Joshua 2:2

And it was reported to the king of Jericho: "Behold, some men of Israel have come here tonight to spy out the land."

Study Bible

And it was reported
The phrase indicates a communication or message that was delivered to the king. In the Hebrew text, the word used here is "נאמר" (ne'emar), which means "it was said" or "it was told." This suggests a network of informants or a vigilant watch over the city, highlighting the tension and alertness in Jericho as Israel approached. The vigilance of the city reflects the fear and anticipation of the Israelites' arrival, as their reputation had preceded them.

to the king of Jericho
Jericho was a significant city in Canaan, and its king would have been a central figure in the defense and governance of the city. The title "king" (Hebrew: "מלך", melech) indicates a ruler with authority and responsibility over the city-state. Historically, Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities, and its strategic location made it a key target for the Israelites. The king's involvement underscores the seriousness of the situation and the perceived threat from the Israelites.

Behold
This word is used to draw attention to the importance or urgency of the message. In Hebrew, "הנה" (hinneh) is often used to emphasize the significance of what follows. It serves as a call to focus on the critical nature of the report, indicating that the presence of the Israelite spies was a matter of great concern.

some men of Israel
The phrase identifies the individuals as belonging to the nation of Israel. The term "men" (Hebrew: "אנשים", anashim) is generic but significant, as it implies representatives or agents acting on behalf of the larger community. Israel, at this point, was a nation on the move, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham regarding the land of Canaan. The mention of "Israel" connects the spies to the larger narrative of God's covenant and the unfolding of His divine plan.

have come here tonight
The timing of the spies' arrival, "tonight," suggests stealth and urgency. The Hebrew word for "tonight" (לילה, laylah) indicates the cover of darkness, which was likely chosen to avoid detection. This reflects the strategic and covert nature of their mission. The night often symbolizes a time of uncertainty and danger, yet it is also a time when God's providence can be at work unseen.

to spy out the land
The purpose of the spies' mission is clearly stated: to gather intelligence about the land. The Hebrew verb "לרגל" (laregel) means "to spy" or "to scout," indicating a reconnaissance mission. This action is part of a larger divine strategy to take possession of the Promised Land. The act of spying underscores the need for wisdom, discernment, and preparation in fulfilling God's promises. It also highlights the tension between human effort and divine intervention in the unfolding of God's plan for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King of Jericho
The ruler of the city of Jericho, a significant Canaanite city. His role is crucial as he receives the report about the Israelite spies.

2. Men of Israel
These are the spies sent by Joshua to scout the land, particularly Jericho, as part of Israel's strategy to conquer the Promised Land.

3. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, known for its strong walls. It represents the first major obstacle for the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan.

4. Spying Mission
The event where the Israelite spies enter Jericho to gather intelligence, which is a strategic move in the broader context of Israel's military campaign.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
The report reaching the king of Jericho demonstrates God's control over the unfolding events, even in enemy territory.

The Importance of Obedience and Strategy
The spies' mission underscores the need for strategic planning and obedience to God's directives in achieving His purposes.

Faith and Risk
The spies' willingness to enter enemy territory reflects a faith that takes risks for the sake of God's promises.

God's Use of Unlikely Individuals
Rahab, a resident of Jericho, becomes a key figure in the account, illustrating how God can use unexpected people to fulfill His plans.

The Role of Fear and Perception
The king's reaction to the spies' presence shows how fear and perception can influence decisions and actions, both positively and negatively.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the report to the king of Jericho illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty in the book of Joshua?

2. In what ways does the mission of the spies in Joshua 2 compare and contrast with the earlier spying mission in Numbers 13-14?

3. How can we apply the principle of strategic planning and obedience in our personal lives and spiritual journeys?

4. What lessons can we learn from the faith and risk-taking of the Israelite spies, and how can this be applied to modern-day challenges?

5. How does the account of Rahab and the spies encourage us to see the potential for God to use unlikely individuals in His plans?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 13-14
The earlier mission of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land, highlighting the continuity and change in Israel's approach to conquest.

Hebrews 11:31
Rahab's faith is commended, showing the impact of the spies' mission on individuals within Jericho.

James 2:25
Rahab's actions are cited as an example of faith demonstrated through works, connecting to the account of the spies.