The story of the fall of Jericho in Joshua 6 is one of the most well-known accounts in the Bible. It provides a remarkable example God’s power and grace; and the faith and obedience to God’s plan that He expects of us in response.
The event has also been a focal point for critics questioning the historical accuracy of Scripture. Yet, archaeological evidence continues to affirm the biblical narrative.
In the 1930s and again in the 1950s, excavations in Jericho resulted in remarkable findings. Archaeologists uncovered walls that appeared to have collapsed suddenly, an event consistent with the biblical account of Joshua’s conquest. Layers of burnt debris were discovered, suggesting a swift and destructive event that matches the account in the book of Joshua.
The Bible records: “So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened… that the wall fell down flat” (Joshua 6:20 NKJV). The NT reaffirms: “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days” (Heb. 11:30).
While there is ongoing scholarly debate over the precise dating of these events, the physical evidence strongly supports the biblical story.
Archaeology does not establish faith, but such discoveries can bolster the confidence of believers, confirming that the ancient text aligns with the findings of modern research.
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