◄ Joshua 2 ►
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Rahab Welcomes the Spies (Hebrews 11:30–31) 1Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim,a saying, “Go, inspect the land, especially Jericho.” So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there. 2And it was reported to the king of Jericho: “Behold, some men of Israel have come here tonight to spy out the land.” 3So the king of Jericho sent to Rahab and said, “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, for they have come to spy out the whole land.” 4But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. So she said, “Yes, the men did come to me, but I did not know where they had come from. 5At dusk, when the gate was about to close, the men went out, and I do not know which way they went. Pursue them quickly, and you may catch them!” 6(But Rahab had taken them up to the roof and hidden them among the stalks of flax that she had laid out there.) 7So the king’s men set out in pursuit of the spies along the road to the fords of the Jordan, and as soon as they had gone out, the gate was shut. The Promise to Rahab 8Before the spies lay down for the night, Rahab went up on the roof 9and said to them, “I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of you. 10For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Red Seab before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two kings of the Amorites across the Jordan, whom you devoted to destruction.c 11When we heard this, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in the heavens above and on the earth below. 12Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD that you will indeed show kindness to my family, because I showed kindness to you. Give me a sure sign 13that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and that you will deliver us from death.” 14“Our lives for your lives!” the men agreed. “If you do not report our mission, we will show you kindness and faithfulness when the LORD gives us the land.” 15Then Rahab let them down by a rope through the window, since the house where she lived was built into the wall of the city. 16“Go to the hill country,” she said, “so that your pursuers will not find you. Hide yourselves there for three days until they have returned; then go on your way.” 17The men said to her, “We will not be bound by this oath you made us swear 18unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and unless you have brought your father and mother and brothers and all your family into your house. 19If anyone goes out the door of your house into the street, his blood will be on his own head, and we will be innocent. But if a hand is laid on anyone with you in the house, his blood will be on our heads. 20And if you report our mission, we will be released from the oath you made us swear.” 21“Let it be as you say,” she replied, and she sent them away. And when they had gone, she tied the scarlet cord in the window. 22So the spies went out into the hill country and stayed there three days, until their pursuers had returned without finding them, having searched all along the road. 23Then the two men started back, came down from the hill country, and crossed the river. So they came to Joshua son of Nun and reported all that had happened to them. 24“The LORD has surely delivered the entire land into our hands,” they said to Joshua. “Indeed, all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of us.” Footnotes: 1 a Or Acacia Grove 10 b Or the Sea of Reeds 10 c Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 2 Summary Rahab Welcomes the Spies Verses 1–4 – Spies Enter and Rahab Shelters Them Joshua dispatches two men from Shittim to scout Jericho. They lodge with Rahab, a prostitute whose house is built into the city wall. When the king learns of their presence, he demands Rahab surrender them, but she hides the men on her roof beneath stalks of flax. Verses 5–7 – A Deceptive Diversion Rahab tells the officials the spies have already left at dusk, urging the pursuers to hurry after them. The city gates close behind the pursuers, while the spies remain safely concealed. Verses 8–14 – Rahab’s Confession and Covenant Before the spies sleep, Rahab declares her belief that “the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below” (v. 11). She recounts Jericho’s terror over Israel’s victories and asks for protection for her family. The spies swear an oath: her household will be spared if she keeps their mission secret. Verses 15–21 – Escape and the Scarlet Cord Rahab lowers the men through a window by rope and instructs them to hide in the hills for three days. They stipulate that a scarlet cord must hang from her window and all relatives must stay inside her house; only then will they be protected. Rahab agrees and ties the cord immediately. Verses 22–24 – Report to Joshua After three days the pursuers return to Jericho. The spies safely cross the Jordan, report to Joshua, and proclaim, “Surely the LORD has delivered the entire land into our hands” (v. 24). Joshua Chapter 2 focuses on the account of Rahab, a woman from Jericho who bravely aids the spies sent by Joshua. As the Israelites prepare to conquer the city, Rahab's faith in the God of Israel and her courage significantly influence the unfolding events, demonstrating that divine providence often works through unexpected channels. Historical Setting Jericho, the gateway to Canaan, sits near the Jordan River about five miles west of its current course. The Israelites have camped at Shittim on the plains of Moab (Numbers 25:1), awaiting God’s timing to cross. Sending two spies recalls Moses’ earlier reconnaissance (Numbers 13), but Joshua chooses only two trustworthy men, avoiding the discouraging majority report that once stalled Israel. Rahab: Her Identity and Faith • Occupation: The Hebrew term zônāh normally means prostitute. Some traditions soften it to “innkeeper,” yet the straightforward reading supports her life on society’s margins. • Faith: Rahab’s declaration (v. 11) mirrors the Shema’s truth of God’s singular rule (Deuteronomy 6:4). Hebrews 11:31 lists her among the faithful, and James 2:25 cites her works as evidence of living faith. • Lineage: Matthew 1:5 names Rahab as an ancestor of King David and Jesus, underscoring God’s grace to outsiders. Spies and Ancient Espionage Reconnaissance was common in the ancient Near East. Observing city defenses, water sources, and morale could turn battles without bloodshed. Rahab’s roof-top flax may indicate a seasonal harvest time, suggesting late spring—perfect for spies to blend in among traders processing flax for linen. The Scarlet Cord and Themes of Salvation • Visual Sign: Like the Passover blood on Israelite doorposts (Exodus 12:13), the scarlet cord marks out where judgment must pass over. • Color Symbolism: Scarlet, produced from the worm-like cochineal, often pictures sin (Isaiah 1:18) yet also cleansing when God intervenes. • Corporate Covering: Protection extends to anyone in Rahab’s house, foreshadowing household salvation scenes such as Acts 16:31. Moral Question: Rahab’s Lie Rahab’s false report troubles many readers. Scripture nowhere praises the lie itself; it commends her faith-driven action to protect God’s people. The narrative highlights God’s sovereignty—He works even through imperfect human choices, just as He used Joseph’s brothers’ betrayal for good (Genesis 50:20). Archaeological Notes on Jericho • Tell es-Sultan: The mound identified as ancient Jericho shows a heavily fortified Middle Bronze wall collapsed outward, leaving ramped debris—consistent with Joshua 6’s description and providing a plausible location for a house “built into the wall.” • Seasonal Floods: Jordan’s spring flooding (Joshua 3:15) explains why the spies’ pursuers could not cross easily, forcing them westward while the spies hid in the crags. Foreshadowing the Gospel • Rahab, a Gentile sinner rescued by faith, previews the inclusion of the nations (Acts 10). • The scarlet cord anticipates Christ’s blood securing deliverance (1 Peter 1:18-19). • Three-day waiting period echoes Jesus’ resurrection timeline, moving from hiding to triumphant report. Connections to Other Scriptures • Courage: Joshua 1:9’s “Be strong and courageous” materializes here as the spies stake their lives on God’s promise. • Divine Fear: Terror among Canaanites fulfills Exodus 23:27. • Covenant Kindness: The Hebrew hesed (v. 12) surfaces again when Joshua spares Rahab (Joshua 6:25) and when David shows kindness to Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9). Lessons for Today • God delights to save unexpected people. • Genuine faith produces risk-taking obedience. • Marking our homes with allegiance to the Lord still sets us apart in a fearful world. • Promises should be honored; the spies’ oath shows integrity even toward a former enemy. Connections to Additional Scriptures Hebrews 11:31 By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient. James 2:25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute justified by her actions when she welcomed the spies and sent them off on another route? Matthew 1:5 Rahab is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her inclusion in God's redemptive plan. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty and Plan Despite Rahab's background, God uses her to protect the Israelite spies, demonstrating His ability to work through anyone to accomplish His purposes. But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them (Joshua 2:4). Faith in Action Rahab's faith is evident in her actions. She not only hides the spies but also expresses her belief in the God of Israel. I know that the LORD has given you this land (Joshua 2:9). Covenant and Promise Rahab's agreement with the spies highlights the importance of covenant and trust. Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family (Joshua 2:12). Redemption and Inclusion Rahab's account foreshadows the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan. Her faith leads to her being grafted into the lineage of Christ (Matthew 1:5). Practical Applications Trust in God's Plan Like Rahab, we should trust that God can use us, regardless of our past, to fulfill His purposes. Act on Your Faith Rahab's account encourages us to put our faith into action, even when it involves risk. Seek God's Mercy Rahab's plea for mercy reminds us to seek God's grace and protection for ourselves and our loved ones. Embrace Redemption No matter our background, God offers redemption and a place in His family through faith. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the leader of the Israelites after Moses. He sends two spies to scout the land of Jericho. The Berean Standard Bible begins the chapter with, "Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim" (Joshua 2:1). 2. Two Spies These are the unnamed Israelite men sent by Joshua to explore Jericho. They are central to the narrative as they interact with Rahab and gather intelligence on the city. The Hebrew term for spies, "רָגַל" (ragal), implies their role as scouts or explorers. 3. Rahab Rahab is a Canaanite woman who lives in Jericho. She is described as a prostitute and plays a crucial role by hiding the spies and helping them escape. Her faith and actions are significant, as noted in Joshua 2:4, "But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them." 4. King of Jericho The king is the ruler of Jericho who learns about the presence of the Israelite spies and sends orders to Rahab to bring them out. His role is mentioned in Joshua 2:2-3, "So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: 'Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, for they have come to spy out the whole land.'" Places 1. Shittim This is the location where the Israelites were encamped before Joshua sent the spies to Jericho. The Hebrew root for Shittim is "שִׁטִּים" (Shittim), which refers to the acacia trees that were abundant in the area. It is significant as the last encampment of the Israelites before crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. 2. Jericho This is the city to which Joshua sent the two spies. Jericho is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and is located near the Jordan River. In Hebrew, Jericho is "יְרִיחוֹ" (Yeriho), which may be related to the word for "fragrance" or "moon." It is significant as the first city conquered by the Israelites in their campaign to take the Promised Land. 3. The House of Rahab While not a separate geographical location, Rahab's house is a significant place within Jericho. It is described as being on the city wall, which allowed the spies to escape. Rahab's house becomes a place of refuge and a pivotal location in the narrative, highlighting her role in aiding the Israelite spies. 4. The Hill Country After leaving Rahab's house, the spies hide in the hill country for three days to avoid capture. The Hebrew term for hill country is "הָהָר" (ha-har), which refers to the mountainous regions surrounding Jericho. This area provided natural cover and protection for the spies during their escape. Events 1. Joshua Sends Spies to Jericho Joshua, the son of Nun, secretly sends two spies from Shittim to scout the land, especially Jericho. This action is strategic for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The Hebrew root for "spy" (רָגַל, ragal) implies a careful and secretive exploration. 2. Spies Lodge with Rahab The spies enter Jericho and lodge at the house of Rahab, a prostitute. This choice of lodging is significant as it provides a cover for their mission. Rahab's house is located on the city wall, which later becomes crucial for their escape. 3. King of Jericho Seeks the Spies The king of Jericho is informed of the spies' presence and sends orders to Rahab to bring them out. This reflects the heightened alertness and fear among the Canaanites regarding the Israelites. 4. Rahab Hides the Spies Rahab hides the spies under stalks of flax on her roof and misleads the king's men by saying the spies had already left the city. Her actions demonstrate her faith and allegiance to the God of Israel. 5. Rahab's Declaration of Faith Rahab acknowledges the LORD's sovereignty, saying, "I know that the LORD has given you this land" (Joshua 2:9). Her declaration is a pivotal moment, showing her belief in the God of Israel over the gods of Canaan. 6. Rahab's Request for Kindness Rahab requests that the spies show kindness to her family in return for her help, using the Hebrew word חֶסֶד (chesed), which denotes loyal love or covenant faithfulness. 7. The Spies' Oath to Rahab The spies agree to spare Rahab and her family, binding themselves with an oath. They instruct her to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign, reminiscent of the Passover blood on the doorposts. 8. Spies Escape to the Hills Rahab helps the spies escape by letting them down through a window with a rope. They flee to the hills and hide for three days, ensuring their safety from the king's men. 9. Spies Report to Joshua After safely returning, the spies report to Joshua, affirming that "the LORD has surely delivered the entire land into our hands" (Joshua 2:24). Their report strengthens the resolve of the Israelites to proceed with their conquest. Lessons from Joshua 2 1. Faith Can Be Found in Unexpected Places In Joshua 2, we meet Rahab, a Canaanite woman living in Jericho. Despite her background, she demonstrates remarkable faith in the God of Israel. This reminds us that faith can spring up in the most unexpected places and people. As Rahab declares, "For the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below" (Joshua 2:11). Her faith not only saves her but also her entire family, showing that God’s grace is available to all who believe. 2. Courage is Key to Faithful Living Rahab's actions required immense courage. By hiding the Israelite spies, she risked her life. Her bravery teaches us that living out our faith often requires boldness. As we face challenges, we can draw strength from her example, knowing that "the LORD is with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). 3. God Uses Ordinary People for Extraordinary Purposes Rahab was an ordinary woman with a less-than-perfect past, yet God used her to fulfill His divine plan. This encourages us to remember that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to accomplish His purposes. As Paul later writes, "God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong" (1 Corinthians 1:27). 4. The Importance of Keeping Promises The spies made a promise to Rahab to spare her and her family, and they kept it. This highlights the importance of integrity and keeping our word. As Jesus taught, "Let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'" (Matthew 5:37). Our faithfulness in small things reflects our commitment to God. 5. God’s Sovereignty Over All Nations Rahab’s acknowledgment of God’s power over heaven and earth (Joshua 2:11) underscores His sovereignty. No matter the nation or ruler, God’s plans will prevail. This reassures us that, despite worldly chaos, God remains in control, guiding history according to His will. 6. Salvation is Available to All Who Believe Rahab’s story is a powerful testament to the inclusivity of God’s salvation. Her faith led to her deliverance, illustrating that salvation is not limited by ethnicity or past mistakes. As Paul affirms, "There is neither Jew nor Greek... for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). 7. The Power of a Testimony Rahab’s testimony about the fear of the LORD spreading through Jericho (Joshua 2:9-11) shows the impact of a personal witness. Our testimonies can inspire faith in others and demonstrate God’s power and love. Never underestimate the influence of sharing your story. 8. God’s Protection in Times of Danger The spies were in a perilous situation, yet God protected them through Rahab’s actions. This reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, "a very present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). We can trust Him to protect us in our times of need. 9. The Role of Obedience in God’s Plan Rahab’s obedience to the spies’ instructions was crucial for her salvation. This teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God. As James writes, "Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (James 2:17). Our actions should reflect our faith. 10. Redemption and New Beginnings Rahab’s story is one of redemption and new beginnings. Despite her past, she becomes part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). This illustrates that with God, our past does not define our future. In Christ, we are a new creation, and His plans for us are filled with hope and purpose. Topics 1. Spies Sent to Jericho Joshua sends two men as spies to scout the land, especially Jericho. This mission is crucial for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for "spy" (רָגַל, ragal) implies a careful and secretive exploration. 2. Rahab's Shelter The spies lodge at the house of Rahab, a prostitute. Rahab's house is strategically located on the city wall, which plays a significant role in the narrative. Her actions demonstrate a pivotal moment of faith and protection for the spies. 3. King of Jericho's Inquiry The king of Jericho learns of the spies' presence and sends orders to Rahab to bring them out. This highlights the tension and danger the spies face in enemy territory. 4. Rahab's Deception and Faith Rahab hides the spies and deceives the king's men, claiming the spies had already left. Her actions are motivated by her belief in the God of Israel, as she acknowledges His power and the fear He has instilled in the land. The Hebrew root for "faith" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) underscores her trust and allegiance to God. 5. Rahab's Confession of Faith Rahab confesses her belief in the LORD, saying, "For the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below" (Joshua 2:11). This confession is significant as it marks her recognition of God's sovereignty. 6. The Oath of Protection Rahab requests protection for her family in exchange for her help. The spies agree, binding themselves with an oath. The Hebrew word for "oath" (שְׁבוּעָה, shevuah) indicates a solemn promise, emphasizing the seriousness of their agreement. 7. The Scarlet Cord Rahab is instructed to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for her protection. The scarlet cord symbolizes safety and redemption, reminiscent of the Passover blood in Exodus. 8. Escape and Return The spies escape to the hills and later return to Joshua, reporting all that had happened. Their successful mission and the information they bring back are crucial for Israel's strategy in conquering Jericho. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Guidance The theme of divine providence is evident as God orchestrates events for the Israelites' benefit. Rahab's encounter with the spies is not coincidental but part of God's plan. The Hebrew root for "providence" (השגחה, hashgachah) implies God's active involvement in the world. Joshua 2:1 states, "Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim, saying, 'Go, view the land, especially Jericho.'" 2. Faith and Obedience Rahab's faith in the God of Israel leads her to protect the spies, demonstrating her belief in God's power and promises. Her actions reflect the Hebrew concept of "emunah" (אמונה), meaning faithfulness or steadfastness. Joshua 2:11 highlights her faith: "When we heard this, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below." 3. Redemption and Inclusion Rahab, a Canaanite and a prostitute, is redeemed and included in the lineage of Israel due to her faith and actions. This theme underscores the inclusivity of God's grace. The Hebrew word "ga'al" (גאל), meaning to redeem, is relevant here. Joshua 2:12-13 shows Rahab seeking mercy: "Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you." 4. Covenant and Promise The spies make a covenant with Rahab, promising her safety in exchange for her help. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "berit" (ברית), meaning covenant. Joshua 2:14 records this agreement: "Our lives for your lives! the men assured her. 'If you do not report our mission, we will show you kindness and faithfulness when the LORD gives us the land.'" 5. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The fear of the LORD among the inhabitants of Jericho demonstrates God's sovereignty over all nations. The Hebrew root "mashal" (משל), meaning to rule or have dominion, is relevant. Joshua 2:9 captures this fear: "I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, so that all who live in the land are melting in fear of you." 6. Protection and Deliverance The theme of protection is evident as God ensures the spies' safe return. Rahab's house, marked by a scarlet cord, symbolizes deliverance. The Hebrew word "yasha" (ישע), meaning to save or deliver, is pertinent. Joshua 2:18-19 describes the sign of protection: "Unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and unless you have brought your father and mother, your brothers, and all your family into your house." Prayer Points Thank God for His Sovereignty Praise God for His ability to use anyone for His purposes, regardless of their past. Pray for Faith and Courage Ask God to strengthen your faith and give you the courage to act on it, even in challenging situations. Seek God's Mercy and Protection Pray for God's mercy and protection over you and your family, just as Rahab did. Embrace Redemption Thank God for the redemption offered through Jesus Christ and pray for the inclusion of all people in His family. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do archaeological findings suggesting Jericho was uninhabited at the time reconcile with Joshua 2:1? 2. Why does God seemingly reward Rahab’s lie in Joshua 2:4–7 despite prohibitions against bearing false witness elsewhere? 3. How could two foreign spies move so freely in Jericho without immediate suspicion, as described in Joshua 2:2–3? 4. If Jericho’s walls had already crumbled before Joshua’s era, how does Joshua 2:15 align with historical timelines? 5. Why does the New Testament (James 2:25) commend Rahab’s actions when they involved deception and potential betrayal of her city? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do you perceive Rahab's character, given her profession and actions in Joshua 2? 2. How does Rahab's faith compare to your own? 3. Rahab lied to protect the spies. Is it justifiable to lie in certain situations? Why or why not? 4. How does Rahab's understanding of God influence her decisions? 5. How can you apply Rahab's courage in your life when facing difficult situations? 6. Discuss the significance of the scarlet cord in the story. What does it symbolize? 7. How does this chapter illustrate God's mercy and redemption? 8. What role does loyalty play in the narrative of Joshua 2? 9. How do the actions of the spies reflect their trust in God? 10. How can Rahab’s act of loyalty and faith be a model in your relationships? 11. Can you identify a moment in your life when you took a risk for your faith, like Rahab did? 12. How can this story of divine providence encourage you in times of uncertainty? 13. How does the theme of redemption resonate in your personal life? 14. How did Rahab’s faith impact her future and her family’s future? 15. How do you see God’s hand at work in the strategy of conquering Jericho? 16. How might this story inspire you to act with courage in your current circumstances? 17. Discuss how Rahab's story sheds light on the nature of true faith. 18. How can the actions of Rahab serve as a lesson for you when facing fear? 19. How would you handle a situation where you had to choose between following orders and doing what you believe is right? 20. What can you learn from Rahab about living in a society that does not acknowledge your faith? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions