JOSHUA 2

RAHAB PROTECTS THE ISRAELITE SPIES IN JERICHO

Joshua sends spies into the land of Canaan, specifically to see the city of Jericho. Previously, Joshua was sent as a spy and was one of two Israelites who had faith in God’s plan for the Promised Land (Numbers 13-14).

While the spies are in Jericho, they are met by a Canaanite prostitute named Rahab. Rahab heard of what God had done for the Israelites and professed her faith in God.

In order to protect the Israelite spies, Rahab lies to the Canaanite offices and hides the spies on her roof. Rahab asks the spies for protection, knowing that the Israelites will soon come to take over the land of Canaan. Because of her faithfulness to God and the Israelites, the spies promise to spare Rahab and her family. Rahab agrees to tie a scarlet cord from in her window so that her home is recognizable to the Israelites.

The spies return to Joshua with good news and a hopeful spirit, trusting that God will give the land over to the Israelites.