Topical Bible: Treason of Rahab Against Jericho

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Introduction:
The account of Rahab's actions in the city of Jericho is a significant narrative found in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 2. Rahab, a Canaanite woman, is noted for her pivotal role in aiding the Israelite spies, an act that is often described as treason against her own city. Her account is a profound example of faith and the sovereignty of God in the unfolding of His divine plan.

Historical Context:
Jericho was a fortified city in the land of Canaan, strategically located near the Jordan River. As the Israelites, led by Joshua, prepared to enter the Promised Land, Jericho represented a formidable obstacle. The city's destruction was crucial for the Israelites to establish a foothold in Canaan.

Rahab's Background:
Rahab is introduced as a harlot living in Jericho. Despite her profession, she is portrayed as a woman of remarkable faith and discernment. Her house was situated on the city wall, providing her with a unique vantage point and opportunity to interact with travelers and gather information.

The Spies' Mission:
Joshua sent two spies to scout the land, especially Jericho. Upon entering the city, they lodged at Rahab's house. The king of Jericho, aware of their presence, demanded that Rahab surrender the spies. However, Rahab chose to hide them, an act of defiance against her king and city.

Rahab's Declaration of Faith:
Rahab's decision to protect the spies was driven by her recognition of the God of Israel's power. She declared to the spies, "I know that the LORD has given you this land and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, so that all who dwell in the land are melting in fear of you" (Joshua 2:9). Her acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and her plea for mercy for her family demonstrate her faith and understanding of God's impending judgment on Jericho.

The Scarlet Cord:
In exchange for her protection, the spies promised Rahab safety for her and her family. They instructed her to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for the Israelites to spare her household during the conquest. This scarlet cord is often seen as a symbol of redemption and protection, foreshadowing the redemptive work of Christ.

Outcome and Legacy:
Rahab's actions resulted in the preservation of her family when Jericho fell. As recorded in Joshua 6:25, "But Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute, with her family and all who belonged to her, because she had hidden the men Joshua had sent as spies to Jericho, and she lives among the Israelites to this day" . Rahab's faith and courage earned her a place in the lineage of Jesus Christ, as noted in Matthew 1:5, and she is commended in the New Testament for her faith in Hebrews 11:31 and her works in James 2:25.

Theological Significance:
Rahab's account is a testament to God's grace and the power of faith. Her treason against Jericho, motivated by her belief in the God of Israel, highlights the theme of divine election and the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive plan. Her transformation from a Canaanite harlot to a revered ancestor of Christ underscores the transformative power of faith and God's ability to use unlikely individuals for His purposes.

Nave's Topical Index

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.
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Book 5 Footnotes
... observe, that I still call this woman Rahab, an innkeeper ... no law of God, nay, is
directly against it every ... cause, was the highest act of treason against God and ...
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