יהושע, פרק ג׳, פסוק י״ד

The crossing of the Jordan River marks a dramatic peak in the Israelites' journey, demanding absolute faith from the nation. Facing a raging river overflowing its banks during the harvest season, the people advance with the full expectation of an open miracle that will defy the laws of nature.

Packing up and leaving their camp is not merely a technical step in their travels, but a profound display of deep trust. The departure from their tents highlights the nation's strong desire and complete faith. They set out without a trace of doubt, driven by the clear goal of crossing the water [אלשיך]. In fact, by the time the priests reach the riverbank, the entire nation has already moved from their encampment and is advancing right alongside them [מלבי״ם].

Marching at the very front of the camp, the priests carry the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark earns this title either because it holds the stone tablets within it, or because the Ark itself represents God's covenant, serving as a miraculous symbol for the people [מלבי״ם]. By carrying the Ark ahead of the nation, the priests lead the way toward an unprecedented wonder.

Joshua promises the splitting of the river without setting a specific time in advance. This lack of a schedule proves beyond any doubt that the event is a genuine miracle, completely ruling out the possibility of a predictable natural phenomenon [רלב״ג]. The halting of the river depends entirely on the exact moment the soles of the priests' feet touch the overflowing water. At that precise instant, the waters flowing from upstream will stop and stand upright like a solid wall, while the downstream waters will continue to flow into the Dead Sea. This leaves a completely dry path for the entire nation to safely cross [רלב״ג, אברבנאל].