What kind of sanctification was done in Joshua 3:5?
In Joshua 3:5, we read about the Israelites preparing to cross the Jordan River and enter the Promised Land. Before they could cross, Joshua spoke to the people and said, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.” The phrase “consecrate yourselves” can also be translated as “sanctify yourselves,” which raises the question: what kind of sanctification was being done?
In the Old Testament, sanctification referred to the process of making something or someone holy. This could be done through rituals like sacrifices, but it could also be accomplished through personal actions like repentance and obedience to God’s commands. In the case of Joshua 3:5, the Israelites were being called to sanctify themselves in preparation for the Lord’s miraculous work.
This kind of sanctification likely involved a few different things. First, it probably involved a physical cleansing. This could have taken the form of bathing and washing their clothes, as was often required for ceremonial cleanliness. Second, it likely involved a spiritual preparation. The Israelites would have been called to repent of any sins or disobedience they had committed, and to renew their commitment to following God’s commands. Finally, it probably involved a mental and emotional preparation. The people needed to be focused and ready to witness God’s amazing work, so they may have been encouraged to pray, meditate, and mentally prepare themselves for what was to come.