Gilgal
Gilgal was the first encampment of the Israelites after they crossed the Jordan River into Canaan under Joshua's leadership. There, Joshua erected a memorial of twelve stones taken from the riverbed to commemorate God's miraculous parting of the waters for future generations. At this site the new generation of Israelite males was circumcised to renew the covenant, the Passover was celebrated, and the daily provision of manna ceased as they began eating the produce of the land. Gilgal later served as the base camp for the conquest of Jericho and other cities, underscoring its role as a place of covenant renewal, remembrance, and transition into the Promised Land.
Details
- Region
- Canaan
- Modern Location
- Near Jericho, Palestinian Territories
Journey Paths
Key Passages
Memorial Stones
Joshua 4:19-24
Israel sets up twelve stones at Gilgal after crossing the Jordan - creating a permanent memorial that future generations can point to and remember God's faithfulness.
19nd the people came up out of Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and encamped in Gilgal, in the east border of Jericho.
Saul Made King
1 Samuel 11:14-15
Israel's first king is publicly confirmed at Gilgal - a place of new beginnings that now marks the beginning of the monarchy.
14hen said Samuel to the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there.