Rahab Hides the Israelite Spies

Joshua secretly sends two spies across the Jordan to inspect Jericho. They enter the house of Rahab, a woman whose home is built into the city wall.

The king of Jericho learns that Israelite men have entered the city and sends officials to Rahab’s house. Rahab has hidden the men on her roof beneath stalks of flax.

She tells the king’s messengers that the men have already left and suggests pursuing them quickly. Once the city gate closes behind the search party, Rahab goes up to speak with the spies.

Rahab tells them that the people of Jericho have heard what Israel’s God did at the Red Sea and in victories east of the Jordan. Fear has fallen on the city.

Her confession goes further than fear. She declares that the LORD is God in heaven above and on earth below.

Rahab asks the spies to show kindness to her family when Israel attacks. They agree, provided she keeps their mission secret and gathers her household inside her home.

A scarlet cord placed in the window will mark the house. Rahab then lowers the spies by a rope through the window because her home is part of the city wall.

The spies return to Joshua convinced that the land has been given into Israel’s hands. When Jericho later falls, Rahab and her household are brought out safely.

Her story begins on the enemy side of Jericho’s wall but ends with her incorporated into Israel, and later biblical writers remember her as an example of faith expressed through decisive action.