Moses And Joshuas Crossings Essays - Book Of Exodus, Moses, Joshua

Moses' and Joshua's Crossings The Israelite's flight from Egyptian bondage was, arguably, the event that united them as a people. Not only did their account of escape from being enslaved by a more powerful people have mythological qualities, but the trek that followed as they journeyed to the Promised Land was also discouraging and difficult. It is not surprising, then, that from the stories surrounding their escape and final entrance into the Promised Land contain events that defy modern scientific explanation. Moses' parting of the Red Sea is one of the most famous accounts from the Old Testament. Additionally, while it is less well known, Joshua's similar feat at the border of the Promised Land on the banks of the river Jordan is equally amazing. The accounts of these two events are strikingly similar, and the similarities only serve to enforce the feeling of wonder at the power of God. Further, the differences between the two accounts indicate an evolution into a more empowered and majestic representation of the Israelite's favor with God. In comparing the two similar phenomena, it is important to consider the effect that their occurrence had on other people and cultures. Very obviously, the Egyptians were affected by Moses' parting of the Red Sea. However, beyond the obvious fact that their warriors and Pharaoh were killed, it was also a way by which God made His power known even to those who were not His chosen people and did not believe in His sovereignty. His intentions in commanding Moses to lead the people through the sea was more than mere convenience, it was also showmanship. ...so that I may win glory for myself at the expense of Pharaoh and all his army; and the Egyptians will know that I am the Lord.'?(Exodus 14:4) Similarly, Joshua's parting of the Jordan River convinced local peoples of God's power and his investment in the Israelite's well being. ... the Amorite kings ...and all the Caananite kings ... heard how the Lord had dried up the waters of the Jordan before the advance of the Israelites ..., their courage failed them; there was no more spirit left in them because of the Israelites. (Joshua 5:1) The large correlation not only in the affect that these events had on surrounding cultures, but also the similar motivations attributed to God serves to evince even further basis for comparison. Moses and Joshua are strikingly similar leaders charged with virtually identical tasks: provide for, protect and guide the chosen people physically as well as spiritually. Both are personally acquainted with the God that they spend their lives serving. As opposed to the somewhat removed relationships between God and His servants later in the Old Testament, both have a relationship bordering on camaraderie with the Lord. Moses speaks with Him personally, like a friend. When Joshua assumes his position, he also has an intensely personal and direct connection to God. These connections separate both Moses and Joshua from even the most devout among the Israelites. Maintaining such a rapport with God allows both Moses and Joshua to be given the power to part water at God's command. Details from the events themselves are also very similar. In comparing the actual appearances of the parted waters, it seems that the Israelites both in Moses' time as well as those following Joshua saw very similar things. Moses' crossing is described as, the Israelites had passed along the dry ground through the sea, with the water forming a wall to right and to left.? (Exodus 14:29) While the parting itself is different for Joshua's people, the river ends up very much like the Red Sea. it piled up like a bank?The water coming down to the sea ... was completely cut ...? (Joshua 3:16). It is important to draw the distinction between the actual methods by which the two bodies of water are parted. In Moses' case, it his power given to him by God that allows the miracle to occur. The account reads, ?Moses held out his hand over the sea...and turned the seabed into dry land? (Exodus 14:21). However, Joshua could not single-handedly part the river himself. Instead, the twelve tribes and the power of the ark of the covenant