The core themes in The Battle of Jericho revolve around the powerful forces of peer pressure and the desire for social acceptance. High school life often presents a battleground where the need to belong can drive young individuals to make questionable choices. Jericho's journey vividly illustrates the struggle between embracing challenges that foster personal growth and succumbing to harmful hazing rituals that undermine one's integrity.

As Jericho navigates the intense pledge process, readers are invited to discern the pivotal moments when he crosses the threshold from positive experiences to detrimental actions. These moments vary for each observer—some may see the turning point when he sneaks out at night, others when he resorts to theft, and still others during the series of pledge stunts he endures. The narrative encourages readers to reflect on their own boundaries and the lengths they might go to achieve acceptance.

Despite the evident warning signs of the degrading practices they engage in, Jericho and his peers are blinded by the allure of belonging. They ignore the costs, believing the rewards of inclusion in the exclusive circle justify any sacrifice. However, the story ultimately reveals the fallacy of this belief, illustrating the profound consequences that can arise from prioritizing acceptance over personal values.

The power of the book lies in its unflinching portrayal of a worst-case scenario, inviting readers not just to see it as a cautionary tale but also to delve into the complexity of moral struggles. This narrative journey highlights how the erosion of ethical boundaries in seemingly trivial matters can pave the way for more significant transgressions. By illustrating the incremental steps from minor to major breaches of morality, the story underscores the gravity of our choices. It is not just about the consequences of wrong decisions, but also about the internal battle that precedes them, prompting readers to reflect on their own moral compass.