יהושע, פרק ו׳, פסוק א׳

The city of Jericho stands in total isolation, paralyzed by the approaching Israelite army. It presents itself as a heavily fortified target that appears completely impossible to conquer. The city's lockdown was absolute, a reality understood in a few different ways by commentators. One perspective views this as an unprecedented physical reinforcement of the city's defenses. While Jericho was always a secure city protected by doors and bars, the terrified residents added extreme defensive measures, locking it tightly with iron doors and copper bars [רש״י, רד״ק, מצודת דוד]. Another approach understands the situation as a strict two-way blockade. The city was sealed from the inside by its own people to stop anyone from leaving, while simultaneously blocked from the outside by the Israelite siege, ensuring no one could enter [רד״ק, אברבנאל].

This total isolation stemmed from the residents' deep anxiety and dread of the Israelites [צאינה וראינה, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. By sealing themselves inside, the people of Jericho hoped to hide the city's entryways and weak points from the enemy [מצודת דוד]. Practically, this meant that no resident could slip out to surrender, negotiate peace, or escape, just as no military force could forcefully break in [אברבנאל].

This airtight lockdown was not merely a natural reaction born of fear, but a deliberate part of God's plan. Often, places destined for destruction experience early warning signs, such as doors opening on their own, which might prompt the inhabitants to realize their fate and flee. However, God prevented any such signs, keeping the city entirely sealed so the residents could neither escape nor make peace with the Israelites [חומת אנך].

Ultimately, highlighting the complete absence of any natural or human way to penetrate the city sets the stage for the events to follow. Because conquering Jericho through standard military tactics was completely impossible, it becomes clear that the impending victory and the collapse of the walls could only occur through a direct miracle from God [אברבנאל].