The King of Jericho's inquiry is a significant event recorded in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 2. This episode occurs during the Israelites' preparation to enter the Promised Land, under the leadership of Joshua, following the death of Moses. The city of Jericho, a fortified city in the Jordan Valley, represents the first major obstacle in the Israelites' conquest of Canaan.

Biblical Context

In Joshua 2:1, Joshua sends two spies from Shittim to "go, view the land, especially Jericho." The spies enter Jericho and lodge at the house of Rahab, a woman identified as a prostitute. This strategic move allows them to gather intelligence on the city's defenses and the morale of its inhabitants.

The Inquiry

The presence of the Israelite spies does not go unnoticed. Joshua 2:2-3 states, "And it was reported to the king of Jericho: 'Behold, some men from the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land.' So the king of Jericho sent word to Rahab, saying, 'Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, for they have come to spy out the whole land.'"

The king's inquiry reflects the heightened state of alert and fear among the Canaanites regarding the advancing Israelites. The king's demand for Rahab to surrender the spies underscores the perceived threat that the Israelites posed to Jericho and its inhabitants.

Rahab's Response

Rahab's response to the king's inquiry is pivotal. Instead of complying with the king's command, she hides the spies and misleads the king's messengers. Joshua 2:4-5 records her actions: "But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. So she said, 'Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from. At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, they left. I do not know which way they went. Pursue them quickly, for you may overtake them.'"

Rahab's decision to protect the spies is a demonstration of her faith in the God of Israel, as she later confesses her belief in the Lord's power and the inevitability of Israel's victory (Joshua 2:9-11). Her actions not only save the spies but also secure her and her family's safety when Jericho falls.

Theological Significance

The king of Jericho's inquiry and Rahab's subsequent actions highlight several theological themes. First, it underscores the sovereignty of God in orchestrating the events leading to the conquest of Canaan. Despite the king's efforts to thwart the spies, God's plan for Israel's victory remains unchallenged.

Second, the narrative illustrates the concept of divine providence and protection. The spies' successful evasion of capture and Rahab's protection are seen as evidence of God's guiding hand.

Lastly, Rahab's faith and her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5) serve as a testament to God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan. Her account is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and the mercy extended to those who trust in the Lord.

Historical and Cultural Context

Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, was strategically located near the Jordan River. Its formidable walls and defenses made it a significant military target. The king of Jericho, though unnamed in the biblical text, would have been a local ruler responsible for the city's defense and governance.

The Canaanite culture, characterized by polytheism and practices contrary to the worship of Yahweh, was marked for judgment by God. The Israelites' conquest of Canaan, beginning with Jericho, was both a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham and a divine judgment on the Canaanite nations.

In summary, the king of Jericho's inquiry is a critical moment in the biblical narrative, setting the stage for the miraculous fall of Jericho and demonstrating the faithfulness of God to His promises.