Joshua 2:1
And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Jericho was a heavily fortified city controlling the Jordan River crossing into Canaan. Archaeological excavations reveal massive defensive walls and a prosperous Late Bronze Age city. The city's strategic importance made it the logical first target for conquest. Spying missions were standard ancient Near Eastern military practice before assaults on fortified cities. Rahab's profession as a prostitute, while morally condemned, positioned her to hear news from travelers and merchants. Ancient Near Eastern cities typically had red-light districts near gates or walls where commerce and immoral activity intersected. The narrative makes no attempt to justify or minimize Rahab's sin, but demonstrates God's grace in saving sinners who turn to Him in faith. This account occurred approximately 40 years after the failed spying mission of Numbers 13-14, showing God's patience in giving Israel a second chance to enter the land in faith.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's use of Rahab—a Gentile prostitute—challenge our assumptions about who God saves and includes in His redemptive purposes?
- What does Joshua's wisdom in learning from Moses' mistake teach about the importance of studying redemptive history?
- How do you respond when God works through unlikely people or circumstances to accomplish His purposes?
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Analysis & Commentary
Joshua's decision to send spies parallels Moses' earlier reconnaissance (Numbers 13), but with key differences. This mission involved only two men (versus twelve) sent 'secretly' (cheresh, חֶרֶשׁ), avoiding the public knowledge that led to Israel's previous failure. Joshua learned from history—the previous generation's unbelief after hearing the spies' fearful report led to forty years of wilderness wandering. The spies' arrival at Rahab's house appears providential rather than coincidental. The Hebrew zonah (זוֹנָה, 'harlot') indicates she was a prostitute, yet God sovereignly directed the spies to the one Canaanite who would demonstrate faith. Rahab's house on the city wall (verse 15) provided strategic location for gathering intelligence and escaping detection. God's grace in using a Gentile prostitute to advance His redemptive purposes demonstrates that salvation depends on faith rather than moral merit or ethnic identity. Rahab's inclusion in Christ's genealogy (Matthew 1:5) and commendation in Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25 confirms her genuine conversion and faith.