Joshua sends two spies from Shittim to secretly explore the land, especially Jericho. They enter the house of Rahab, a prostitute, who hides them from the king's men.
Theological significance
This event demonstrates God's providence and the importance of faith and obedience. Rahab's actions show her faith in the God of Israel, which leads to her and her family's salvation.
In the broader story
The sending of spies echoes the earlier sending of spies by Moses (Numbers 13), but with a more faithful outcome. Rahab's faith and inclusion in Israel's story foreshadow the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan.
Rahab acknowledges the power of the God of Israel and makes a covenant with the spies, asking for protection for her family in exchange for her help.
Theological significance
Rahab's confession of faith in the God of Israel highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the power of His reputation among the nations. Her covenant with the spies signifies the importance of faith and the grace extended to those who believe.
In the broader story
Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) underscores the theme of God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan.
Rahab helps the spies escape by letting them down through a window with a scarlet cord. The spies return to Joshua, reporting that the Lord has given the land into their hands.
Theological significance
The scarlet cord symbolizes salvation and protection, reminiscent of the Passover blood. The spies' report confirms God's promise and encourages Israel to trust in His deliverance.
In the broader story
The escape and report reinforce the theme of God's faithfulness and the certainty of His promises, paralleling the deliverance of Israel from Egypt and foreshadowing the ultimate deliverance through Christ.
In the order the chapter tells them. The corpus records sequence, not dates — biblical chronology is contested, and this does not take a position on it.