What does Joshua 2:17 mean?

And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear. Joshua 2:17

Explanation

The verse Joshua 2:17 is part of the narrative in the Book of Joshua where the Israelite spies, before the conquest of Jericho, are speaking to Rahab. Rahab, a prostitute living in Jericho, has agreed to hide the spies from the authorities in exchange for protection when the Israelites attack the city. The men, in this verse, are setting the terms of the agreement, making it clear that they will honor their promise to save her and her family as long as she meets the conditions they set forth. The “oath” referenced is the solemn promise they have made to Rahab in return for her services as an informant and protector.

Historical Context

This verse takes place during the Israelite’s conquest of Canaan under Joshua’s leadership, following the death of Moses. Historically, it would occur in the late Bronze Age (around the 13th century BCE), an era characterized by various city-states in the region. Jericho was an important and fortified city in Canaan, and the narrative describes its conquest as part of the broader campaign by the Israelites to claim the Promised Land as instructed by God.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this story and verse demonstrate the theme of God’s providence and the reward for those who aid His people. Rahab’s actions symbolize faithful obedience and her inclusion in the narrative underscores the idea that God’s mercy extends beyond ethnic and moral boundaries. Moreover, this story introduces the concept of the “scarlet cord,” which Rahab is instructed to use to mark her home, and which some theologians liken to the blood of the Passover lamb, symbolizing salvation and protection.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages individuals to keep their word and to take obligations seriously, especially when someone has put their trust in them. It also may be seen as emphasizing the need for clear communication and setting terms in agreements to avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, it showcases the virtue of extending mercy to others, recognizing the potential for good in everyone, regardless of their past or present circumstances.

Cross-References

• Joshua 2:14: “And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the Lord hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.”
• Joshua 6:17: “And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the LORD: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent.”
• Hebrews 11:31: “By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.”
• James 2:25: “Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?”

Language Study

Key words in this verse include “blameless” (Hebrew: נקי, “naqiy”) and “oath” (Hebrew: אלה, “alah”). “Blameless” conveys a sense of being clear of guilt or responsibility, while “oath” refers to a solemn promise or a binding vow. Understanding the original Hebrew emphasizes the gravity and legal formality of this agreement.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The practice of making oaths or binding promises is common in many ancient cultures, often accompanied by rituals or symbols to signify the solemnity of the agreement. In Rahab’s story, the “scarlet cord” serves as both a sign and symbol, reminiscent of varied ancient practices signifying protection or covenant, such as the blood of the lamb in Jewish Passover tradition or similarly, red markers in other ancient cultures thought to protect or ward off evil.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives might examine the logistics of ancient city fortifications and how a figure like Rahab would be able to help spies escape. Anthropological discussions might also explore social structures and roles in ancient Jericho, such as that of a ‘harlot,’ and how these may have influenced her actions and her interactions with the Israelite spies.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights on this verse. Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for example, views the spies’ interaction with Rahab as an act of faith and a symbol of God’s grace. The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges notes the legal nature of the agreement made with Rahab, while the Pulpit Commentary reflects on the moral implications of the spies’ promise and Rahab’s truthfulness. These differing perspectives highlight the multilayered interpretations of the text, ranging from legalistic to moral and symbolic interpretations.