Infinitive absolute הָכֵן in Josh 3:17 is usually translated by the adverb “firmly” which allegedly characterizes the pose of the priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the Lord. This accepted translation seems to be heavily influenced by the Vulgate tradition, and yet, it is not supported by the Septuagint. The present study highlights the weaknesses of the commonly repeated translation and justifies an alternative rendition of the Hebrew infinitive as an adjective that characterizes Jordan – stopped flowing because of the procession led by the Lord of all the earth.

Keywords: Jordan, Joshua, the ark of the covenant of the Lord, priests, Josh 3:17.