Joshua 6:17

Now the city and everything in it must be devoted to the LORD for destruction. Only Rahab the prostitute and all those with her in her house will live, because she hid the spies we sent.

Study Bible

Now the city
The Hebrew word for "city" is "עִיר" (ir), which refers to a fortified settlement. Jericho, the city in question, was one of the oldest and most significant cities in the ancient Near East. Archaeological evidence suggests that Jericho had massive walls, which made it a formidable obstacle for the Israelites. The mention of the city sets the stage for a divine intervention that would demonstrate God's power and faithfulness to His promises.

and all that is in it
This phrase emphasizes the totality of the destruction that was to come upon Jericho. The Hebrew word "כֹּל" (kol) means "all" or "everything," indicating that nothing within the city was to be spared. This reflects the concept of "herem," a term used for things devoted to God, often through destruction, as a form of divine judgment and purification.

shall be devoted to the LORD
The Hebrew term "חֵרֶם" (cherem) is used here, meaning something that is set apart for God, often through destruction. This concept underscores the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God. The destruction of Jericho was not merely a military conquest but a spiritual act of obedience and dedication to God, who demanded purity and holiness from His people.

for destruction
The phrase "for destruction" highlights the complete and irrevocable nature of the judgment upon Jericho. This was not just a physical destruction but a spiritual cleansing, removing the influence of paganism and idolatry from the land that God had promised to the Israelites. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of aligning with God's will.

Only Rahab the prostitute
Rahab's inclusion is significant, as her account is one of redemption and faith. Despite her past, Rahab's actions demonstrated her belief in the God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "prostitute" is "זוֹנָה" (zonah), which acknowledges her former life but also highlights the transformative power of faith. Rahab's faith and actions led to her being spared, illustrating God's grace and mercy.

and all who are with her in her house
This phrase underscores the importance of community and the protection that comes from being aligned with God's people. Rahab's family was saved because of her faith and her decision to align with the God of Israel. It serves as a powerful testament to the impact one person's faith can have on others.

shall live
The promise of life for Rahab and her family is a direct result of her faith and obedience. The Hebrew word "חָיָה" (chayah) means "to live" or "to be preserved," signifying not just physical survival but a new beginning. Rahab's account is a foreshadowing of the salvation available to all who place their faith in God.

because she hid the spies we sent
Rahab's actions in hiding the spies were a demonstration of her faith and allegiance to the God of Israel. The Hebrew word "סָתַר" (satar) means "to hide" or "to conceal," indicating her active role in God's plan. Her faith was not passive but involved risk and courage, leading to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as noted in the genealogy in Matthew 1. This highlights the theme of redemption and the far-reaching impact of faith and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, the first city conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership. It represents the beginning of the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land.

2. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in the conquest of Jericho.

3. Rahab
A prostitute living in Jericho who hid the Israelite spies. Her faith and actions led to her and her family's salvation during the city's destruction.

4. The Spies
Israelite men sent by Joshua to scout Jericho. Their mission was crucial in the strategic planning for the city's conquest.

5. The LORD
The God of Israel, who commanded the destruction of Jericho and the sparing of Rahab, demonstrating His justice and mercy.

Teaching Points

Devotion to God’s Commands
The destruction of Jericho illustrates the importance of complete obedience to God's instructions, even when they are difficult or seem harsh.

Faith and Action
Rahab's account demonstrates that true faith is accompanied by actions. Her faith led her to protect the spies, resulting in her salvation.

God’s Mercy and Redemption
Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus highlights God's mercy and His willingness to redeem those who turn to Him, regardless of their past.

The Consequences of Sin
The destruction of Jericho serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the consequences of living in opposition to God.

The Role of Faith in Salvation
Rahab's faith was instrumental in her salvation, pointing to the New Testament teaching that faith is essential for salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jericho's destruction challenge our understanding of God's justice and mercy?

2. In what ways does Rahab's faith inspire you to act courageously in your own life?

3. How can we apply the principle of being "devoted to the LORD" in our daily decisions and actions?

4. What does Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus teach us about God's plan for redemption?

5. How can the account of Jericho and Rahab encourage us to trust in God's promises, even when they seem impossible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:31
This verse highlights Rahab's faith, which led to her being spared. It connects her actions to the broader theme of faith in the New Testament.

James 2:25
This passage emphasizes Rahab's works as evidence of her faith, illustrating the relationship between faith and actions.

Deuteronomy 20:16-18
Provides context for the command to devote certain cities to destruction, emphasizing the need to remove influences that could lead Israel away from God.

Matthew 1:5
Rahab is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, showing God's redemptive plan and inclusion of Gentiles in His covenant.