and those that went down toward the sea of the Arabah, even the Salt Sea, were wholly cut off. Then the people passed over near Jericho.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up in a heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan; and those that came down towards the sea of the plain, even the salt sea, failed, and were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

The waters that came down from above stood in one place, and swelling up like a mountain, were seen afar off from the city that is called Adom, to the place of Sarthan: but those that were beneath, ran down into the sea of the wilderness (which now is called the Dead Sea) until they wholly failed.

Translation for Translators T4T

the water stopped flowing. The water piled up far upstream, at a town named Adam, near Zarethan. The water stopped flowing down to the Dead Sea. So the people were able to cross the river near Jericho.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Joshua 3:16

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Joshua 3:16 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יַּעַמְד֡וּ הַ/מַּיִם֩ הַ/יֹּרְדִ֨ים מִ/לְ/מַ֜עְלָ/ה קָ֣מוּ נֵד אֶחָ֗ד הַרְחֵ֨ק מְאֹ֜ד ב/אדם מֵֽ/אָדָ֤ם הָ/עִיר֙ אֲשֶׁר֙ מִ/צַּ֣ד צָֽרְתָ֔ן וְ/הַ/יֹּרְדִ֗ים עַ֣ל יָ֧ם הָ/עֲרָבָ֛ה יָם הַ/מֶּ֖לַח תַּ֣מּוּ נִכְרָ֑תוּ וְ/הָ/עָ֥ם עָבְר֖וּ נֶ֥גֶד יְרִיחֽוֹ

וַ/יַּעַמְד֡וּ ʻâmad H5975 to stand Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

הַ/מַּיִם֩ mayim H4325 Water (Gate) Art | N-mp

הַ/יֹּרְדִ֨ים yârad H3381 to go down Art | V-Qal

מִ/לְ/מַ֜עְלָ/ה maʻal H4605 above Prep | Prep | Adv | Suff

קָ֣מוּ qûwm H6965 -kamai V-Qal-Perf-3cp

נֵד nêd H5067 heap N-ms

אֶחָ֗ד ʼechâd H259 one Adj

הַרְחֵ֨ק râchaq H7368 to remove V-Hiphil-Ptc

מְאֹ֜ד mᵉʼôd H3966 much Adv

ב/אדם ʼÂdâm H121 Adam Prep | N-proper

מֵֽ/אָדָ֤ם ʼÂdâm H121 Adam Prep | N-proper

הָ/עִיר֙ ʻîyr H5892 excitement Art | N-fs

אֲשֶׁר֙ ʼăsher H834 which Rel

מִ/צַּ֣ד tsad H6654 side Prep | N-ms

צָֽרְתָ֔ן Tsârᵉthân H6891 Zarethan N-proper

וְ/הַ/יֹּרְדִ֗ים yârad H3381 to go down Conj | Art | V-Qal

עַ֣ל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

יָ֧ם yâm H3220 West N-ms

הָ/עֲרָבָ֛ה ʻărâbâh H6160 plain Art | N-fs

יָם yâm H3220 West N-ms

הַ/מֶּ֖לַח melach H4417 salt Art | N-ms

תַּ֣מּוּ tâmam H8552 to finish V-Qal-Perf-3cp

נִכְרָ֑תוּ kârath H3772 to cut V-Niphal-Perf-3cp

וְ/הָ/עָ֥ם ʻam H5971 Amaw Conj | Art | N-ms

עָבְר֖וּ ʻâbar H5674 to pass V-Qal-Perf-3cp

נֶ֥גֶד neged H5048 before Prep

יְרִיחֽוֹ Yᵉrîychôw H3405 Jericho N-proper

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Joshua 3:16

וַ/יַּעַמְד֡וּ ʻâmad H5975 "to stand" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

Means 'to stand' in a strong sense, like in Exodus 17:12 where Moses stood with his arms up to help Israel win a battle.

Definition: : stand/stop/establish 1) to stand, remain, endure, take one's stand 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to stand, take one's stand, be in a standing attitude, stand forth, take a stand, present oneself, attend upon, be or become servant of 1a2) to stand still, stop (moving or doing), cease 1a3) to tarry, delay, remain, continue, abide, endure, persist, be steadfast 1a4) to make a stand, hold one's ground 1a5) to stand upright, remain standing, stand up, rise, be erect, be upright 1a6) to arise, appear, come on the scene, stand forth, appear, rise up or against 1a7) to stand with, take one's stand, be appointed, grow flat, grow insipid 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to station, set 1b2) to cause to stand firm, maintain 1b3) to cause to stand up, cause to set up, erect 1b4) to present (one) before (king) 1b5) to appoint, ordain, establish 1c) (Hophal) to be presented, be caused to stand, be stood before

Usage: Occurs in 497 OT verses. KJV: abide (behind), appoint, arise, cease, confirm, continue, dwell, be employed, endure, establish, leave, make, ordain, be (over), place, (be) present (self), raise up, remain, repair, [phrase] serve, set (forth, over, -tle, up), (make to, make to be at a, with-) stand (by, fast, firm, still, up), (be at a) stay (up), tarry. See also: Genesis 18:8; Joshua 21:44; 1 Chronicles 6:17.

הַ/מַּיִם֩ mayim H4325 "Water (Gate)" Art | N-mp

This word means water, referring to a liquid or a source of refreshment. It appears in the Bible as a literal and figurative term, including references to wasting or urine. The word is used in various contexts, such as in Genesis and Leviticus.

Definition: This name means water, refreshment

Usage: Occurs in 525 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] piss, wasting, water(-ing, (-course, -flood, -spring)). See also: Genesis 1:2; Leviticus 14:9; Joshua 18:15.

הַ/יֹּרְדִ֨ים yârad H3381 "to go down" Art | V-Qal

To go down or descend, like going to a lower place or falling. It appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing people and things moving downwards.

Definition: 1) to go down, descend, decline, march down, sink down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come down 1a2) to sink 1a3) to be prostrated 1a4) to come down (of revelation) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to bring down 1b2) to send down 1b3) to take down 1b4) to lay prostrate 1b5) to let down 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be brought down 1c2) to be taken down

Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, bring down, carry down, cast down, (cause to) come(-ing) down, fall (down), get down, go(-ing) down(-ward), hang down, [idiom] indeed, let down, light (down), put down (off), (cause to, let) run down, sink, subdue, take down. See also: Genesis 11:5; Judges 3:28; 2 Kings 1:15.

מִ/לְ/מַ֜עְלָ/ה maʻal H4605 "above" Prep | Prep | Adv | Suff

Means above or higher, used to describe something's location or position. In the Bible, it appears in passages like Genesis 1:7, where God separates the waters above from the waters below. This word helps us understand God's creation.

Definition: subst 1) higher part, upper part adv 1a) above prep 1b) on the top of, above, on higher ground than with locative 1c) upwards, higher, above

Usage: Occurs in 134 OT verses. KJV: above, exceeding(-ly), forward, on ([idiom] very) high, over, up(-on, -ward), very. See also: Genesis 6:16; 1 Samuel 30:25; Psalms 74:5.

קָ֣מוּ qûwm H6965 "-kamai" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

Qum means to rise or stand up, used in various contexts like rising to power or standing firm, as seen in Jeremiah and Ezra.

Definition: Combined with lev (לֵב "Leb" H3820B) § -Kamai = "my adversary" Leb-kamai, i.e., people of Gambulai

Usage: Occurs in 596 OT verses. KJV: abide, accomplish, [idiom] be clearer, confirm, continue, decree, [idiom] be dim, endure, [idiom] enemy, enjoin, get up, make good, help, hold, (help to) lift up (again), make, [idiom] but newly, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising). See also: Genesis 4:8; Numbers 30:13; Ruth 4:10.

נֵד nêd H5067 "heap" N-ms

A heap or mound, like a wave, as described in Job 39:10.

Definition: heap

Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: heap. See also: Exodus 15:8; Psalms 33:7; Psalms 78:13.

אֶחָ֗ד ʼechâd H259 "one" Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.

Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)

Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.

הַרְחֵ֨ק râchaq H7368 "to remove" V-Hiphil-Ptc

To remove or go far away, as in Genesis 21:16 where Hagar is sent away by Abraham. It means to create distance or separate oneself from something or someone.

Definition: v 1) to be or become far, be or become distant, be removed, go far away 1a) (Qal) to be far, be distant 1b) (Piel) to send far away, extend 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to make or exhibit distance, be gone far 1c2) to remove, put far away 2) (Niphal) loose v inf (as adv) 3) at a distance

Usage: Occurs in 56 OT verses. KJV: (a-, be, cast, drive, get, go, keep (self), put, remove, be too, (wander), withdraw) far (away, off), loose, [idiom] refrain, very, (be) a good way (off). See also: Genesis 21:16; Psalms 119:150; Psalms 22:12.

מְאֹ֜ד mᵉʼôd H3966 "much" Adv

Meod means 'much' or 'very' and is used to emphasize something. It can mean 'exceedingly' or 'greatly' and is often used to show strong feelings or actions.

Definition: adv 1) exceedingly, much subst 2) might, force, abundance n m 3) muchness, force, abundance, exceedingly 3a) force, might 3b) exceedingly, greatly, very (idioms showing magnitude or degree) 3b1) exceedingly 3b2) up to abundance, to a great degree, exceedingly 3b3) with muchness, muchness

Usage: Occurs in 278 OT verses. KJV: diligently, especially, exceeding(-ly), far, fast, good, great(-ly), [idiom] louder and louder, might(-ily, -y), (so) much, quickly, (so) sore, utterly, very ([phrase] much, sore), well. See also: Genesis 1:31; 1 Samuel 11:6; Psalms 6:4.

ב/אדם ʼÂdâm H121 "Adam" Prep | N-proper

Adam was the first man created by God, and the name also refers to a city in the Jordan valley, with the meaning red.

Definition: Adam = "red" city in Jordan valley

Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Adam. See also: Genesis 3:17; Genesis 5:5; Hosea 6:7.

מֵֽ/אָדָ֤ם ʼÂdâm H121 "Adam" Prep | N-proper

Adam was the first man created by God, and the name also refers to a city in the Jordan valley, with the meaning red.

Definition: Adam = "red" city in Jordan valley

Usage: Occurs in 10 OT verses. KJV: Adam. See also: Genesis 3:17; Genesis 5:5; Hosea 6:7.

הָ/עִיר֙ ʻîyr H5892 "excitement" Art | N-fs

In the Bible, this word refers to a city or town, often a place with a wall or a watchman. It is used to describe a settlement or encampment, like the city of Ai, which is mentioned in the book of Joshua. The word is used to identify specific locations in the Bible.

Definition: 1) excitement, anguish 1a) of terror

Usage: Occurs in 936 OT verses. KJV: Ai (from margin), city, court (from margin), town. See also: Genesis 4:17; Deuteronomy 3:6; Joshua 14:12.

אֲשֶׁר֙ ʼăsher H834 "which" Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

מִ/צַּ֣ד tsad H6654 "side" Prep | N-ms

This word refers to the side of something, like the side of a building or a person's side. It can also mean an enemy or adversary, like someone who opposes you. It is used in the Bible to describe locations or relationships.

Definition: side Aramaic equivalent: tsad (צַד "side" H6655)

Usage: Occurs in 27 OT verses. KJV: (be-) side. See also: Genesis 6:16; 1 Samuel 6:8; Psalms 91:7.

צָֽרְתָ֔ן Tsârᵉthân H6891 "Zarethan" N-proper

Zarethan, or Zarthan, refers to a place in the Jordan valley where the river parted for Israel to cross, meaning their distress. This event was crucial in the conquest of Canaan.

Definition: § Zarthan or Zaretan = "their distress" a place in the Jordan valley where the river parted for Israel to pass over for the conquest of Canaan

Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: Zarthan. q See also: Joshua 3:16; 1 Kings 4:12; 1 Kings 7:46.

וְ/הַ/יֹּרְדִ֗ים yârad H3381 "to go down" Conj | Art | V-Qal

To go down or descend, like going to a lower place or falling. It appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing people and things moving downwards.

עַ֣ל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

יָ֧ם yâm H3220 "West" N-ms

Refers to a large body of water like the Mediterranean Sea or a sea in general, sometimes specifically the west or seaward direction.

Definition: This name means sea, seaward, westward Another name of eph.ron (עֶפְרוֹן "(Mount )Ephron" H6085H)

Usage: Occurs in 339 OT verses. KJV: sea ([idiom] -faring man, (-shore)), south, west (-ern, side, -ward). See also: Genesis 1:10; Joshua 17:10; Psalms 8:9.

הָ/עֲרָבָ֛ה ʻărâbâh H6160 "plain" Art | N-fs

The Arabah is a desert plain near the Jordan River, stretching to the Red Sea, and is often translated as wilderness or desert in the Bible. It is mentioned in books like Numbers and Deuteronomy.

Definition: § desert plain, steppe, desert, wilderness

Usage: Occurs in 57 OT verses. KJV: Arabah, champaign, desert, evening, heaven, plain, wilderness. See also H1026 (בֵּית הָעֲרָבָה). See also: Numbers 22:1; 1 Samuel 23:24; Psalms 68:5.

יָם yâm H3220 "West" N-ms

Refers to a large body of water like the Mediterranean Sea or a sea in general, sometimes specifically the west or seaward direction.

Definition: This name means sea, seaward, westward Another name of eph.ron (עֶפְרוֹן "(Mount )Ephron" H6085H)

Usage: Occurs in 339 OT verses. KJV: sea ([idiom] -faring man, (-shore)), south, west (-ern, side, -ward). See also: Genesis 1:10; Joshua 17:10; Psalms 8:9.

הַ/מֶּ֖לַח melach H4417 "salt" Art | N-ms

This Hebrew word refers specifically to salt that is easily pulverized and dissolved, often used to season food. It is also associated with salt pits, where salt was harvested. The word highlights the importance of salt in ancient Israelite life.

Definition: salt

Usage: Occurs in 26 OT verses. KJV: salt(-pit). See also: Genesis 14:3; Judges 9:45; Psalms 60:2.

תַּ֣מּוּ tâmam H8552 "to finish" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

To finish or complete something, either in a good or bad sense, like when God finished creating the world in Genesis. It can also mean to be consumed or destroyed. The KJV Bible uses words like accomplish, cease, or have done to translate it.

Definition: 1) to be complete, be finished, be at an end 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be finished, be completed 1a1a) completely, wholly, entirely (as auxiliary with verb) 1a2) to be finished, come to an end, cease 1a3) to be complete (of number) 1a4) to be consumed, be exhausted, be spent 1a5) to be finished, be consumed, be destroyed 1a6) to be complete, be sound, be unimpaired, be upright (ethically) 1a7) to complete, finish 1a8) to be completely crossed over 1b) (Niphal) to be consumed 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to finish, complete, perfect 1c2) to finish, cease doing, leave off doing 1c3) to complete, sum up, make whole 1c4) to destroy (uncleanness) 1c5) to make sound 1d) (Hithpael) to deal in integrity, act uprightly

Usage: Occurs in 61 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, cease, be clean (pass-) ed, consume, have done, (come to an, have an, make an) end, fail, come to the full, be all gone, [idiom] be all here, be (make) perfect, be spent, sum, be (shew self) upright, be wasted, whole. See also: Genesis 47:15; 2 Kings 22:4; Psalms 9:7.

נִכְרָ֑תוּ kârath H3772 "to cut" V-Niphal-Perf-3cp

This Hebrew word means to cut or destroy something, but it also has a special meaning related to making a covenant or agreement. In Genesis 15:18, God makes a covenant with Abram, symbolized by cutting animals in half, showing the seriousness of the promise. This word is used to describe important agreements and alliances.

Definition: : cut/fell 1) to cut, cut off, cut down, cut off a body part, cut out, eliminate, kill, cut a covenant 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to cut off 1a1a) to cut off a body part, behead 1a2) to cut down 1a3) to hew 1a4) to cut or make a covenant 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be cut off 1b2) to be cut down 1b3) to be chewed 1b4) to be cut off, fail 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be cut off 1c2) to be cut down 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cut off 1d2) to cut off, destroy 1d3) to cut down, destroy 1d4) to take away 1d5) to permit to perish 1e) (Hophal) cut off

Usage: Occurs in 280 OT verses. KJV: be chewed, be con-(feder-) ate, covenant, cut (down, off), destroy, fail, feller, be freed, hew (down), make a league (covenant), [idiom] lose, perish, [idiom] utterly, [idiom] want. See also: Genesis 9:11; 1 Samuel 24:6; Psalms 12:4.

וְ/הָ/עָ֥ם ʻam H5971 "Amaw" Conj | Art | N-ms

A people or nation is what this Hebrew word represents, like the nation of Israel in Exodus 33:13. It can also mean a tribe, troops, or attendants, and is used to describe a group of people gathered together. The word is often used to refer to the people of God.

Definition: This name means nation, people

Usage: Occurs in 1655 OT verses. KJV: folk, men, nation, people. See also: Genesis 11:6; Exodus 16:4; Leviticus 17:9.

עָבְר֖וּ ʻâbar H5674 "to pass" V-Qal-Perf-3cp

This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.

Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over

Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.

נֶ֥גֶד neged H5048 "before" Prep

Before or in front of something, as in Genesis 18:22 where Abraham stands before the Lord. It describes a position of being face to face or in someone's presence.

Definition: subst 1) what is conspicuous, what is in front of adv 2) in front of, straight forward, before, in sight of 3) in front of oneself, straightforward 4) before your face, in your view or purpose with prep 5) what is in front of, corresponding to 6) in front of, before 7) in the sight or presence of 8) parallel to 9) over, for 10) in front, opposite 11) at a distance prep 12) from the front of, away from 13) from before the eyes of, opposite to, at a distance from 14) from before, in front of 15) as far as the front of Aramaic equivalent: ne.ged (נֶ֫גֶד "before" H5049)

Usage: Occurs in 142 OT verses. KJV: about, (over) against, [idiom] aloof, [idiom] far (off), [idiom] from, over, presence, [idiom] other side, sight, [idiom] to view. See also: Genesis 2:18; Job 10:17; Psalms 10:5.

יְרִיחֽוֹ Yᵉrîychôw H3405 "Jericho" N-proper

Jericho was a city in Palestine, the first conquered by the Israelites in Canaan. Its name means 'its moon' and it was located near the Jordan River and the Dead Sea.

Definition: Jericho = "its moon" a city 5 miles (8 km) west of the Jordan and 7 miles (11.5 km) north of the Dead Sea and the first city conquered by the Israelites upon entering the promised land of Canaan Also named: Hierichō (Ἱεριχώ "Jericho" G2410)

Usage: Occurs in 53 OT verses. KJV: Jericho. See also: Numbers 22:1; Joshua 9:3; Jeremiah 39:5.

Study Notes — Joshua 3:16

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Joshua 3:16 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Joshua 3:16
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Joshua 3:16
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Joshua 3:16
Trapp's Commentary on Joshua 3:16
Ellicott's Commentary on Joshua 3:16
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Joshua 3:16
Cambridge Bible on Joshua 3:16
Barnes' Notes on Joshua 3:16
Whedon's Commentary on Joshua 3:16
Sermons on Joshua 3:16

Context — Crossing the Jordan

14So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carried the ark of the covenant ahead of them. 15Now the Jordan overflows its banks throughout the harvest season. But as soon as the priests carrying the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge,

16the flowing water stood still. It backed up as far upstream as Adam, a city in the area of Zarethan, while the water flowing toward the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho.

17The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel crossed over the dry ground, until the entire nation had crossed the Jordan.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Joshua 3:13	When the feet of the priests who carry the ark of the LORD—the Lord of all the earth—touch down in the waters of the Jordan, its flowing waters will be cut off and will stand up in a heap.”
2	1 Kings 4:12	Baana son of Ahilud in Taanach, in Megiddo, and in all of Beth-shean next to Zarethan below Jezreel, from Beth-shean to Abel-meholah and on past Jokmeam;
3	1 Kings 7:46	The king had them cast in clay molds in the plain of the Jordan between Succoth and Zarethan.
4	Genesis 14:3	The latter five came as allies to the Valley of Siddim (that is, the Salt Sea ).
5	Deuteronomy 1:1	These are the words that Moses spoke to all Israel in the wilderness east of the Jordan—in the Arabah opposite Suph—between Paran and Tophel, Laban, Hazeroth, and Dizahab.
6	Numbers 34:3	Your southern border will extend from the Wilderness of Zin along the border of Edom. On the east, your southern border will run from the end of the Salt Sea,
7	Psalms 114:3	The sea observed and fled; the Jordan turned back;
8	Deuteronomy 3:17	The Jordan River in the Arabah bordered it from Chinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ) with the slopes of Pisgah to the east.
9	Psalms 29:10	The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever.
10	Psalms 77:19	Your path led through the sea, Your way through the mighty waters, but Your footprints were not to be found.

Joshua 3:16 Summary

In Joshua 3:16, we see a miraculous event where the Jordan River is parted, allowing the Israelites to cross over on dry ground. This miracle shows us that God is all-powerful and can make a way for us, even when it seems impossible (as seen in Exodus 14:21-22). Just as the Israelites had to trust God to part the Jordan River, we can trust Him to make a way for us in our own lives, even when we face challenges and uncertainties (as promised in Psalm 107:33). By trusting in God's power and provision, we can have confidence that He will see us through, just as He saw the Israelites through the Jordan River and into the Promised Land.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Jordan River in Joshua 3:16?

The Jordan River represents a barrier that God miraculously parted, allowing the Israelites to cross into the Promised Land, just as He parted the Red Sea in Exodus 14:21-22, demonstrating His power and provision for His people.

How did the water 'stand still' in Joshua 3:16?

The water stood still because God stopped the flow of the Jordan River, backing it up as far as Adam, a city in the area of Zarethan, allowing the Israelites to cross over on dry ground, much like the miracle of Exodus 14:29 where the Israelites crossed the Red Sea.

What is the area of Zarethan and its significance?

The area of Zarethan is near the city of Adam, and it is significant because it marks the point where the Jordan River was backed up, demonstrating God's miraculous power and control over nature, as seen in other passages like Psalm 107:33 where God controls the waters.

How does this miracle relate to our lives today?

This miracle reminds us that God is still a God of miracles and provision, and just as He parted the Jordan River for the Israelites, He can also make a way for us in our own lives, as promised in Isaiah 43:2-3, where He says He will be with us in the midst of troubles.

Reflection Questions

What are the 'rivers' in my life that seem impossible to cross, and how can I trust God to part them for me?
How can I apply the principle of trusting God's power and provision, as seen in Joshua 3:16, to my own life and circumstances?
What are some areas where I need to see God's miraculous power and intervention, and how can I pray and trust Him for those things?
How does the image of the priests standing firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan River inspire me to stand firm in my own faith, even in challenging circumstances?

Gill's Exposition on Joshua 3:16

That the waters which came down from above,.... Above where the priests' feet rested, and which came down from Mount Lebanon, and the fountains of Jordan northward: stood [and] rose up upon an heap;

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Joshua 3:16

That the waters which came down from above stood and rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, even the salt sea,

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Joshua 3:16

The waters rose up upon an heap; which having been affirmed by heathen writers to have been done by magicians, it is great impudence to disbelieve or doubt of God’ s power to do it. Adam, that is beside Zaretan: the city Adam being more obscure, is described by its nearness to a more known place, Zaretan, or Zarthan, which some think is the same place mentioned 7:46; but it rather seems to have been another place then eminent, but now unknown, as many thousands are. The meaning is, that the waters were stopped in their course at that place, and so kept at a due distance from the Israelites whilst they passed over. Right against Jericho; here God carried them over, because this part was, 1. The strongest, as having in its neighbourhood an eminent city, a potent king, and a stout and warlike people. 2. The most pleasant and fruitful, and therefore more convenient both for the refreshment of the Israelites after their long and tedious marches, and for their encouragement to their present expedition.

Trapp's Commentary on Joshua 3:16

Joshua 3:16 That the waters which came down from above stood [and] rose up upon an heap very far from the city Adam, that [is] beside Zaretan: and those that came down toward the sea of the plain, [even] the salt sea, failed, [and] were cut off: and the people passed over right against Jericho.Ver. 16. That is beside Zaretan.] A city in the tribe of Ephraim, called also Zererath in Judges 7:22, and Zereda in 1 Kings 11:26. Failed, and were cut off.] Quickly perished in the lake Asphaltites, or Dead Sea, Tanquam si repente fuissent dissectae gladio, ut Job 6:15, as if they had been suddenly cut in twain with a sword, And the people passed over.] Not by bridges or boats, but on foot, dry shod, though in such an inundation. Right over against Jericho.] The place being therehence called Bethabara, as some think, or Traiectum, the place of passage. Here baptism was first administered, where it had been foreshadowed. Christ is the true Bethabara. Tremell.

Ellicott's Commentary on Joshua 3:16

(16) Very far from the city Adam, that is beside Zaretan.—The written text is “in Adam,” but the Masorites read it “from Adam.” The reading makes no difference to the literal fact. The two prepositions, in and from, express the same thought. The heap of water stood up as it were in Adam. From Adam to the place where Israel crossed, the river-bed was dry—the heap was as far away as Adam, but as it was not actually in the city, the word in was most likely altered to from. The more difficult reading, in, may very possibly be the best. For Zaretan see 1 Kings 4:12; 1 Kings 7:46. Adam, as the name of a city, does not occur elsewhere. The meaning of the fact has been well pointed out by Bishop Wordsworth on this place. Zaretan was beneath Jezreel, but has not been identified. Adam has been thought to be at the ford Damieh, thirty miles away.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Joshua 3:16

Verse 16. Rose up upon a heap] That is, they continued to accumulate, filling up the whole of the channel toward the source, and the adjacent ground over which they were now spread, to a much greater depth, the power of God giving a contrary direction to the current. We need not suppose them to be gathered up like a mountain, instar montis, as the Vulgate expresses it, but that they continued to flow back in the course of the channel; and ere they could have reached the lake of Gennesareth, where they might have been easily accumulated, the whole Israelitish army would have all got safely to the opposite side. Very far from the city Adam - beside Zaretan] Where these places were it is difficult to say. The city Adam is wholly unknown. From 1Kg 4:12 we learn that Zartanah was below Jezreel near Bethshean, or Scythopolis, and not far from Succoth, 1Kg 7:46. And it appears from Genesis 33:17, Joshua 13:27, that Succoth lay on the east side of Jordan, not far from the lake of Gennesareth; and probably Adam was on the same side to the north of Succoth. It is probable that the Israelites crossed the Jordan near Bethabara, where John baptized, John 1:28, and which probably had its name, the house of passage, from this very circumstance. After all, it is extremely difficult to ascertain the exact situation of these places, as in the lapse of upwards of 3,000 years the face of the country must have been materially changed. Seas, rivers, and mountains, change not; and though we cannot ascertain the spot, it is sufficiently evident that we can come near to the place. It has been considered a lame objection against the truth of the Iliad that the situation of Troy cannot now be exactly ascertained. There are even many ancient cities and considerable towns in Europe, that, though they still bear their former names, do not occupy the same spot. There are not a few of those even in England; among such Norwich, Salisbury, c., may be ranked, neither of which is in its primitive situation. Right against Jericho.] It would be impossible for the whole camp to pass over in the space opposite to Jericho, as they must have taken up some miles in breadth, besides the 2,000 cubits which were left on the right between them and the ark but the river was divided opposite to Jericho, and there the camp began to pass over.

Cambridge Bible on Joshua 3:16

16. the waters which came down from above] Let us try to realise the scene;— (a) At a distance of about 2000 cubits, or a mile, from the river stood the great mass of the army (Joshua 3:4). (b) On the broken edge of the river were the priests bearing on their shoulders the sacred Ark; (c) As soon as the feet of the priests were “dipped in the brim of the water,” the flow of the stream was arrested; (d) Far up, beyond where they stood, at the city of Adam, that is beside Zaretan, about 30 miles from the place where the host was encamped, the waters which rushed down from above “stood and rose upon an heap,” drawn up by the Divine Hand; (e) At the same moment the waters that came down toward the Salt Sea “failed and were cut off” (Joshua 3:16), and thus from north to south the waters were “driven backwards” (Psalms 114:3), and the dry river-bed was exposed to view. from the city Adam] is a correction of the text. The Hebrew has, at the city Adam, which was situated, it is thought, where now we find the ford Damieh with remains of a bridge of the Roman period (Van de Velde, Narrative, 11. 322). beside Zaretan] Or, more correctly, Zarthan (1 Kings 4:12; 1 Kings 7:46), the situation of which is unknown, but it is thought to have been near Succoth, at the mouth of the Jabbok (1 Kings 7:46). By some it has been identified with the modern Surtabeh, an isolated hill some 17 miles above Jericho, where high rocks compress the Jordan Valley within its narrowest limits, and seem almost to throw a barrier across it. the sea of the plain] This name, which also occurs in Deuteronomy 3:17; Deuteronomy 4:49, is used for the Dead Sea, the waters of which are clear, but strongly tinctured with salt, and fatal to fish. failed] “The scene presented is of the descending stream,’ not ‘parted asunder,’ as we generally fancy, but as the Psalm (Psalms 114:3) expresses it, ‘turned backwards;’ the whole bed of the river left dry from north to south, through its long windings; the huge stones lying bare here and there, imbedded in the soft bottom; or the shingly pebbles drifted along the course of the channel.” Stanley’s Lectures, p. 232.

Barnes' Notes on Joshua 3:16

The passage should run “rose up, an heap far away, by Adam, the city which is beside Zarthan.” The city of Adam is not named elsewhere, and Zarthan (mentioned here and in marginal references.) has also disappeared.

Whedon's Commentary on Joshua 3:16

16. The city Adam, that is beside Zaretan — It is impossible to locate these cities; no traces of them remain. The latter city is elsewhere more correctly spelled Zarthan.

Sermons on Joshua 3:16

	Sermon	Description
	Guilt and Freedom by David Roper	In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the book of Joshua and the thrilling days of Israel's conquest of the land. He emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience as crucial
	In His Presence by Don Courville	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the events of Joshua chapters 3 and 4, where the Israelites crossed the Jordan River. He compares this crossing to their previous crossing of
	The Ark of the Covenant by Henry Law	Henry Law preaches about the significance of the Ark of the Covenant in the Tabernacle, highlighting how it represents Christ as the Ark of redemption, the embodiment of the Law, a
	Go Forward by Charles E. Cowman	Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of walking by faith and taking God at His Word, using the example of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River. He emphasizes the nee
	Stand Still and Wait by David Wilkerson	David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of standing still and waiting for God's direction, as illustrated in Isaiah 30:21. He explains that God's voice often comes through Script
	A Little Touchy by Ed Wrather	Ed Wrather emphasizes the importance of displaying Christian love in all situations, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13, which describes love as patient, kind, not envious, not proud,
	Enter Into His Rest by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the preacher begins by leading the congregation in praise and worship, emphasizing the importance of praising and magnifying the name of Jesus. He encourages the be