The scarlet cord is a significant symbol found in the biblical narrative, particularly in the account of Rahab in the Book of Joshua. This symbol is rich with meaning and has been interpreted in various ways throughout Christian theology and tradition.

Biblical Account

The primary reference to the scarlet cord is found in Joshua 2. Rahab, a prostitute living in Jericho, provides shelter to two Israelite spies sent by Joshua to scout the city. Aware of the impending conquest by the Israelites, Rahab acknowledges the power of the God of Israel and seeks protection for herself and her family. In return for her assistance, the spies instruct her to tie a scarlet cord in the window of her house, which is built into the city wall, as a sign for the Israelite army to spare her and her household during the attack on Jericho.

Joshua 2:18-21 states: "Behold, when we enter the land, you must tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and you must bring your father and mother, your brothers, and all your father’s household into your home. If anyone goes out the door of your house, his blood will be on his own head, and we will be innocent. But if a hand is laid on anyone who is with you in the house, his blood will be on our heads. And if you report our mission, we will be released from the oath you made us swear.” “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."

Symbolism and Interpretation

The scarlet cord is often seen as a symbol of redemption and salvation. Its color, scarlet, is associated with blood, which in Christian theology is a powerful symbol of atonement and sacrifice. The cord's role in the account of Rahab prefigures the concept of salvation through faith and the protective power of God's covenant.

Rahab's faith in the God of Israel and her actions in accordance with the spies' instructions are seen as a demonstration of her belief and trust in God's promises. Hebrews 11:31 commends her faith: "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies in peace, did not perish with those who were disobedient."

Typology and Christological Significance

In Christian typology, the scarlet cord is often viewed as a foreshadowing of the blood of Christ, which offers salvation to all who believe. Just as the scarlet cord marked Rahab's house for deliverance, the blood of Christ marks believers for eternal salvation. This typological interpretation underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Rahab's Legacy

Rahab's account and the scarlet cord also highlight the inclusivity of God's grace. Despite her background as a Canaanite and a prostitute, Rahab is grafted into the lineage of Israel and becomes an ancestor of Jesus Christ, as noted in Matthew 1:5 : "Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, Obed the father of Jesse."

The scarlet cord thus serves as a powerful reminder of God's mercy and the transformative power of faith, illustrating that redemption is available to all, regardless of past sins or social status, through faith in God's promises.