Rahab is a remarkable biblical figure, playing an unexpected role in the Israelites’ conquest of Jericho. Despite her past, her story demonstrates how God can work through anyone, regardless of background, to fulfil His purposes. Rahab’s faith in God compelled her to hide the Israelite spies, an act of courage that saved her family and placed her in the lineage of Jesus Christ.
For Christians, Rahab’s story serves as a profound example of redemption, illustrating that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Her transformation from an outsider to a key part of God’s plan encourages believers to trust in the power of faith and God’s ability to change lives.
Verses About Rahab In The Bible
1. Joshua 2:1
“And Joshua the son of Nun sent two men secretly from Shittim as spies, saying, ‘Go, view the land, especially Jericho.’ And they went and came into the house of a prostitute whose name was Rahab and lodged there.”
This verse introduces Rahab as a prostitute living in Jericho who plays a pivotal role in the biblical narrative. Joshua’s decision to send spies to Rahab’s house underscores her significance in the story of Israel’s conquest of Canaan. Her involvement is crucial as it sets the stage for her later actions, greatly impacting the Israelites’ success.
Rahab’s house, situated on the city wall, becomes the focal point of the espionage mission. Her role as a resident of a city destined for destruction yet instrumental in Israel’s plans highlights the theme of redemption and divine providence in seemingly unlikely places.
2. Joshua 2:2
“And it was told to the king of Jericho, ‘Behold, men of Israel have come here tonight to search out the land.’”
The king’s discovery that Israelite spies are in Jericho raises immediate tension and danger. This verse underscores the peril Rahab faces as she decides to protect the spies despite the risk to her own life. It highlights her courage and strategic thinking in a critical moment of espionage.
Despite the king’s orders, Rahab’s decision to hide the spies demonstrates her pivotal role in the unfolding narrative. Her actions testify to her bravery and strategic significance in the Israelites’ plans to conquer Jericho.
3. Joshua 2:4
“But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. And she said, ‘True, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from.’”
Here, Rahab’s act of hiding the spies from the king’s soldiers demonstrates her courage and cunning. Her response to the soldiers illustrates the risks she is willing to take for the sake of Israel’s cause. Rahab’s actions reveal her quick thinking and her willingness to defy authority to protect the spies.
This verse also illustrates Rahab’s role as a protector of the spies, showcasing her crucial part in Israel’s mission. Her actions set the stage for the dramatic events that follow and underline her importance in the biblical narrative.
4. Joshua 2:6
“But she had brought them up to the roof and hid them with the stalks of flax that she had laid in order on the roof.”
Rahab’s hiding of the spies on her roof, concealed among flax stalks, reveals her resourcefulness and bravery. The choice to use her roof as a hiding place illustrates her quick thinking in protecting the spies. This strategic decision helps ensure the spies’ safety from discovery.
The act of hiding the spies under flax stalks also reflects Rahab’s commitment to their protection and her significant role in the success of the espionage mission. Her actions are a pivotal point in the narrative, demonstrating her courage and ingenuity.
5. Joshua 2:8
“Before the men lay down, she came up to them on the roof.”
Rahab’s approach to the spies on the roof before they lay down shows her proactive role in their safety. Her decision to meet with them privately underscores her dedication and willingness to assist them despite the risks. This moment reveals her strategic thinking and commitment to their mission.
The encounter on the roof highlights Rahab’s pivotal role in the unfolding events. Her actions here set the stage for the crucial dialogue that will determine the future of Jericho and her own fate.
6. Joshua 2:9
“and said to the men, ‘I know that the Lord has given you the land, and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you.’”
Rahab’s declaration of faith in the Lord’s promise and her acknowledgment of Israel’s impending victory highlights her remarkable faith. Despite being a Canaanite, she recognizes the power of Israel’s God and the fear He has instilled in her people. Her statement reveals her insight and belief in the divine plan unfolding before her.
This verse underscores Rahab’s pivotal role in the narrative, as her faith and actions directly impact the Israelites’ mission. Her recognition of Israel’s impending victory serves as a testament to her profound understanding and bravery.
7. Joshua 2:12
“Now then, please swear to me by the Lord that, as I have dealt kindly with you, you also will deal kindly with my father’s house and give me a sure sign.”
Rahab’s request for assurance of protection for her family reveals her strategic thinking and concern for her loved ones. By asking for a sign of the spies’ commitment to her family’s safety, she secures a guarantee of her family’s survival amidst the forthcoming destruction. Her plea highlights her hope and trust in the spies’ promise.
The request for a “sure sign” is a critical moment that cements her role in the story. It underscores her role in the covenant of protection and the significant impact her actions have on her family’s fate.
8. Joshua 2:14
“And the men said to her, ‘Our life for yours even to death, if you do not tell this business of ours. Then when the Lord gives us the land, we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.’”
The spies’ promise to Rahab in exchange for her silence demonstrates their commitment to honouring her bravery and protection. Their assurance of safety in exchange for her discretion underscores the mutual trust established in their agreement. This pledge is pivotal in ensuring Rahab’s family’s survival and integrating her into Israel’s plan.
The spies’ commitment to deal “kindly and faithfully” with Rahab highlights the reciprocal nature of their agreement. It reinforces the significant role Rahab plays in the impending conquest and her family’s safety.
9. Joshua 2:18
“Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and you shall gather into your house your father and mother, your brothers, and all your father’s household.”
The instruction to tie a scarlet cord in Rahab’s window serves as a tangible sign of her family’s safety. This act of marking her home ensures that it will be spared during the invasion of Jericho. The scarlet cord becomes a symbol of protection and a testament to the spies’ promise.
Rahab’s compliance with this instruction reflects her trust in the spies and the divine promise. The cord signifies the physical and spiritual salvation of her household amid the forthcoming destruction.
10. Joshua 2:21
“And she said, ‘According to your words, so be it.’ Then she sent them away, and they departed. And she tied the scarlet cord in the window.”
Rahab’s affirmative response and immediate action to tie the scarlet cord illustrate her obedience and commitment to the spies’ promise. Her swift compliance with their instructions underscores her role in the plan and her trust in their words. This moment solidifies her role in the narrative and her family’s future safety.
The tying of the scarlet cord is a crucial act that signifies Rahab’s faith and adherence to the agreement. It serves as a visible sign of her family’s protection and the fulfillment of the spies’ pledge.
11. Joshua 6:17
“And the city and all that is within it shall be devoted to the Lord for destruction. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall live, because she hid the messengers whom we sent.”
This verse declares Rahab’s exemption from the destruction of Jericho due to her role in protecting the spies. Her actions are recognized as justifying her and her family’s salvation amidst the total annihilation of the city. This demonstrates the biblical principle that acts of faith and bravery can lead to divine favour.
Rahab’s survival, as promised, underscores the theme of redemption and the reward for protecting God’s servants. Her story highlights the idea that faithfulness and courage can lead to divine deliverance, even in the most dire circumstances.
12. Joshua 6:22
“But to the two men who had spied out the land, Joshua said, ‘Go into the prostitute’s house and bring out from there the woman and all who belong to her, as you swore to her.’”
Joshua’s command to rescue Rahab and her family, according to the spies’ promise, reflects the importance of honouring agreements. This act of faithfulness ensures that Rahab’s protection is upheld as per the prior commitment. It highlights the value of keeping promises and fulfilling divine instructions.
The retrieval of Rahab and her family from Jericho illustrates the fulfilment of the spies’ pledge and the reward for her faithfulness. This moment signifies the integration of Rahab and her family into the community of Israel and their preservation amidst destruction.
13. Joshua 6:25
“But Rahab the prostitute and her father’s household and all who belonged to her, Joshua saved alive. And she has lived in Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers whom Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.”
This verse confirms Rahab’s survival and integration into Israel as a result of her actions. Her transition from a Canaanite prostitute to a member of the Israelite community underscores the theme of redemption. It highlights how acts of bravery and faith can lead to new beginnings and inclusion in the covenant community.
Rahab’s continued presence in Israel serves as a testament to the fulfilment of the spies’ promise and the overarching theme of divine mercy and justice. Her story is a powerful example of how faith and courage are rewarded.
14. Matthew 1:5
“And Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse,”
Rahab’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus through her son Boaz underscores her significant role in the biblical narrative. Her presence in the genealogy highlights the theme of redemption and the inclusion of outsiders in God’s plan. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and divine favour.
Her mention in this lineage reflects the integration of her faithfulness into the larger story of salvation. Rahab’s story exemplifies how individuals from humble or unconventional backgrounds can play crucial roles in God’s redemptive plan.
15. Hebrews 11:31
“By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.”
This verse in Hebrews highlights Rahab’s faith as a key reason for her salvation. Her act of welcoming the spies is commended as an act of faith, distinguishing her from those who perished due to disobedience. It underscores the New Testament recognition of her actions as exemplary faith.
Rahab’s inclusion in the “Hall of Faith” demonstrates the biblical principle that faith can lead to salvation and divine favour. Her story serves as an inspiration and reminder of the transformative power of faith and the rewards it brings.
16. James 2:25
“And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?”
James acknowledges Rahab’s justification through her actions, which aligns with the theme of faith and works. Her decision to protect and aid the spies is highlighted as an act of righteousness that contributed to her justification. This reinforces the notion that faith is evidenced through deeds.
Rahab’s actions are presented as a model of how faith is demonstrated through practical works. Her story illustrates the integration of faith and action, emphasizing the importance of both in the biblical understanding of righteousness.
17. Joshua 6:23
“So the young men who had been spies went in and brought out Rahab and her father and mother and brothers and all who belonged to her. And they brought all her relatives and put them outside the camp of Israel.”
This verse details the fulfilment of the spies’ promise to Rahab, rescuing her and her family from the destruction of Jericho. The act of bringing Rahab’s family to safety underscores the importance of honouring promises and the reward for Rahab’s bravery. It highlights the practical application of faithfulness and the realization of divine promises.
The relocation of Rahab and her family to the outside of the Israelite camp marks a significant moment in their transition from Canaanite to Israelite status. It represents the inclusion of Rahab and her family into the covenant community, symbolizing redemption and new beginnings.
18. Matthew 1:5
“And Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse,”
Rahab’s mention in the genealogy of Jesus underscores her importance in the broader narrative of redemption. Her role as the mother of Boaz connects her to the line of David and, ultimately, to Jesus. This inclusion highlights the transformative nature of divine grace and the integration of unlikely individuals into the lineage of the Messiah.
Her presence in the genealogy demonstrates the biblical theme of redemption and the inclusion of individuals from diverse backgrounds into God’s redemptive plan. Rahab’s story serves as a powerful testament to the scope of God’s grace.
19. Joshua 2:17
“The men said to her, ‘We will be guiltless with respect to this oath of yours that you have made us swear.’”
The spies’ declaration of their commitment to uphold their promise to Rahab reflects the importance of honouring agreements and the reliability of their word. This reassurance signifies the mutual trust established between Rahab and the spies. It underscores the significance of Rahab’s actions and her role in the unfolding events.
The promise of being “guiltless” emphasizes the spies’ dedication to fulfilling their part of the agreement. This moment solidifies Rahab’s place in the narrative and reinforces the theme of faithfulness and trust in divine and human commitments.
20. Joshua 6:25
“But Rahab the prostitute and her father’s household and all who belonged to her, Joshua saved alive. And she has lived in Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers whom Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.”
This verse confirms Rahab’s salvation and continued presence in Israel due to her actions. Her survival amid the destruction of Jericho highlights the reward for her faith and bravery. Her story is a testament to the fulfilment of divine promises and the integration of individuals from different backgrounds into the community of Israel.
Rahab’s continued life in Israel serves as a symbol of redemption and divine favour. Her inclusion in the community illustrates the transformative power of faith and the fulfilment of the promises made to her.
21. Hebrews 11:31
“By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.”
In this New Testament reflection, Rahab’s faith is highlighted as the key to her salvation. Her act of welcoming the spies is recognized as a significant demonstration of faith, distinguishing her from those who were disobedient. This verse underscores the principle that faith leads to salvation and divine favour.
Rahab’s story is used as an example of how faith can result in deliverance and inclusion in God’s plan. Her inclusion in Hebrews’ “Hall of Faith” serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the power of faith in achieving redemption.
22. James 2:25
“And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?”
James highlights Rahab’s justification through her actions, aligning with the biblical view of faith and works. Her protection of the spies is presented as an example of righteous deeds that reflect her faith. This underscores the importance of both faith and works in the process of justification.
Rahab’s story illustrates the practical application of faith through actions. Her justification by works demonstrates the integration of faith and deeds in the biblical understanding of righteousness.
23. Joshua 6:22
“But to the two men who had spied out the land, Joshua said, ‘Go into the prostitute’s house and bring out from there the woman and all who belong to her, as you swore to her.’”
Joshua’s command to rescue Rahab and her family highlights the importance of honouring promises and fulfilling agreements. This act of retrieval ensures that the spies’ pledge to Rahab is kept, underscoring the theme of faithfulness and commitment. The rescue mission reflects the integration of Rahab and her family into the Israelite community.
The command to bring Rahab and her family out of Jericho marks a significant moment in the narrative. It signifies the fulfilment of the spies’ promise and the beginning of Rahab’s new life within the Israelite community.
24. Joshua 6:23
“So the young men who had been spies went in and brought out Rahab and her father and mother and brothers and all who belonged to her. And they brought all her relatives and put them outside the camp of Israel.”
This verse details the fulfilment of the spies’ promise to Rahab, rescuing her and her family from Jericho. The act of relocating them outside the camp signifies their transition from Canaanite to Israelite status. It highlights the importance of keeping promises and the integration of Rahab’s family into the community.
The relocation also serves as a symbol of redemption and new beginnings for Rahab and her family. Their safe extraction from Jericho illustrates the reward for Rahab’s bravery and faithfulness.
25. Matthew 1:5
“And Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse,”
Rahab’s mention in the genealogy of Jesus emphasises her significant role in the broader narrative of salvation. Her inclusion in the lineage of David and Jesus highlights the theme of redemption and the integration of outsiders into God’s plan. This genealogy underscores the transformative nature of divine grace and favour.
Rahab’s role in the genealogy of Jesus reflects the biblical principle that faith and obedience can lead to significant blessings and inclusion in God’s redemptive plan. Her story serves as a powerful example of God’s grace and redemption.
26. Joshua 6:25
“But Rahab the prostitute and her father’s household and all who belonged to her, Joshua saved alive. And she has lived in Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers whom Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.”
This verse confirms Rahab’s survival and integration into the Israelite community due to her actions. Her continued life in Israel illustrates the fulfilment of divine promises and the reward for her bravery. Rahab’s story highlights the theme of redemption and the transformative power of faith and courage.
The fact that Rahab lived “to this day” serves as a testament to the enduring nature of God’s promises and the impact of her faithfulness. Her inclusion in Israel underscores the biblical principle of divine grace and favour.
27. Hebrews 11:31
“By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.”
Hebrews commends Rahab for her faith and the role it played in her salvation. Her welcoming of the spies is recognized as an act of faith that distinguished her from those who were disobedient. This verse reinforces the principle that faith is essential for salvation and divine favour.
Rahab’s inclusion in the “Hall of Faith” demonstrates the significance of her actions and the power of faith in achieving redemption. Her story serves as a reminder of the rewards of faith and obedience.
28. James 2:25
“And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?”
James highlights Rahab’s justification through her works, which aligns with the biblical teachings on faith and deeds. Her protection of the spies is presented as an example of righteous action that reflects her faith. This verse underscores the integration of faith and works in the process of justification.
Rahab’s story exemplifies how faith is demonstrated through practical actions. Her justification by works reinforces the biblical understanding of righteousness and the importance of both faith and deeds.
29. Joshua 6:22
“But to the two men who had spied out the land, Joshua said, ‘Go into the prostitute’s house and bring out from there the woman and all who belong to her, as you swore to her.’”
Joshua’s command to rescue Rahab and her family underscores the importance of fulfilling promises and keeping agreements. This action ensures that the spies’ pledge to Rahab is honoured, highlighting the theme of faithfulness and integrity. The rescue operation marks a significant moment in Rahab’s transition to a new life.
The command reflects the integration of Rahab and her family into the Israelite community and the fulfilment of divine promises. It signifies a new beginning for Rahab and her family, demonstrating the reward for their faithfulness.
30. Joshua 6:23
“So the young men who had been spies went in and brought out Rahab and her father and mother and brothers and all who belonged to her. And they brought all her relatives and put them outside the camp of Israel.”
This verse details the fulfillment of the spies’ promise to rescue Rahab and her family from Jericho. The act of placing them outside the Israelite camp represents their transition from destruction to safety and inclusion. It highlights the importance of keeping promises and the theme of redemption.
The relocation of Rahab and her family underscores the impact of their faith and bravery. Their safe extraction and integration into the community of Israel illustrate the fulfilment of divine promises and the transformative power of faith.
Conclusion
In summary, the Bible verses about Rahab reveal a compelling story of redemption and faith. Her life demonstrates how God’s grace reaches beyond past mistakes or societal status. Rahab’s bravery and her place in the lineage of Jesus illustrate that God’s plans can be fulfilled through anyone willing to have faith.
For Christians, her story is an encouragement to accept the transformative power of faith and acknowledge that God often chooses unexpected people to accomplish His purposes. Rahab’s example showcases the vastness of God’s grace and the remarkable ways He can work in our lives.