Circumcision rite in Gilgal (Josh 5:2–9) when the relationship of the chosen people with YHWH is renewed Cover Image

Ryt obrzezania w Gilgal (Joz 5,2–9) momentem odnowienia relacji narodu wybranego z JHWH
Circumcision rite in Gilgal (Josh 5:2–9) when the relationship of the chosen people with YHWH is renewed

Author(s): Łukasz Florczyk
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Theology and Religion, Biblical studies
Published by: Wydawnictwo Naukowe Uniwersytetu Szczecińskiego
Keywords: reproach of Egypt; Gilgal; Joshua; flint knive; physical circumcision; maturity; covenant; circumcision of the heart; new and faithful people

Summary/Abstract: Biblical covenants were often accompanied by signs, e.g. a rainbow (Gen 9:12–17), blood of young bulls (Exod 24:3–8) or bread and wine (Luke 22:19–20). The external sign of the covenant God made with Abraham was circumcision (Gen 17:9–14). This rite was neglected during a forty-year journey through the desert. However, after crossing Jordan, Yahweh applied for this sign. Just as physical circumcision was a condition of taking possession of the Promised Land, circumcision of the heart was a condition of keeping this land in the hands of the Israelites and guaranteed security and prosperity. This article presents a detailed analysis of the pericope of Josh 5:2–9, which speaks about circumcision in Gilgal and the renewal of the chosen people’s relationship with God.

  • Issue Year: 2020
  • Issue No: 27
  • Page Range: 13-30
  • Page Count: 18
  • Language: Polish