What does Joshua 2:22 mean?

And they went, and came unto the mountain, and abode there three days, until the pursuers were returned: and the pursuers sought them throughout all the way, but found them not. Joshua 2:22

Explanation

Joshua 2:22 speaks about the safe escape of the Israelite spies who had been sent by Joshua to scout the city of Jericho. The verse describes how they took refuge in the mountains for three days to avoid being caught by their pursuers. By hiding there and waiting until the coast was clear – specifically until their pursuers had searched and returned without finding them – they managed to return safely to their own people. This escape and evasion were crucial for the success of their mission and subsequently, the Israelite conquest of Jericho. The barriers they faced and overcame are illustrative of divine protection and the fulfillment of God’s promise to Israel.

Historical Context

Joshua 2:22 is set in the context of the early days of the Israelite entrance into the Promised Land, which was given to them by divine promise. The Israelites have crossed the Jordan River and are preparing to conquer Canaan, starting with the city of Jericho. In the historical narrative, Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after Moses’ death, sends spies to assess the city’s defenses. The cultural norm of the time included walled cities, which were indicative of strength and security. The episode with the spies is rich with practices of the ancient world, such as hospitality, sanctuary, and the importance of intelligence-gathering in warfare.

Theological Insights

From a theological viewpoint, Joshua 2:22 portrays several key ideas:

• Divine Providence: The protection and successful return of the spies can be viewed as a manifestation of divine providence, reinforcing the idea that God is actively involved in guiding and aiding His people.
• Faith and Obedience: The spies’ obedience to Joshua’s command and their faith in God’s plan illustrate the importance of trust in God’s power and directives, which is a recurring theme throughout the Bible.
• God’s Sovereignty: This event demonstrates God’s sovereignty over human affairs, showing that He can manipulate circumstances to fulfill His plans.

Different theological perspectives will emphasize various aspects of this passage. For example, a Calvinist might focus on the doctrine of predestination, where the event is a part of God’s sovereign plan, while an Arminian might emphasize human responsibility and God’s provision in response to the spy’s actions and faith.

Practical Applications

Joshua 2:22 can offer several practical applications for life:

• The wisdom of strategic retreat and patience: Sometimes it is necessary to withdraw temporarily and wait for the right moment to act.
• Reliance on God during difficult situations: The verse encourages individuals to trust in God when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges.
• The value of teamwork and cooperation: The spies’ success hinged on their ability to work together and their mutual trust.

Cross-References

• 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

In the original Hebrew text, key words include:

• “Mountain” (הָהָר – “hāhār”): Often symbolizing a place of refuge or encounter with God.
• “Dwelt” or “abode” (יָשַׁב – “yashab”): The term can indicate settling or remaining in a place; it suggests intention and purpose.
• “Pursuers” (רֹדְפִים – “rod’fim”): Those who are seeking to capture or kill; the term has military connotations, indicating an aggressive and diligent search.

The understanding of these words in their original context enriches the sense of urgency and the tactical decisions made by the spies.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of espionage is not unique to the Israelite narrative; it is a common motif found in many ancient cultures, including Egyptian, Babylonian, and Hittite records. The use of spies and the element of a divine hand in war can be found throughout ancient mythology. Additionally, the practices of offering sanctuary or protection, as Rahab did for the spies, can be found in various religious traditions as an act of piety or hospitality.

Scientific Perspectives

While Joshua 2:22 is a historical and theological narrative, one could apply a scientific lens to the mention of the “three days” the spies spent in the mountains. This specified time frame may suggest a practical period that the pursuers would search before giving up. From a psychological standpoint, this could be seen as a calculation of human behavior. Furthermore, the choice of hiding in the mountains aligns with survival strategies, taking advantage of geography for concealment and protection.

commentaries

Biblical scholars and commentators offer varying insights on Joshua 2:22:

• Matthew Henry Commentary: Henry emphasizes the providence of God in guiding the spies to safety and the importance of Rahab’s faith and actions in the narrative.
• The Pulpit Commentary: This commentary discusses the strategic nature of the spies’ actions, how their escape reflects on their faith and obedience, and the role of Rahab.
• John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible: Gill provides insights into the historicity of the event, mentioning the possibility of the spies’ divine guidance and the significance of the phrase “three days.”

Overall, commentators often focus on the providential aspect of the spies’ journey, their faith, and the tactical decision-making involved in their successful return.