What does Joshua 2:10 mean?

For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. Joshua 2:10

Explanation

Joshua 2:10 refers to a conversation between Rahab, a resident of Jericho, and two Israelite spies. Rahab recounts hearing of the miraculous events that occurred as the Israelites, led by Moses, escaped from Egypt and traveled to the Promised Land. Two specific acts of divine intervention are mentioned: the parting of the Red Sea and the defeat of the Amorite kings, Sihon and Og.

The literal meaning of the verse is clear; it recounts historical events as understood by the people of the time. On a deeper level, it shows the spread of the reputation of the Israelites and their God, Yahweh, among the surrounding nations. Rahab’s declaration is a testament to the fear and respect that these deeds have instilled in the inhabitants of Canaan.

Historical Context

The verse is set during the early stages of the Israelite conquest of Canaan under Joshua’s leadership, which would place it around the late second millennium BCE. It comes from the Book of Joshua in the Old Testament, which narrates the story of the Israelites entering and taking possession of the Promised Land following the Exodus from Egypt.

During this period, the Near Eastern region was a tapestry of various city-states and small kingdoms. The historical accuracy of the events is subject to debate among scholars, but within the context of the Bible, these events are pivotal acts of God demonstrating his power and favor toward the Israelites.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Joshua 2:10 emphasizes God’s omnipotence and faithfulness. He is seen as the divine warrior who fights for His chosen people, fulfilling the promises made to their ancestors. The destruction of the enemies of Israel is interpreted as divine judgment upon those who stand against God’s will.

Different traditions interpret these events with varying emphases. For example, Christian perspectives might see types and shadows of Christ’s redeeming work in the acts of salvation and judgment, while Jewish interpretations might focus on the fulfillment of the covenant promises and God’s role as a protector of Israel.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages faith in God’s ability to act on behalf of His people and the significance of witness and testimony. It teaches that stories of God’s actions in the past can inspire faith in others and have a practical impact on current events. For believers today, it suggests that remembering and sharing their experiences of God’s faithfulness can have a profound effect on those who hear them.

Cross-References

• Exodus 14:21-22: “And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided.”
• Numbers 21:24: “And Israel smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land from Arnon unto Jabbok, even unto the children of Ammon: for the border of the children of Ammon was strong.”
• Deuteronomy 3:3-4: “So the LORD our God delivered into our hands Og also, the king of Bashan, and all his people: and we smote him until none was left to him remaining.”

Language Study

The key words in this verse include:

• “LORD” (YHWH): The divine name of God, indicating His eternal presence and covenant faithfulness.
• “dried up”: This phrase is used to describe the parting of the Red Sea, emphasizing the removal of an insurmountable obstacle.
• “utterly destroyed”: This term translates the Hebrew word “haram,” which refers to a total destruction often associated with divine judgment.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparative mythology yields parallels between the parting of the Red Sea and other mythical sea crossings or divine interventions in battle. Ancient Near Eastern religions are rife with stories of gods performing mighty feats that demonstrate their power.

However, within the context of Hebrew monotheism, these acts are unique in that they are performed by the one true God and are tied to historical and covenantal promises, rather than the capricious acts of a pantheon.

Scientific Perspectives

The drying up of the Red Sea has often been subject to attempts at scientific explanation, with theories ranging from natural tidal phenomena to seismic events. The defeat of Sihon and Og, however, is generally viewed as a military event, the details of which are not addressed in scientific literature.

However, it’s important to note that the primary aim of the biblical narrative is not to provide scientific explanations but to convey religious truths and the historical experiences of a people.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars offer a variety of interpretations of Joshua 2:10:

• Some suggest it demonstrates Rahab’s faith in the God of Israel, which would later lead to her own salvation and inclusion in the Israelite community.
• Others point out the strategic importance of her statement, which serves to demoralize the enemy and assure the spies of potential success in their mission.
• Conservative commentators often accept the historical veracity of the events as divine acts, while more critical scholars may interpret them as theological constructs or legendary embellishments of a historical core.

Regardless of perspective, the verse remains a significant component of the narrative unfolding in the Book of Joshua.