Rahab commentary She believed that his promises would certainly be fulfilled, and his threatenings take effect; and that there was no way of escape but by submitting to him, and joining with his people. They see the spies’ agreement as direct disobedience to the Mosaic rules of holy war. 1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent two men secretly from Shittim as spies, saying, “Go, view the land, especially Jericho. Here, as in Job 26:12-13 (which perhaps Ethan had in mind), this Canaanite mythology is transformed and used to teach. Up to the roof — In those countries the roofs of the houses were made quite flat, and it is probable it might be customary to lay the stalks of flax upon them that they might be dried by the heat of the sun. By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace. If the former, then there is a probable allusion here to the overthrow of Pharaoh and his hosts; but we lack evidence to make it plain. — Rahab having been faithful to her vow of secrecy, the Israelites were bound by the oath of the spies, who acted as their representatives in this business, to preserve her and her family alive. After the book of Joshua, Rahab isn’t mentioned in the Bible Commentary. I will make mention — Hebrew, אזכיר, azchir, I will record, or, cause to be remembered, Rahab — That is, Egypt, so called, Psalm 89:10; Isaiah 51:9, but whether from its pride, or natural strength, both which the word signifies, is not material; and Babylon — I will reckon upon the inhabitants of Egypt and Babylon, though most alienated from the profession "The helpers of Rahab do stoop under him" The reference here is to an ancient Babylonian myth. 2:1-7 Faith in God's promises ought not to do away, but to encourage our diligence in the use of proper means. This beautiful new land Then when Jericho’s wall fell down, Rahab’s house, “on a side of the wall,” was not destroyed. The Covenant between Her and Them. when she welcomed the spies Rahab's welcoming of the spies is a reference to the account in Joshua 2. One narrative detail gratuitously read in sexual terms is her name, Rahab, which is linked to the idea of “broadness. Read the Passage. Yet Rahab affirms that Yahweh alone is God and rules over all! When she said, “the Lord your God, he is God,” she is saying, in no uncertain terms, he is the only God. !9 Picking up on where the Tamar narrative left off, the story of Rahab in Joshua 2 continues relating Yahweh’s use of the most unlikely people to accomplish his purposes, and similarly to Tamar, Rahab becomes part of the community of faith — Yahweh’s people. A Commentary on Joshua - Intro; Joshua Commentary 2; MAX FRAZIER - all devotionals on one page. Joshua 2:4. )But whether Rahab was Egypt, or a poetical name for the lost archangel, it is impossible to say. An harlot's house - In the face of the parallel passages (e. " Arthur S. At that time the people wanted to find out whether they were likely to be able to overcome the enemy, and ten of the twelve spies reported that the odds were against them, Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament. - And Joshua the son of Nun sent. James 2:25-26 In the same way, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For just as the body without the spirit is Spies sent to Jericho and hidden by Rahab. —Literally, helpers of Rahab. Rahab also requested a token or sign of this agreement. Faith ultimately will require some action on our part. When Joshua was planning his conquest of Jericho, two of his spies took lodging in her home. In Job 9:13, we saw that Rahab has helpers. Rahab was a “harlot,” or prostitute, in the city of Jericho. Rahab must remain an example under the Law similar to that Luke 7:37 under the Gospel, of “a woman that was a sinner,” yet, because of her Rahab symbolizes opposition and pride against God. Rindge, and Jacqueline E. As justification signifies, not only the pardon of sin, but receiving the Divine approbation, James seems to use the word in this latter sense. g. Most probably Rahab and Leviathan designate the same demonic power (see, Adventist Review, May 11, 2000, p. Twelve men had been sent before at the request of the people (Deuteronomy 1:22). In her effort to save the lives of the two men, Rahab certainly lied to the king. Rahab confessed her faith in God before anything was done for her. Clarke's Commentary. Howard, Jr. Rahab in the Bible: Story Recap. After a period of separation from Israel’s camp, Rahab and her family were permitted to dwell among the Israelites. , Egypt, Babylon, Tyre, Philistia, and Ethiopia are not so honourable as Jerusalem. Is not lying always wrong? God says that He hates lying (Prov. ” 3 Then the When the city of Jericho was being taken, Rahab and her family were rescued and led out to a place outside of the camp. It shows that God’s grace is not limited by human boundaries or categories. Rahab’s lie. Thus many want to protect Rahab’s reputation. Rahab is one of those people Rahab was part of a corrupt, depraved, pagan culture. 6. This pagan gentile and her family now stand within the circle of the chosen people. Galatians: Freedom through Rahab's account also symbolizes courage and the potential for personal transformation. She dwelt upon the wall — Her particular dwelling was there; which may possibly be added, because the other part of her house was reserved for the entertainment of strangers. — רהב Rahab, the very name by which Egypt is called Isaiah 51:9, and elsewhere. "That didst cut Rahab in pieces" The name Rahab is here a poetic name of Egypt, just as Gotham is the poetic name of New York City. It was that arm which wielded the sword of justice and of vengeance by which Rahab was cut in pieces. The harlot Rahab perished not — See this account Joshua 2:1; Joshua 2:9; Joshua 2:11, and Joshua 6:23, where it is rendered exceedingly probable that the word זונה zonah in Hebrew, and πορνη in Greek, which we translate harlot, should be rendered innkeeper or tavernkeeper, as there is no proper evidence that the person in question was Clarke's Commentary. Faith, producing such works, advanced him to peculiar favours. Only Rahab the harlot shall live: Joshua was careful to protect Rahab according to the promise made to her (Joshua 2:12-14). 11:31) and of righteous works (James 2:25). Now Joshua the son of Nun sent out two men from Acacia Grove to spy secretly, saying, “Go, view the land, especially Jericho. It will give you a glimpse In his commentary, Rashi picks up on a linguistic peculiarity in one of the verses of the haftarah. Rahab later became the wife of Salmon, the great-great-grandmother of King David, and an ancestor of Jesus Because of Rahab fearing God, she was able to begin developing godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7; 15:33). Some feel compelled to make this argument simply because being a prostitute is not a good thing. She knew that if she waited until Israel came before she set it out again, the people of the city would be more likely to suspect that it was a signal to the enemy. Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain Or Egypt, as in ( Psalms 87:4) ( Isaiah 51:9) or the Egyptians, and particularly Pharaoh their king; so the Targum explains it, ``Rahab or the proud one, this is Pharaoh the wicked;'' who and his people were broken to pieces by the plagues that were brought upon them, especially when all their firstborn were Clarke's Commentary. ) Rahab received the two spies and sheltered them. Listen to David Guzik's Bible commentary sermons in audio and video format on Enduring Word. Luke, writing for non THE SPIES RECEIVED AND HIDDEN BY RAHAB (vv. "Rahab" in this context is not referring to the woman from the book of Joshua, but rather a mythical sea monster or symbol of chaos and pride. Battling Rahab: Psalm 89:6-15 is a hymn praising God's cosmic dominion. 10. C. Thus, why does Scripture record her lie without condemning it? Indeed, Scripture has nothing but praise for Rahab. Three Joshua 2:1-14 Rahab: Courageous Faith; Joshua 2:1-24, 4:21-24, 6:24-25, 27 Orienting Faith; EXPOSITOR'S DICTIONARY. Lance Waldie . OT Torah Commentary. On the meaning of the word, see the notes at Matthew Henry's Commentary. What did Israel need to do to Rahab shows up multiple times in the Jewish Christian Literature, both in James 2 and also previously in the faith chapter of Hebrews, chapter 11 verse 31. However, Rahab had one asset—she had heard from the many men she came into contact with that “By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient” (Hebrews 11:31). The part about Rahab is an example of how God uses a sinner to accomplish His purpose and in whose heart He works a change. The king of Jericho was told, “Look, some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land. This chapter of Joshua recounts the memorable encounter of two Jewish spies with a harlot from Jericho named Rahab. Rahab must remain an example under the Law similar to that Luke 7:37 under the Gospel, of "a woman that was a sinner," yet, because of her faith, not only pardoned, but Some commentators are disturbed by Rahab’s request and the spies’ agreement to honor it. Perhaps with her initial words, the woman is claiming an ancestral relationship to Jesus. Verse Job 26:12. Swear unto me by the Lord — Hebrew, by Jehovah, your God, who is the only true God: so she owns his worship, one eminent act whereof is, swearing by his name. , each one of the spies: for this change from the plural to the singular see Ewald, §219), and said to the king's messengers: כּן , recte , “It is quite correct, the IVP New Testament Commentary Series – Rahab (2:25-26) Resources. Some believe that she is a different woman but that is hard to establish. He is particularly praised because He "crushed Rahab like one of the slain" (verse 10, NIV). Genealogies of Jesus (Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38)The genealogies recorded by Matthew and Luke show how the birth of Jesus fulfilled the promises made to Abraham (Genesis 12:2-3; Genesis 22:18). In the course of event, these spies happened to come to the place of Rahab and the The Life of Rahab. Let's continue with our studies in the book of Joshua, following Israel's journey from Egypt through to Canaan. 2 And it was told to the king of Jericho, “Behold, men of Israel have come here tonight to search out the land. All of this began with Rahab’s faith in a God she had come to know secondhand through nearly The Canaanites were polytheists and worshiped a variety of gods. According to the Zevachim, Rahab was age 50 when she encountered the spies, was about 10 at the time of the Exodus and the two spies played an important part in We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. After all, Rahab was a Canaanite prostitute. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there. Rahab’s life is truly a With the immediate threat abated, Rahab addressed the spies. Rahab feared God and as a result, her life and the life of her family was spared from the destruction of Jericho (Proverbs Like Rahab, we have been saved solely by the undeserved grace of God. The Conquest of the Promised Land - A Devotional Commentary on The New Concise Bible Dictionary defines this ‘Rahab’, (spelled differently in Hebrew from Rahab the harlot of Joshua 2) as “The name for a female monster of chaos, associated with LEVIATHAN” (New Concise Bible Dictionary, 73). Rahab also had heard of the conquest of the Israelites through the hand of the living God and believed and thereafter became a doer. Paul deals specially with doctrine, James is concerned with practice; Paul expounds the wonderful Commentary. He smiteth through the proud. X; Facebook; Instagram; Rahab is a name, but it is also the Hebrew word for pride, and is sometimes used as a title for Egypt (Psalm 87:4). ; the harlot Rahab — That is, who had once been a harlot; but after she believed in the true God, it is reasonable to think she amended her manners, as well as repented of the lie by which she deceived the king of Jericho’s messengers. This act of courage is a powerful Joshua 2:12-13. He was surnamed "the Just," and was much respected beyond the limits of the Christian Church for his saintly life. Rahab the foreigner recognises that Israel’s God was the God who gave the land to The Matthean Jesus is the son of David from the beginning of the narrative as revealed in the genealogy (Matthew 1:1, 16). Verse 25. As if she had said, "I know your God to be omnipotent and omnipresent:" and in consequence of this faith she hid the spies, and risked her own life in doing it. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Joshua’s Spies and Rahab (6:22–27) 6:22–25 To close out Israel’s victory at Jericho, the narrative returns to the solemn agreement between Joshua’s spies and Rahab (2:1–24). Rahab's story represents what God has in store for those in non-Israelite nations (the gentiles), who are also promised God's salvation (Acts 2:21; Romans 9:22-26). The only moment of tenderness in this account is the story of Rahab in Jericho. God’s people would honor Rahab’s faith in the living God. Or Egypt, as in Psalm 87:4 or the Egyptians, and particularly Pharaoh their king; so the Targum explains it, "Rahab or the proud one, this is Pharaoh the wicked;'' who and his people were broken to pieces by the plagues that were brought upon them, especially when all their firstborn were slain; and he and his host Hebrews 11:31. My father’s house — My near kindred, which she particularly names, (Joshua 2:13,) husband and children, it seems, she had none. 2:8-9). 2 And Joshua the son of Nun () sent [] two men secretly from Shittim as spies, saying, “Go, view the land, especially Jericho. ” Traditionally, “Rahab” is read as a harsh nickname highlighting the woman’s occupation, prostitution, or as a reference to Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible. According to most scholars, Joshua, Judges, 1-2 Samuel, and 1-2 Kings were edited into a coherent story intended to advance the themes of the book of Deuteronomy, particularly the claim that Israel’s fate depends on worshipping Yahweh alone. When the king of Jericho was informed of the fact that these strange men had entered the house of Rahab, and suspecting their reason for coming, summoned Rahab to give them up, she hid them (lit. A foreign woman is one of only two persons named in the story – the other being Joshua. (See Isaiah 30:7; Psalm 87:4. Is Egypt being identified as “seed of the serpent” (Gen. , Isaiah 9:13), viz. Rahab's actions were a manifestation of her faith in the God of Israel, showing that true faith results in righteous deeds. In a basket - This word is used to denote commonly "the basket in which food was carried," Matthew 15:37; Mark 8:8, Mark 8:20. In a very similar sort of reference to Rahab, see Psalm 89:10: “Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain. - By submitting your email address, you understand that you will receive email communications from Bible Gateway, a division of The Zondervan Corporation, 501 Nelson Pl, Nashville, TN 37214 USA, including commercial communications and messages from partners of Bible Gateway. She had not benefited from the godly leadership of Moses or Joshua. Certain writers use the midrash example to say that Matthew wrote about many events that never happened, but he wasn’t lying because he never intended to tell the truth, (13) Proud helpers. She couldn’t know for certain that her Time: Into the Land ~1400 B. ” 3 Then the king of Rahab and the Spies - Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned unto him for righteousness. The Rescue of Rahab A. Rahab provided lodging for travelers staying in Jericho and Rahab was a Canaanite and a prostitute. Newsom, Sharon H. More modern theories about the Gospel of Matthew say that he wrote in the style of Jewish midrash literature, which creates imaginary stories as a running commentary on the Old Testament. [The author of [MacArthur Bible Commentary] Digging Deeper: Read Exodus 15:13-. By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish: Joshua 2 tells us of Rahab, who might seem an unusual example of faith. Rahab, who begins as triply marginalized (Canaanite, woman, and prostitute), moves to the center as bearer of a divine message and herald of Israel in its new land. It was in this way that Rahab let down the spies Joshua 2:15, and so David escaped from Saul, 1 Samuel 19:12. Rahab's Legacy: Influence on Modern Culture and Theology Rahab in Biblical Narrative The name Rahab means proud one, and in Canaanite mythology the sea god Yam was subdued, and the sea serpent Rahab was killed at creation. “I will make mention of Rahab and Babylon to those who know Me; Behold, O Philistia and Tyre, with This essay is an abridged version of comments on Joshua 2 in David M. , after their settlement in Canaan. , hid him, i. Her son was Boaz, the husband of Ruth. --Literally, "The helpers of Rahab do stoop [or, 'are prostrate'] under him. Rahab so feared the coming judgment of God (chapter 2 verses 1-21), that she fled to his mercy. Rahab was from Jericho but Jericho was destroyed completely. Rahab hides the Israelite spies on her roof; Achan hides the Canaanite loot under his tent. Fords — Or, passages; that is, the places where people used to pass over Jordan, whether by boats or bridges. " Verse 3. She is remembered in Jewish tradition as the great proselyte, as ancestress of kings and prophets, and, in the James 2:25-26. Rahab was a good daughter; with all her wrong she loved her father and her mother. Who might be the "Rahab" for your church community? How does the Rahab story affect you spiritually? 2. James Faith and Deeds: The Theological Unity (2:14 Rahab represents the opposite extreme, both because she was a prostitute and because she was a comparatively minor figure in Old Testament history. 353. IVP New Testament Commentary Series. Rahab must remain an example under the Law similar to that Luke 7:37 under the Gospel, of "a woman that was a sinner," yet, because of her faith, not only pardoned, but Clarke's Commentary. And this is justly mentioned as a great and generous act of faith, (Hebrews 11:31,) for she apparently ventured her life upon a Rahab is a literary character in the book of Joshua, the first of the four books of the Deuteronomistic History. Ver. Now she received mercy. By all means abstain from the accursed things: Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers (13) Proud helpers. Brought out Rahab, and her father, c. And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab That Salmon begat Boaz, is affirmed in ( Ruth 4:21) but it is not there said, nor any where else in the Old Testament, as here, that he begat him of Rahab, that is, of Rahab the harlot. Sandwiched in between the notices of Jericho’s destruction is this lovely story of salvation and rescue. 27). Verse Joshua 2:11. Verse 1. Peake, A Commentary on the Bible (London: T. He is God in heaven above, and to earth beneath. 11 Dec. Rahab stood gazing out her window at the ancient city of Jericho. She possessed great beauty and was a woman of even greater strength. Much work remained. Verse Joshua 6:23. Rahab has only heard of God yet fears him; Achan has seen God’s Pulpit Commentary. And for herself it was needless to speak, it being a plain and undeniable An harlot's house - In the face of the parallel passages (e. 2. But the name Rahab is also associated in the Bible with a mythical sea creature. The Old Testament heroine Rahab (pronounced “Raw-KHAWB” in Hebrew) is mentioned in glowing terms several times in the New Testament. Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers (13) Proud helpers. , put to death without quarter (Joshua 6:21; cf. Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain; thou hast scattered thine enemies with thy strong arm. ” There weren’t James 2:25. Rahab plays a key role in the conquest of Jericho, and there is a theological reason for this choice. 1). After the taking of Jericho, man and beast were banned, i. According to the law, Rahab had no part in the promises of Israel: She was a harlot, something that was an abomination to the Lord. Israel - The Africa Bible Commentary (262) Rahab 5 FYI: “The The Hebrew phrase translated her house was on the city wall suggests that Rahab’s house was in A Canaanite woman living in Jericho, Rahab is a prostitute who is also a biblical heroine. " Rahab in this passage, and also in Job 26:12, as well us in Isaiah 51:9, seems to be used as the proper name of some great power of evil Such a power was recognized in the mythology of Egypt, In commenting on Isa 30:7, we have the following observations from the Cambridge commentary: The general sense may be, “This proud boastful monster—its proper name is ‘Inaction’. (Joshua 2:1a) Joshua sends forth spies. (22-24) Verses 1-7 Faith in God's promises ought not to do away, but to encourage our diligence in the use of proper means. ” And they went and came into the house of () a prostitute whose name was () Rahab and lodged there. Get you to the mountain — That is, to some of the mountains Most Bible readers know Rahab as the heroine of the battle of Jericho story (Joshua 2; 6:22–25). Her name was Rahab. was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works . Keil and Delitzsch Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament explains, “Their entering the house of such a person would not excite so much suspicion. ” Benson’s Commentary Rahab Hoped for Mere Survival but Gained Salvation on the Basis of Her Faith. “Go, look over the land,” he said, “especially Jericho. 7. As one that is slain — The whole clause in the original is, אתה דכאת כחלל רהב attah dikkitha kechalal Rahab, "Thou, like a hero, hast broken down Egypt. What does James mean that we are justified by works and not by faith alone? How are Abraham and Rahab examples of this? We answer these questions in this portion of our commentary on James. By faith — Expressed in her words, recorded Joshua 2:9-11, I know that the Lord hath given you the land, &c. Verse by Verse Commentary. In telling the story of Rahab hiding the spies, it says that Rahab hid “him,” in the singular. The conduct of Rahab proved that she had the real principle of Divine faith. Their new life with the Jews gave them a chance to know about God and for their lives to be transformed as Rahab’s was. But it seems most probable that that work was not yet done, and that Job lived long before Israel’s coming out of RAHAB A harlot who lived in Jericho. Rahab the harlot — Joshua 2:1, c. 11:22-25, 28:9-10 to see what God promised Israel about their enemies. Others, however, see Rahab’s situation as wholly unique because of her faith confession in Israel’s God. Leviticus 21:7: Jeremiah 5:7) the rendering advocated for obvious reasons, namely, “the house of a woman, an innkeeper,” cannot be maintained. Ps. He was also a close associate of Moses and Joshua, and his sister, Elisheba, was married to Aaron, the first high priest. , and " Hebrews 11:31 ", &c. This is such a well-known detail that it provides an interesting test case for assessing the validity of different interpretive expectations. In the Letter to the Hebrews we read: “By faith Rahab the harlot did not perish Psalms 89:10 - John Trapp Complete Commentary. Rahab Hides the Spies. Former Prophets. In ancient Near Eastern mythology, Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers (10) Rahab. Joshua 2:15-16. (31) The faith of Rahab. There is more evidence for her being the same person as Rahab the harlot. Believing in the living God and knowing that Jericho would fall,Rahab desired to be saved with all her family(we also should take note of this!). e. Rahab: A Faithful, Repentant Believer. Verse 1 of this chapter should apparently say "had sent" rather than "sent," as the events from 2:1 through 3:1 evidently transpire before the "three days" mentioned in Joshua 1:11. , 1924), p. Rahab was a Gentile, a woman, and a prostitute, but she became a part of God’s people and his plan. 16 Ruth The book of Ruth continues this thread we have seen thus far in Genesis 38 with Tamar Explore the Book of Ruth and its story of the redemption and inclusion of Gentiles in this free TGC Bible Commentary by John Currid. | × Browse Articles Featured Essay as we mentioned in the introduction, this is one important reason that Clarke's Commentary. Leviticus 21:7: Jeremiah 5:7) the rendering advocated for obvious reasons, namely, "the house of a woman, an innkeeper," cannot be maintained. , Carol A. God's shattering of Rahab is a reminder of His ultimate victory over evil. . "Rahab here, like the dragon in Isaiah 51:9 is the ancient mythological name of Tiamat, the original Chaos, whom God conquered in the Creation. Another ANE Tannin was Rahab (“arrogant one” according to Waltke). 260. Their strength is to sit still - "Rahab the Inactive. In the original Hebrew, the spelling is Jos 2:8-21. Bridgeway Bible Commentary. While St. ” HEBREWS 11:31 Background After 40 years of struggle, Israel stood poised to enter the Promised Land. Lesson from Rahab: Wisdom is justified by her children. ” The context of this Psalm is David's covenant with God. Introduction. She asked them to save her and her family when they attacked the city, which they did. Matthew 1:5. Nahshon was the leader of the tribe of Judah and commanded their army. In the Old Testament, specifically the book of Joshua, we are introduced to one of the most intriguing and brave women of the David Guzik commentary on Isaiah 51, where the Lord appeals to those who seek Him, promissing future blessings, encouraging to fear God, not man. and E. There was one requirement: Rahab must remain silent about their Rahab Woman of Jericho will give you insight into what life may have been like for the people who remained in the camp while the Israelite army fought their enemies. The . ” So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab Took him by night - This was done through a window in the wall, 2 Corinthians 11:33. What is the teaching point of the Ai narrative and ho Rahab the harlot played an important role in the story of Israel. God knew where there was one that would be true to them, though they did not. Joshua was a keen army general who sent two men on a secret intelligence gathering mission to spy out the Promised Land. Isaiah 51:9-10 says, “Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the LORD; awake, Web. --The word is taken in the two opposite Verses 2-6. b. In the New Testament she is cited as a heroine of faith (Heb. As many native women in conquest accounts (historical and fictional), Rahab in Joshua 2 is often “hypersexualised” in biblical scholarship. I find the learned Professor Doederlein, in his version of Isaiah, and note on this place, has given the same conjecture; which he speaks of as having been formerly published David Guzik commentary on Isaiah 30, where Isaiah gives a warning to those in Judah who looked to Egypt for deliverance, and calls Judah to trust in God. She was not valued by her people, and she had no view of a better life, one with hope. The brave and generous prostitute saves Joshua [s spies. The spies responded by agreeing to spare her life and those of her family in exchange for her actions. 3:15) through the reference to her as a monster from the watery deep? Chapter 2. Verse 31. Now we must deal with the hardest and most contentious question. 74:13–14). (1-7) Rahab and the spies. Her conversion reminds us that one day God will write His laws on the hearts and minds of all mankind, converting all peoples ( Hebrews 8:11 ). The providence of God directed the spies to the house of Rahab. Verse Isaiah 30:7. Her decision to protect the spies required significant bravery, as it involved risking her life by defying the king of Jericho. To be born in any of them is no privilege when compared with being a native of Jerusalem: their cities are but heads of villages; Jerusalem alone is a CITY. ” So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there. Verse Joshua 2:3. Rahab was a Canaanite woman, a citizen of a nation known for worshipping idols. Indeed, putting events together, we apparently have the following timeline: Pulpit Commentary, Vol. Charlie, there is no reference as to where they were married. This As we prepare our hearts for the Lord’s Table, would you open your Bible to Joshua chapter 2? Just a brief reminder of a great, great Old Testament account: Joshua, the leader of God’s people Israel Rahab’s story is remarkable for several reasons. Rahab had the approbation due to genuine faith, which she actually possessed, and gave the fullest proof that she did so by her conduct. 8-13. They were suspected of being Joshua's men, but Rahab risked death 2:8-21 Rahab had heard of the miracles the Lord wrought for Israel. Rahab is a story of God’s grace, not a story of a good person deserving of salvation. ” Psalm 87:4. C. (Jos 2:15; 6:22) On Joshua’s orders that Rahab’s household be spared, the same two spies brought her out to safety. Joshua had directed the two spies to fetch them out of her house, and in the first instance had them taken to a place of safety outside the camp of Israel (Joshua 6:22, Joshua 6:23). Rahab receives and hides two Israelites. And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. II, p. Reflect on the implication of the Rahab story in your life and church context. Rahab’s story is a wonderful exhibit of God’s grace! It contains seven lessons that I can Rahab is a Canaanite woman; Achan is an Israelite man. Rahab and the Spies . James 2:1. " Rahab in this passage, and also in Job 26:12, as well us in Isaiah 51:9, seems to be used as the proper name of some great power of evil Such a power was recognized in the mythology of Egypt, Rahab’s story serves as a reminder that faith can redefine our identities, allowing us to become integral parts of a larger divine plan. Like Rahab, we can exercise faith and loyalty to the true God through hearing and reading about Him. Egypt) "Rahab, that sits still;" or "Arrogance, that 'sits still. Having made her Rabbinic Commentary. " Here are the concluding expository remarks from Steven Cole on Rahab the Harlot God converts hopeless sinners by faith (He 11:31). Ed: This was made Rahab readily assented to the conditions, and the spies left. I will make mention of Rahab — The meaning seems to be, Rahab, i. Through her life, we learn that faith is not just a personal journey but a communal legacy that can inspire and uplift others. O you Christian people, do seek to be good in your relationships at home. In 2019 he published a commentary. You might think from her profession that she was Rahab’s faith effectively saved her entire family from destruction. Thou hast broken Rahab — Thou hast destroyed the power of Egypt, having overthrown the king and its people when they endeavoured to prevent thy people from regaining their liberty. Joshua Chapter 2: Rahab - From Harlot to Hero! by F Gordon. — This confession of the true God is amazingly full, and argues considerable light and information. Salmon begat Booz of Rachab — Viz. (22-24) Commentary on Joshua 2:1-7 (Read Joshua 2:1-7) Faith in God's promises ought not to do away, but to encourage our diligence in the use of proper means. 1-24) Joshua then sent two spies to "view the land, especially Jericho"(v. God saved her soul when she believed that. 9/6/2024 by Dr. Rahab must remain an example under the Law similar to that Luke 7:37 under the Gospel, of "a woman that was a sinner," yet, because of her faith, not only pardoned, but Use Bible commentary free online for Bible study including these popular commentaries; Matthew Henry, John Calvin, Geneva Study Bible, Martin Luther's, John Gill's, Jamieson, Faussett & Brown and more. 1. This the Evangelist Clarke's Commentary. _ Egypt, which is called Rahab for its Psalms 89:10 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments Matthew Henry's Commentary. 11). Joshua 6:17); Rahab and her relations being the only exceptions. For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea for you See more Rahab’s story illustrates that God’s purpose is not limited to your past. The word 'Rahab' here means Egypt. He can save anyone who trusts in him, regardless of their ethnicity, gender, or social status. Yes Rahab of Joshua is the same as Rahab of Matthew 1. Rahab was a He speaks either, 1. Of God’s dividing the Red Sea for the Israelites to pass over; and consequently the Hebrew word rahab, which here follows, and is translated pride, or the proud, is meant of Egypt, which is oft called Rahab, as Psalm 87:4 89:10 Isaiah 51:9. Verse Psalms 89:10. It is not exact said that this woman was Rahab of Jericho, commonly called the harlot, but it is highly probable she was; for that Rahab was contemporary with Salmon, and a remarkable person, and there was no other of that name, especially of that age, of whom the compiler of the table The biblical Rahab is a Canaanite prostitute who becomes faithful to the God of Israel, “Rahab and Her Interpreters,” in The Women’s Bible Commentary, ed. One person who plays an important role in Joshua’s siege of Jericho, the first city he attacks as he begins to take possession of Canaan, is Rahab the prostitute. David Guzik commentary on Psalm 87 describes the declaration of the sons of Koran, who praise the greatness and blessing of Zion. Also like Rahab, we have nothing in ourselves that can win God’s favor except faith, and even faith is a gift of God (Eph. In Jericho, her hometown, Rahab heard about the Lord, the God Discover the story of Rahab in the Bible and how we can relate to her tale of faith and redemption from a life of sin. " That hath cut Rahab - That is, cut it in pieces, or destroyed it. ” The Pulpit commentary has: Most translate, "Wherefore I name it" (i. "] The two last words, הם שבת hem shabeth, joined into one, make the participle pihel המשבת hammeshabbeth. She began with an acknowledgment, “I know that the LORD has given you this land,” and an admission, “all who live in this country are melting in fear” (v. 12-16. Ultimately, Rahab married Salmon, an Israelite from the tribe of Judah. , κῆτος, a sea-monster, monstrum marinum. Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers (12) He divideth the sea. Her house was upon the town-wall — Which gave her the opportunity of dismissing them when the gates were shut. RAHAB] a symbolic name for Egypt, as in Isaiah 30:7 RV. My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, Abraham and Rahab. In addition to being entertaining to read, (Quoted in David Guzik’s commentary on Joshua 2). Verse Psalms 87:4. By wisdom, God cuts Rahab to pieces. She was a good sister, and desired her brother and sisters to be saved. Jack, Ltd. Rashi offers a simple explanation, that Scripture Matthew 1:5. The Greek Clarke's Commentary. One may take his choice; we fail to see that it makes a lot of difference. Probably this occurred in an unguarded part of the Joshua 2:6-7. “By faith Rahab the prostitute escaped the destruction of the disobedient, because she welcomed the spies in peace. Spies are sent to the city of Jericho. I won't give a penny for you if Rahab receives and hides two Israelites. Genesis Commentary; Exodus Commentary; Leviticus Commentary; Numbers Commentary; Deuteronomy Commentary; OT Prophets Commentary. Joshua 2:1. _ - Elie Wiesel. And the woman — Or, But the woman; had taken and hid them — Before the messengers came from the king; as soon as she understood from her neighbours that there was a suspicion of the matter, and guessed that search would be made. "And they brought out all her kindredAnd Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father's household, and all that she had; and she dwelleth in Israel even unto this day; because she hid the messengers which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho. To make sure that Israel would find her in compliance with the first condition, she made the rope in her window a permanent fixture. Joseph, the legal father of Jesus, is her direct descendant. a. As God exalted the harlot of Jericho, so Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain,. Joshua, now the leader of Israel, sent two spies to scout the city. (Deuteronomy 23:17. And left them without the camp — They were considered as persons unclean, and consequently left without Rahab is identified with Egypt in Isaiah 30:7 and with the dragon in Isaiah 51:9 (cf. With this six-week study on Rahab's life, renew your sense of awe for God's redemptive work in your life. Then Rahab made this shocking declaration: “The LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below” (v. 12:22). Joshua 1 Commentary; F R FAY - Lange's Commentary. _Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces_] _i. 9). Only Rahab and her family were spared. 6 Like Jesus, believers See the proof through the life and legacy of Rahab, a woman who God redeemed. Psalms 89:10. she came up unto them upon the roof and said—Rahab's dialogue is full of interest, as showing the universal panic and consternation of the Canaanites on the one hand (Jos 24:11; De 2:25), and her strong convictions on the other, founded on a knowledge of the divine promise, and the stupendous miracles that had opened Further, by his own wisdom, skill, and power he ‘cut Rahab to pieces’ and ‘pierced the gliding serpent,’ unlike Marduk who depended on the enablement of the father-gods Job, then, demonstrated God’s authority over the domain of Mot (the god of death) in Job 26:5-6 and over the domain of Baal (the cosmic storm god in Job 26:7-10). Likewise also, &c. God assures His people of their speedy deliverance An harlot's house - In the face of the parallel passages (e. 2016. Rahab believed that the Lord of Israel was God when He delivered the Jews from the Egyptians. The gate — Of the city, to prevent the escape of the Rahab is commended for her faith, which aligns with her role in the genealogy of Jesus, demonstrating that faith transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. 1 Samuel 16 The anointing of David, the great-grandson of Ruth and Boaz, Origen— Origen's Commentary on the Gospel of Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible. PRACTICAL CHRISTIANITY - Our Daily Walk by F B Meyer - JAMES IS described as "the Lord's brother" in Gal 1:19. “The very same words that Rahab used to describe the demoralized population of The Greek wording in this passage makes this evident: namely in the form of the definite article before Rahab’s name. (8-21) The return of the spies. Put simply, how much should we read David Guzik commentary on Joshua 7 describes how Achans sin of keeping some of the spoil of the battle causes the Israelites to be defeated by Ai. Related Passages: Matthew 1:5+ (A REDEEMED HARLOT IN THE LINEAGE OF THE REDEEMER! AMAZING GRACE INDEED!)Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab, Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of The account of Rahab takes place after the Exodus from Egypt and 40 years of wandering in the desert. The imagery of the sea monster is important throughout the book of Job, but tends to get lost in translation. Matthew, writing for the Jews, begins his genealogy with Abraham, father of the Jewish race (Matthew 1:1-2 a). X; Facebook; Instagram; Youtube; The name Rahab means pride, and ever since the Garden of Eden, the serpent has been associated with Satan (Genesis 3:1-6). DRAGON] standing for Egypt (Psalms 74:13). D. The implication is that though Rahab is crushed or cut up as if dead Bible Studies in Book of Joshua. ” And they went and came into the house of a prostitute whose name was Rahab and lodged there. The passage could be translated as “Salmon begot Boaz by that Rahab. He divideth the sea with his power — Here is a manifest allusion to the passage of the Red Sea by the Israelites, and the overthrow of Pharaoh and his host, according to the opinion of the most eminent critics. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot (See Gill on Hebrews 11:31) justified by works; this woman was an instance of the grace of God in calling the chief of sinners, and was a true believer; and what she did, she did in faith, ( Hebrews 11:31) and her faith was shown by her works to be true and genuine; and it was manifest that she was a justified person. Job 26:5-13 is another hymn praising the cosmic power of God. Rahab had been wise; not one member of her family was wanting; she had imbued them with her own faith. An harlot’s house - In the face of the parallel passages (e. , Joshua, New American Commentary 5 (Nashville: Broadman & Holman, forthcoming), and is used by permission of Broadman & Scholars have long debated the significance of the red cord that Rahab hung in her window to identify her house during the impending conquest of Jericho (Joshua 2:18). Clearly Rahab was saying this for a reason other than merely to save her skin and that of her family. Rahab believed in God almost 40 years before the spies came to her house (Joshua 2:9-13; 6:22-25). Now before they lay down, she came up to them on the roof, and said to the men: “I know that the LORD has given you the land, that the terror of you has fallen on us, and that all the inhabitants of the land are fainthearted because of you. The king of Jericho sent unto Rahab — This appears to be a proof of the preceding opinion: had she been a prostitute or a person of ill fame he could at once have sent officers to have seized the persons lodged with her as vagabonds; but if she kept a house of entertainment, the persons under her roof were sacred, according to the universal custom of Arts-humanities document from Biola University, 1 page, Aaron Silverman 1. The prophet's address is hardly commenced, Rahab is a name applied to Egypt in other passages also (Isaiah 51:9; Psalm 87:4; Psalm 89:11), and that in the senses attested by the lxx at Job 26:12 (cf. — After Abraham, the father of the Jews, the apostle cites Rahab, a woman and a sinner of the Gentiles, to show that in every nation and sex true faith produces works, and is perfected by them; that is, by the grace of God working in the believer, while he is showing his faith by his works: see note on Hebrews 11:31. 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