The priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood in the middle of the Jordan River. Initially, they paused at the riverbank, and then, when the waters receded, they positioned themselves in the dry riverbed, remaining there until all the people had crossed (Hab. 4:11). All the children of Israel passed over on dry ground until every individual had crossed the Jordan. This crossing could have been accomplished in a short time, assuming the crossing span was seven or more versts wide on the dry bed. Leading the way were chosen warriors from the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, who had settled beyond the Jordan (Num. 4:12-13). Once all the people reached the shore, the priests with the ark of the covenant followed them, and swiftly the waters returned to their place, overflowing their banks (- 18). The passage in question is traditionally read on the feast of the Baptism of the Lord, as the miraculous event it describes foreshadows Christ's baptism. Joshua's authority as the leader of God’s people was reaffirmed through this miraculous crossing, similarly, the glory of Jesus Christ as a public teacher and spiritual leader commenced at His baptism in the Jordan. This connection is recognized by Cyril of Jerusalem, expressing that Joshua began his leadership at the Jordan, and likewise, Christ initiated His ministry post-baptism. The baptism of Jesus was one of redemption; as He was sinless, He had no need for purification in the Jordan’s waters. Rather, He descended into the waters for our sake, inaugurating the path to our salvation, just as the Israelites were led into the land of Canaan through the Jordan. A hymn reflects this prefigurement of Christ's baptism: "At the parting of the Jordan in ancient times, the people of Israel crossed on dry land, imitating You, the Almighty, Who now guide creation unswervingly to the steadfast and better way" (On the Epiphany, 2nd canon, song 7). Some interpret the event of Christ’s baptism as causing the Jordan to recede, a reflection of the waters receding during the Israelites' crossing. In a hymn for the Feast of the Epiphany, it states, “The hand of the Forerunner trembled as it touched Thy pure head; the Jordan turned back, not daring to serve Thee. Why are you ashamed, Joshua? How can you fear your Creator without naming Him?”
THEOSIS