What does Joshua 2:3 mean?

And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country. Joshua 2:3

Explanation

Joshua 2:3 recounts a crucial moment from the narrative surrounding the Israelite spies sent to Jericho. In this verse, the king of Jericho has been informed of the presence of the Israelite men in his city and believes they are there to spy on the land. The king’s message to Rahab, the innkeeper, is direct: he commands her to bring out the men who are staying in her house. The urgency and severity of the command indicate the king’s understanding that these men pose a significant threat, as they are believed to be reconnoitering the city in preparation for an Israeli attack.

Historical Context

This verse is set in the time of Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after Moses. The context is the Israelite’s entry into Canaan, the Promised Land. Jericho was a fortified city and a key stronghold that the Israelites needed to capture to establish themselves in the region. The use of spies was a common military tactic in ancient times to gather intelligence before an attack. Rahab’s house, possibly an inn or a place of lodging for travelers, was strategically situated on the city walls, providing the spies with both shelter and a means of escape.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse showcases divine providence and the theme of unlikely allies. Rahab, although a Canaanite prostitute, plays a pivotal role in the Israelite narrative. From a Christian standpoint, her cooperation with the spies demonstrates God’s ability to use people from all walks of life to fulfill His purposes. This verse also sets the stage for Rahab’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus Christ as mentioned in the New Testament, highlighting the idea of redemption.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can be seen as a lesson in courage and standing for one’s convictions, as Rahab does in deciding to protect the spies. Additionally, it speaks to the importance of discernment and the willingness to act upon one’s beliefs, even amidst potential danger. It encourages individuals to consider the broader impact of their actions, and how they may fit into a larger plan or purpose.

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?”
• 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.”

Language Study

In the original Hebrew text, key words include:

• “King” (מלך, melech): a ruler or monarch, implying authority and the capacity to command.
• “Jericho” (יריחו, Yeriḥo): the city that was a significant objective for the Israelites.
• “Sent” (שׁלח, shlach): implies the issuance of an authoritative order.
• “Rahab” (רחב, Rahav): the name of the woman who hid the spies, which also carries the meaning of “broad” or “wide.”
• “Men” (אנשׁים, anashim): a term for males but used here to denote spies or scouts.
• “House” (בית, bayit): here referring to the place of Rahab’s residence, and by extension, her protection.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This episode of Rahab and the spies can be compared to other ancient stories where key figures assist foreign agents or gods, such as in the Greek myth of Baucis and Philemon, who show hospitality to disguised gods. Culturally, it represents a common trope of stranger hospitality and the honoring of guests, but with the added complexity of the guests being potential enemies.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the strategies involved in ancient espionage as described in this verse, such as the gathering of intelligence before a battle, are consistent with what anthropology and military history tell us about human tactics in warfare. Additionally, the structural layout of ancient cities like Jericho can be informed by archaeological findings that shed light on the story’s plausibility.

Commentaries

Various scholars and theologians have commented on this passage:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary highlights the role of Providence in protecting the spies and emphasizes Rahab’s faith and kindness in sheltering them.
• The Pulpit Commentary points out the danger the spies were in and the importance of Rahab’s actions for the success of Israel’s entry into Canaan.
• The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges explores the risk Rahab took by defying her king and concludes that her actions were driven by her belief in the power of the God of Israel.
• Adam Clarke’s Commentary discusses the possible reasons Rahab chose to hide the spies, suggesting that it was out of self-preservation and recognition of Israel’s might.