Rahab Protects the Spies
Joshua 2:1-24
Jos.2.1 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וישלח: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהושע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מן: PREP
- השטים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- שנים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- אנשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- מרגלים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- חרש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- לכו: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,pl
- ראו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ואת: CONJ
- יריחו: NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- וילכו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- זונה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ושמה: CONJ+ADV,loc
- רחב: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- וישכבו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- שמה: ADV
Parallels
- Numbers 13:1–3 (structural): Moses sends men to spy out the land of Canaan — a parallel reconnaissance mission and the model for sending scouts into the land.
- Deuteronomy 1:22–23 (thematic): The people's earlier request to send spies into Canaan and the narrative context for reconnaissance missions among the Israelites.
- Joshua 6:22–25 (structural): The later outcome of the Rahab episode: after Jericho's fall Rahab is spared because she hid the spies — direct continuation and consequence of Joshua 2:1–21.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): The NT cites Rahab’s faith in hiding the spies as exemplary faith, alluding to the events recorded in Joshua 2.
- James 2:25 (allusion): James cites Rahab as an example of faith demonstrated by works, directly referencing her actions in sheltering the spies.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joshua son of Nun secretly sent from Shittim two men as spies, saying, "Go, view the land and Jericho." They went and came to the house of a prostitute whose name was Rahab, and lodged there.
- And Joshua son of Nun secretly sent from Shittim two men as spies, saying, "Go, view the land and Jericho." They went and came into the house of a prostitute whose name was Rahab, and lodged there.
Jos.2.2 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- למלך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יריחו: NOUN,m,sg,cstr
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- הנה: PART
- אנשים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- הנה: PART
- הלילה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- מבני: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,cs
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחפר: PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- Numbers 13:2 (verbal): Moses commands the sending of men to 'spy out' the land of Canaan — a close verbal and thematic precedent for sending scouts to reconnoiter the land.
- Judges 1:22 (verbal): The house of Joseph 'sent men to spy out' Bethel (same verb and action), showing a recurring formula of sending scouts in conquest narratives.
- Judges 18:2 (thematic): The Danites send five men to spy out Laish — a later tribal reconnaissance episode that parallels Joshua's scouting mission in purpose and outcome.
- Joshua 2:1 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel/continuation: Joshua secretly sends two men from Shittim to spy on Jericho, directly framing the report reported in Josh 2:2.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the king of Jericho was told, "Behold, men have come here tonight from the people of Israel to search out the land."
- And it was told to the king of Jericho, "Behold, men have come here tonight from the children of Israel to search out the land."
Jos.2.3 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וישלח: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- מלך: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- יריחו: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- רחב: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- הוציאי: VERB,hiphil,impv,2,f,sg
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- הבאים: PART,qal,ptcp,masc,pl,def
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לביתך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,cs+PRON,2,f,sg
- כי: CONJ
- לחפר: VERB,qal,inf
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Joshua 2:1 (structural): Contextual parallel: the preceding verse records Joshua sending two spies into Jericho—the agents whose presence provokes the king's demand in 2:3.
- Numbers 13:17 (thematic): Thematically similar: Moses sends men to 'spy out' the land of Canaan—both passages involve reconnaissance missions to survey the land before conquest.
- Judges 19:22 (verbal): Verbal and situational parallel: the men of the city demand 'Bring out the man' who is in the house, echoing the formula and hostile intent found in Jericho's demand to Rahab.
- Genesis 19:8 (thematic): Thematically related: citizens of a city (Sodom) demand that strangers/visitors be brought out for abuse—parallels the city's claim on outsiders and the need for the householder's protection.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then the king of Jericho sent to Rahab, saying, "Bring out the men who have come to you, who have entered your house, for they have come to search out all the land."
- Then the king of Jericho sent to Rahab, saying, "Bring out the men who have come to you, who entered your house, for they have come to search out all the land."
Jos.2.4 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותקח: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- האשה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- את: PRT,acc
- שני: NUM,m,pl,construct
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ותצפנו: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- ותאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- כן: ADV
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ולא: CONJ
- ידעתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,?,sg
- מאין: ADV,interrog
- המה: PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Joshua 6:22-25 (structural): Narrative resolution of the same episode: Rahab and her family are spared because she hid the Israelite spies.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): New Testament reference to Rahab’s action as an act of faith in sheltering the spies (explicitly recalls the episode).
- James 2:25 (quotation): Uses Rahab’s reception and protection of the messengers to illustrate justification by works, directly citing the incident.
- Exodus 1:15-21 (thematic): Parallel motif of women deceiving authorities to protect lives—Hebrew midwives lie to Pharaoh to save newborns, like Rahab’s deception to protect the spies.
- 1 Samuel 19:11-12 (thematic): Michal hides and helps David escape by deception (letting him down through a window and misleading pursuers), a close parallel of a woman concealing and protecting fugitives.
Alternative generated candidates
- But the woman took the two men and hid them, and she said, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know from where they were."
- But the woman took the two men and hid them, and she said, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from.
Jos.2.5 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- השער: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לסגור: VERB,qal,inf
- בחשך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- והאנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- יצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לא: PART_NEG
- ידעתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,?,sg
- אנה: ADV,interrog
- הלכו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- רדפו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- מהר: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- אחריהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- תשיגום: VERB,qal,impf,3,?,pl
Parallels
- Numbers 13:21-23 (thematic): The reconnaissance of Canaan and the spies’ visit to Jericho—background narrative to Joshua 2’s spies and their covert movements into and out of the city.
- Joshua 9:3-15 (thematic): Another episode of deception and survival in the conquest period (the Gibeonites deceive Israel to preserve their lives), paralleling Rahab’s concealment and misleading of the king’s men to save the spies.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): New Testament reference to Rahab’s action—commends her faith for protecting the spies and keeping them from death, directly alluding to the events narrated in Joshua 2.
- James 2:25 (quotation): Direct New Testament citation of Rahab’s deed—states that she received the messengers and sent them out another way, echoing Joshua 2:5–6 about hiding and enabling the spies’ escape.
- Matthew 1:5 (allusion): Genealogical mention of Rahab in the genealogy of Jesus—later biblical recognition of Rahab’s role in Israel’s story, pointing readers back to her actions in Joshua 2.
Alternative generated candidates
- And it came about at twilight, when the gate was being shut, that the men went out; I do not know where the men went. Pursue quickly after them—for you may overtake them."
- And it came about that the gate was being shut at dark, when the men went out; I do not know where the men went. After them hastily, and you will overtake them."
Jos.2.6 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והיא: CONJ+PRON,3,f,sg
- העלתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- הגגה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ותטמנם: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- בפשתי: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,abs
- העץ: NOUN,m,sg,def
- הערכות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- לה: PREP+PRON,3,f,sg
- על: PREP
- הגג: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): Direct New Testament reference to Rahab’s action in hiding the spies; the author cites her faith and the episode from Joshua 2 as exemplary.
- James 2:25 (allusion): James cites Rahab’s reception and protection of the spies as an example of faith shown through works, alluding to the same hiding/escape episode.
- 1 Samuel 19:11-12 (thematic): Michal helps David escape by letting him down through a window and deceiving Saul — a parallel instance of secret concealment/escape carried out within a house.
- Mark 2:4 (cf. Luke 5:19) (thematic): Men remove a roof and lower a paralytic into Jesus’ presence; the roof functions as an access point and setting for clandestine action/transport, echoing Rahab’s use of her roof for concealment.
- 2 Kings 4:8-10 (structural): The Shunammite prepares a small upper chamber on her roof for Elisha; parallels the motif of a roof-room used as lodging/temporary shelter (Rahab’s hiding place on the roof).
Alternative generated candidates
- But she had brought them up to the roof and hidden them among the stalks of flax that she had laid in order on the roof.
- But she had brought them up to the roof and hid them among the stalks of flax that she had laid in order on the roof.
Jos.2.7 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והאנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- רדפו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- אחריהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- דרך: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הירדן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- על: PREP
- המעברות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- והשער: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- סגרו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- אחרי: PREP
- כאשר: CONJ
- יצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- הרדפים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- אחריהם: PREP,3,m,pl
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 19:11-12 (verbal): Both passages depict fugitives pursued by royal messengers and a household member deceiving the pursuers by letting the fugitive escape and then shutting/closing access (Michal lets David down and shuts the door).
- 1 Samuel 30:8-10 (thematic): Both describe a rapid pursuit after raiders/spies across the countryside to recover people or escape — a short, determined chase to overtake those who fled.
- 2 Samuel 17:22 (thematic): David’s flight and crossing toward/near the Jordan while pursued by enemies parallels the motif of fleeing toward the Jordan/fords under pursuit.
- Matthew 25:10 (structural): The image of people departing and a door/gate being shut after they leave echoes the structural motif of movement away from a place followed by the closing of the gate.
- Nehemiah 4:21-23 (thematic): Both passages involve vigilance at urban access points (gates) in the face of hostile action — defenders/watchers and the closing or guarding of gates to control pursuit or entry.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the men who pursued went out after them by the way of the Jordan as far as the fords; and the gate was shut, when the pursuers had gone out to go in after them.
- Then the pursuers went out by the road on the other side of the Jordan at the fords; and as soon as the pursuers had gone out, the gate was shut.
Jos.2.8 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והמה: PRON,3,m,pl
- טרם: ADV
- ישכבון: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- והיא: CONJ+PRON,3,f,sg
- עלתה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- עליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- על: PREP
- הגג: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Mark 2:4 (structural): The crowd removes part of the roof to lower the paralytic into the house — parallels Joshua 2:8 in using the roof as an alternate point of entry and decisive locus for a clandestine encounter.
- 2 Samuel 11:2 (thematic): David sees Bathsheba from his roof — the roof functions as a vantage point and a setting for an unexpected, consequential encounter, similar to Rahab bringing the spies to her roof.
- Proverbs 21:9 (thematic): ‘Better to live on a corner of the roof…’ — the proverb reflects the roof as a recognized place to sleep or take refuge, echoing Joshua 2:8’s depiction of the roof as a sleeping/hiding place.
- Acts 10:9 (thematic): Peter goes up on the housetop and receives a vision that leads to meeting Cornelius — the rooftop again serves as the setting for a pivotal, revelatory encounter with outsiders.
Alternative generated candidates
- Before they lay down, she went up to them on the roof
- Now before the men lay down, she came up to them on the roof
Jos.2.9 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- אל: NEG
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ידעתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,?,sg
- כי: CONJ
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- וכי: CONJ
- נפלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- אימתכם: NOUN,f,sg,suff,2,pl
- עלינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- וכי: CONJ
- נמגו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- כל: DET
- ישבי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- מפניכם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+SUF,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 4:39 (thematic): Both passages express recognition of YHWH's sovereignty and his giving of the land—the claim that God is LORD of heaven and earth parallels Rahab's confession that the LORD has given the land to Israel.
- Numbers 14:9 (thematic): Both concern the fear inspired by Israel among the land's inhabitants; Numbers urges Israel not to fear because the LORD is with them, while Rahab observes that the fear of Israel has fallen on the people.
- Exodus 23:27 (verbal): God promises to send 'terror' or dread before Israel to drive out the Canaanite peoples—language and theme echo Rahab's report that fear has fallen and the inhabitants melt away.
- Joshua 6:25 (structural): Narrative fulfillment and consequence: Rahab is spared after Jericho's fall, confirming her acknowledgment that the LORD gave the city to Israel and that its inhabitants were overcome by fear.
Alternative generated candidates
- and said to the men, "I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that the dread of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you.
- and said to the men, "I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that the terror of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land have melted away before you.
Jos.2.10 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- שמענו: VERB,qal,perf,1,c,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אשר: PRON,rel
- הוביש: VERB,hiph,perf,3,ms
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- את: PRT,acc
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- ים: NOUN,m,sg,cs
- סוף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מפניכם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+SUF,2,m,pl
- בצאתכם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,const+PRON,2,m,pl
- ממצרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ואשר: CONJ+PRON,rel
- עשיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- לשני: PREP+NUM,card,dual,m
- מלכי: NOUN,pl,m,cons
- האמרי: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בעבר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הירדן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לסיחן: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg
- ולעוג: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,prop,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- החרמתם: VERB,hip,perf,2,_,pl
- אותם: PRON,3,m,pl,obj
Parallels
- Exodus 14:21-31 (quotation): The primary account of the LORD drying up the Sea (Red Sea/Sea of Reeds) when Israel left Egypt — the precise miracle Rahab cites as having been done 'before you when you came out of Egypt.'
- Joshua 4:23-24 (structural): Later Joshua explicitly links the Red Sea miracle and the conquest of the Amorite kings with Israel's crossing of the Jordan and the purpose of the memorial stones — same tradition invoked here as evidence of Israel's divine aid.
- Deuteronomy 2:32-37 (verbal): Narrative account of Israel's victory over Sihon, king of the Amorites, which corresponds to Rahab's mention of the conquest of the two Amorite kings beyond the Jordan.
- Deuteronomy 3:1-11 (verbal): Narrative account of the defeat of Og king of Bashan (the other Amorite king Rahab names), including the annihilation of his cities and people — parallels the reference to Og in Joshua 2:10.
- Psalm 106:7-12 (thematic): A poetic recollection of Israel's history that recounts their deliverance from Egypt and the striking down of Pharaoh and the sea — thematically echoes the Red Sea deliverance Rahab mentions as known throughout Canaan.
Alternative generated candidates
- For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Sea of Reeds before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites beyond the Jordan—to Sihon and to Og, whom you utterly destroyed.
- For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Reed Sea before you when you came out from Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites beyond the Jordan—Sihon and Og—which you utterly destroyed.
Jos.2.11 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ונשמע: VERB,qal,perf,1,pl
- וימס: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לבבנו: NOUN,m,sg,poss
- ולא: CONJ
- קמה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- עוד: ADV
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- באיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg
- מפניכם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+SUF,2,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אלהיכם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- בשמים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ממעל: ADV
- ועל: CONJ+PREP
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- מתחת: PREP
Parallels
- Deuteronomy 4:39 (verbal): Uses the same theological formula: acknowledge that YHWH is God 'in heaven above and on the earth beneath' (direct verbal/thematic parallel affirming God's exclusive sovereignty).
- Joshua 2:9-10 (structural): Immediate context: Rahab recounts the reports of Israel's deeds (Red Sea, conquest), which caused fear and the melting of hearts—this verse is the conclusion of that report.
- Joshua 5:1 (verbal): A later summary formula: when the kings heard about Israel 'their hearts melted and no spirit remained'—repeats the same motif of enemy fear in response to Israel and YHWH's acts.
- Exodus 15:14-16 (thematic): After the Exodus song, the nations are said to melt with fear at YHWH's deeds; thematically parallels the reaction of terror and the recognition of YHWH's power described in Josh 2:11.
- Matthew 28:18 (thematic): Jesus' claim 'all authority in heaven and on earth' echoes the theme of divine sovereignty over heaven and earth found in Josh 2:11 (theological parallel in scope of God's rule).
Alternative generated candidates
- And when we heard it our hearts melted and there was no spirit left in any man because of you; for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath.
- And when we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you; for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.
Jos.2.12 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- השבעו: VERB,hiph,impv,2,m,pl
- נא: PART
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ביהוה: PREP+PN,sg
- כי: CONJ
- עשיתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,sg
- עמכם: PREP+PRON,2,pl
- חסד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ועשיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- גם: ADV
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- עם: PREP
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- חסד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ונתתם: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- אות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אמת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.21:22-24 (verbal): Abraham asks Abimelech to swear by God to show kindness to him and his offspring — similar language and motif of securing an oath to guarantee chesed toward a household.
- 1 Sam.20:14-17 (verbal): Jonathan and David covenant that David will show steadfast kindness to Jonathan’s house; includes mutual oath and the promise to protect a family line (chesed toward a household).
- 2 Sam.9:1-13 (thematic): David’s deliberate showing of kindness to Jonathan’s surviving house for Jonathan’s sake parallels Rahab’s request for protection of her family in return for her kindness to Israel’s spies (chesed extended to a household).
- Judg.6:17-22 (thematic): Gideon’s request for a sign to confirm God’s promise mirrors Rahab’s request for a sure sign (אות) that her family will be spared — both seek tangible assurance of an agreement.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now therefore swear to me by the LORD, for I have dealt kindly with you; give me also a sure sign and deal kindly with me in your kindness—put a kindness and truth upon me.
- Now therefore swear to me by the LORD, for I have dealt kindly with you. Deal also kindly and truly with my father's house, and give me a sure sign.
Jos.2.13 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והחיתם: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- ואת: CONJ
- אמי: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- אחי: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- ואת: CONJ
- אחיותי: NOUN,f,pl,abs,1,sg
- ואת: CONJ
- כל: DET
- אשר: PRON,rel
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- והצלתם: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- נפשתינו: NOUN,f,pl,abs,1,pl
- ממות: PREP,NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Joshua 6:25 (structural): Direct fulfillment of Rahab’s plea — Joshua spares Rahab, her father’s household, and all she had, delivering them from death as she requested.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): NT reference to Rahab’s faith and deliverance; alludes to her protecting the spies and being saved rather than perish with the disobedient.
- Exodus 12:13 (thematic): The Passover motif of sparing an entire household from death by recognizing a saving sign (blood) parallels Rahab’s request that her household be preserved — echoed later by the scarlet cord sign.
- Genesis 19:15–26 (thematic): Rescue of Lot and his family from impending destruction parallels the plea to save family members from death; also shows that not all household members are always spared (Lot’s wife is lost).
Alternative generated candidates
- And save, I pray you, my father, my mother, my brothers, my sisters, and all who belong to them, and deliver our lives from death.
- Save my father, my mother, my brothers, my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death."
Jos.2.14 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- לה: PREP+PRON,3,f,sg
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- נפשנו: NOUN,f,sg,prsuf_1pl
- תחתיכם: PREP+PRON,2,m,pl
- למות: VERB,qal,inf
- אם: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- תגידו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- דברנו: NOUN,m,sg,prsuf_1pl
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- והיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- בתת: PREP+VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ועשינו: VERB,qal,perf,1,pl
- עמך: NOUN,m,sg,suff-2m
- חסד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואמת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Josh.2.12-13 (verbal): Immediate context: Rahab asks for protection for herself and family and the spies respond with an oath of safety and a pledge to show her 'kindness and faithfulness'—same promise-language and negotiation.
- Josh.6.22-25 (quotation): Narrative fulfillment: Joshua honors the spies' promise and spares Rahab and her household; the account echoes the covenantal protection the spies pledged and the scarlet cord sign.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): NT reference that commends Rahab's faith for hiding the spies; interprets her actions (and the resulting deliverance) as an act of saving faith connected to the episode.
- James 2:25 (thematic): Uses Rahab as an exemplar of faith demonstrated by works—connects her pledge and protective action with the theme of faith authenticated by deeds, reflecting the moral implication of the spies' promise.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the men said to her, "Our life for yours—if you do not tell this business of ours, then when the LORD has given us the land we will deal kindly and faithfully with you."
- The men said to her, "Our lives for yours—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."
Jos.2.15 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותורדם: VERB,hif,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg
- בחבל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בעד: PREP
- החלון: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כי: CONJ
- ביתה: NOUN,m,sg,suff-3,f,sg
- בקיר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- החומה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ובחומה: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- היא: PRON,dem,3,f,sg
- יושבת: VERB,qal,ptc,.,f,sg
Parallels
- Josh.2.18 (verbal): Same episode — Rahab’s window and the agreement (scarlet cord) that identifies her house; continues the motif of the window as the spies’ exit/entry point.
- Josh.6.25 (structural): Outcome of the Rahab episode in Joshua’s conquest — Rahab and her household are spared, linking her protection of the spies to later covenantal preservation.
- Heb.11.31 (allusion): New Testament reflection on Rahab’s faith in hiding the spies; cites her deed as an example of faith’s effect, alluding to the rescue through her house/window.
- James 2.25 (thematic): Uses Rahab’s reception and sending away of the spies to illustrate faith proven by works — thematic echo of the spies’ concealment and escape.
- Acts 9.25 (verbal): Parallel motif of escape by lowering through an opening in a city wall (Paul lowered in a basket out of Damascus) — similar method of clandestine departure through a wall opening.
Alternative generated candidates
- So she let them down by a rope through the window, for her house was on the city wall and she dwelt in the wall.
- So she let them down by a rope through the window, for her house was built into the city wall and she dwelt on the wall.
Jos.2.16 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ההרה: ADJ,f,sg
- לכו: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,pl
- פן: CONJ
- יפגעו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- בכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- הרדפים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ונחבתם: VERB,niphal,impf,2,m,pl
- שמה: ADV
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- ימים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עד: PREP
- שוב: ADV
- הרדפים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ואחר: CONJ
- תלכו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- לדרככם: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,abs,2mp
Parallels
- 1 Samuel 23:14-15 (thematic): David hides in strongholds and on a mountain in the wilderness to escape Saul’s pursuing men — parallels Rahab’s instruction to go to the hills and lie hidden from the pursuers.
- 1 Samuel 24:3-4 (thematic): Saul pursues David into the wilderness and David hides in a cave — a similar scene of fleeing and concealment from an active pursuer.
- 1 Kings 17:3-4 (thematic): God tells Elijah to hide by the brook Cherith to escape danger; like Rahab’s counsel, this involves directed concealment as protection from enemies.
- Psalm 27:5 (thematic): “For in the day of trouble he will hide me…” — the image of being hidden/protected in a time of pursuit or danger echoes Rahab’s provision of refuge until the threat passes.
- Matthew 10:23 (structural): Jesus instructs his disciples to flee to another town when persecuted and resume their mission later — a comparable pragmatic counsel to avoid immediate danger and continue afterward.
Alternative generated candidates
- Then she said to them, "Go to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; hide there three days until the pursuers return, and afterward you may go your way."
- Then she said to them, "Go to the hill country, lest the pursuers meet you; hide there three days until the pursuers return, and afterward you may go on your way."
Jos.2.17 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- אליה: PREP+PRON,3,f,sg
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- נקים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- אנחנו: PRON,1,pl
- משבעתך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,f,sg
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- השבעתנו: VERB,hiph,perf,2,f,sg,oc=1,pl
Parallels
- Josh.2.12-13 (verbal): Immediate context — Rahab asks the spies to swear to spare her and her household, and the spies agree; the language of oath and mutual pledging is contiguous with v.17.
- Josh.6.22-25 (structural): Narrative fulfillment — when Jericho falls the spies keep their oath and bring out Rahab and her family, showing the promise in ch.2 was honored.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): New Testament reflection on Rahab — cites her faith and protection of the spies as the basis for her being remembered among the faithful, alluding to the episode and its moral significance.
- James 2:25 (allusion): Uses Rahab’s sheltering of the spies as an example of faith shown through works, directly drawing on the same incident of protection and the oath given to her.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the men said to her, "We will be guiltless of this oath of yours which you have made us swear.
- And the men said to her, "Our oath shall be a sure sign to us.
Jos.2.18 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- הנה: PART
- אנחנו: PRON,1,pl
- באים: VERB,qal,part,3,m,pl
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- את: PRT,acc
- תקות: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- חוט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- השני: ADJ,m,sg,def
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- תקשרי: VERB,qal,imp,2,f,sg
- בחלון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- הורדתנו: VERB,hiph,perf,2,f,sg
- בו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- ואת: CONJ
- אביך: NOUN,m,sg,suff+2ms
- ואת: CONJ
- אמך: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- ואת: CONJ
- אחיך: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- ואת: CONJ
- כל: DET
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביך: NOUN,m,sg,suff+2ms
- תאספי: VERB,qal,imp,2,f,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- הביתה: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Joshua 2:21 (verbal): Immediate narrative follow-up—Rahab actually lets the spies down by a rope through the window, echoing the instruction to bind the scarlet cord.
- Joshua 6:22-25 (quotation): Fulfillment account: the scarlet cord is used to identify Rahab’s house and she and her household are spared when Jericho is destroyed.
- Exodus 12:7,13,22 (structural): Passover precedent—household salvation marked by a visible sign on the house (blood on lintel/doorposts), a structural and theological parallel to the scarlet cord as a sign of protection.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): Later New Testament reflection on Rahab’s faith—praises her faith for sparing the spies and not perishing, thematically linked to the deliverance signified by the cord.
- James 2:25 (thematic): Emphasizes Rahab’s actions in receiving and aiding the spies; relates to the narrative where her cooperation (and the cord) results in salvation for her household.
Alternative generated candidates
- Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window by which you let us down; and you shall gather into your house your father, your mother, your brothers, and all your father's household.
- Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window by which you let us down; and gather into your house your father, your mother, your brothers, and all your father's household.
Jos.2.19 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- והיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- כל: DET
- אשר: PRON,rel
- יצא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מדלתי: PREP+NOUN,f,sg
- ביתך: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2ms
- החוצה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- דמו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss3ms
- בראשו: PREP,3,m,sg
- ואנחנו: CONJ+PRON,1,pl
- נקים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- יהיה: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אתך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- בבית: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- דמו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss3ms
- בראשנו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,pl
- אם: CONJ
- יד: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- תהיה: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,f,sg
- בו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Josh.6.22-25 (structural): Direct narrative fulfillment of the spies' promise: Rahab and all in her house are brought out and spared because she remained inside under the agreed sign (the scarlet cord).
- Matt.27.25 (verbal): Uses similar idiom of blood-as-responsibility—crowd accepts culpability for Jesus' death (‘His blood be on us and on our children’), an ironic reversal of Joshua’s formula about whose blood is 'on the head.'
- Exod.12.13 (thematic): Passover blood on the doorframes functions as a protective sign for those inside the house; thematically parallels the spies’ assurance that those who remain in Rahab’s house will be spared.
- Ezek.33.8-9 (thematic): Prophetic language about bearing responsibility for another’s life—if a watchman fails to warn the wicked, 'their blood' will be required at his hand—parallels the idea of culpability ('blood on your head/hand').
- Gen.9.5-6 (thematic): God’s declaration that He will 'require' human blood (life) echoes the juridical notion of blood as the measure of responsibility and the demand that blood be accounted for, akin to the 'blood on the head' formula.
Alternative generated candidates
- And it shall be that everyone who goes out of the doors of your house into the street his blood shall be upon his own head, and we will be guiltless; but if anyone is with you in the house his blood shall be on us.
- And it shall be that whoever goes out of the doors of your house into the street his blood shall be on his own head; and we will be innocent. But whoever is with you in the house, his blood shall be on our head if a hand be upon him.
Jos.2.20 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ואם: CONJ
- תגידי: VERB,qal,impf,2,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- דברנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss:1,pl
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- והיינו: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- נקים: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- משבעתך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs,poss:2,m,sg
- אשר: PRON,rel
- השבעתנו: VERB,hiph,perf,2,m,sg,obj:1,pl
Parallels
- Josh.2.12-14 (verbal): Immediate companion verses in the same episode: Rahab asks the spies to swear to her and her household, and the spies give their oath — the same promise/context as v.20.
- Josh.6.22-25 (structural): Narrative fulfillment: when Jericho falls, Joshua spares Rahab and her family in accordance with the oath sworn by the spies.
- 1 Sam.20.12-17 (thematic): Jonathan and David exchange mutual oaths/promises of protection for each other and their households — similar interpersonal oath made to secure safety for a family.
- Gen.21.27-32 (verbal): Abraham and Abimelech conclude a covenant and swear to one another regarding rights and protection — another example of a sworn agreement resolving security between parties.
Alternative generated candidates
- But if you disclose this our business, then we shall be free from the oath which you have made us swear.
- And if you tell this business of ours, then we shall be guiltless of your oath which you have made us swear."
Jos.2.21 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ותאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- כדבריכם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs,2,m,pl
- כן: ADV
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- ותשלחם: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- וילכו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ותקשר: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- תקות: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- השני: ADJ,m,sg,def
- בחלון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Joshua 6:22–25 (structural): Same narrative repeated later: the spies reiterate Rahab’s instruction to tie the scarlet cord and she and her household are spared when Jericho falls.
- Exodus 12:7,13,22–23 (thematic): Passover blood on doorposts as a protective sign that causes the destroyer to pass over—parallel motif of a visible sign applied to a dwelling to secure divine protection.
- Ezekiel 9:4 (thematic): God commands a mark to be set on the foreheads of the righteous to spare them from coming judgment—analogous idea of marking persons/households to distinguish and protect them.
- Hebrews 11:31 (allusion): The NT cites Rahab as an example of faith that saved her; connects her action of protecting and identifying herself with saving faith.
- James 2:25 (allusion): James uses Rahab’s harboring of the spies and sending them off as an example of faith shown in works—directly alludes to the Rahab episode and its salvific outcome.
Alternative generated candidates
- And she said, "According to your words, so be it." She sent them away, and they departed; and she bound the scarlet cord in the window.
- She said, "It shall be as you have said." So she sent them away, and they departed; and she tied the scarlet cord in the window.
Jos.2.22 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וילכו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ההרה: ADJ,f,sg
- וישבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- שם: ADV
- שלשת: NUM,m,pl,abs
- ימים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- עד: PREP
- שבו: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,pl
- הרדפים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ויבקשו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- הרדפים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הדרך: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ולא: CONJ
- מצאו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- 1 Sam.19:11-17 (verbal): Michal hides David and lets him escape through a window; Saul’s messengers search the house but do not find him—parallel situation of fugitives concealed while pursuers search.
- Josh.6:22-23 (structural): Immediate narrative resolution: Joshua spares Rahab and her household because she hid the spies—directly connected to the hiding and evasion described in 2:22.
- Heb.11:31 (allusion): New Testament reference to Rahab receiving the spies 'in peace' as an act of faith—the passage alludes to the same event of concealment and protection.
- James 2:25 (allusion): James cites Rahab’s sheltering of the spies as an example of faith demonstrated by works, directly commenting on the action behind the spies’ concealment.
- Judg.3:24-26 (thematic): After killing Eglon Ehud slips away while the conspirators are unaware; like Joshua 2:22 this depicts successful escape/concealment from pursuers who search but fail to find the fugitives.
Alternative generated candidates
- They went and came to the mountain and remained there three days until the pursuers returned; and the pursuers sought through all the road, but found them not.
- They went and came to the hill and remained there three days until the pursuers returned; and the pursuers sought them throughout the road but found them not.
Jos.2.23 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- וישבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- שני: NUM,m,pl,construct
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- וירדו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- מההר: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויעברו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- יהושע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויספרו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- המצאות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- אותם: PRON,3,m,pl,obj
Parallels
- Numbers 13:25-33 (verbal): Spies complete a reconnaissance, return to the leader (Moses) and report on what they saw—parallel motif and similar language of returning and reporting.
- Deuteronomy 1:22-25 (thematic): Israelites send representatives to scout the land and the scouts return with a report to Moses—an earlier legal-traditional parallel to Joshua’s spies reporting to their commander.
- Joshua 2:24 (verbal): Immediate narrative continuation: the two men’s report to Joshua is spelled out in the next verse, making this a direct textual parallel/continuation.
- Joshua 6:22-25 (structural): Later episode involving the same two spies and Rahab; provides narrative confirmation and consequence of their mission and report to Joshua.
Alternative generated candidates
- So the two men returned, descended from the mountain, passed over, and came to Joshua son of Nun; and they told him all that had happened to them.
- So the two men returned, descended from the hill, crossed over, and came to Joshua son of Nun; and they told him all that had happened to them.
Jos.2.24 - Details
Translation
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- אל: NEG
- יהושע: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהוה: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- בידנו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,_,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- וגם: CONJ
- נמגו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,pl
- כל: DET
- ישבי: NOUN,m,pl,cons
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- מפנינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- Numbers 13:30 (thematic): Caleb's spy-report urging immediate occupation—both are spy testimonies asserting Israel can take the land.
- Numbers 14:9 (verbal): Urges not to fear the people of the land because their protection is removed—parallels the claim that the inhabitants 'melt away' before Israel.
- Deuteronomy 7:22 (verbal): Yahweh will deliver the nations and throw them into panic until destroyed—echoes Joshua's statement that the LORD gave the land and the inhabitants melted away.
- Exodus 23:27 (thematic): God will send terror and throw peoples into confusion so they turn their backs—parallel description of divine intervention enabling Israelic conquest.
- Judges 7:22 (thematic): God causes the enemy to panic and flee (Gideon's victory)—similar result to the inhabitants 'melting away' before Israel.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they said to Joshua, "Truly the LORD has given all the land into our hands; moreover all the inhabitants of the land melt away before us."
- And they said to Joshua, "Truly the LORD has given all the land into our hands; moreover, all the inhabitants of the land have melted away before us."
And Joshua son of Nun secretly sent from Shittim two men as scouts, saying, "Go, view the land and Jericho." So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and lodged there. And it was told to the king of Jericho, "Behold, men have come here tonight from the people of Israel to spy out the land."
Then the king of Jericho sent to Rahab, saying, "Bring out the men who have come to you, who have entered your house, for they have come to search out all the land." But the woman took the two men and hid them, and she said, "Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from." Now the gate was being shut as dusk fell, and the men went out; I do not know where the men went. The pursuers were rapidly behind them, for they would overtake them. And she had brought them up to the roof and hidden them among the stalks of flax that she had laid out on the roof. And the men who were pursuing them went out on the road to the Jordan to the fords; and as soon as the pursuers had gone out, the gate was shut behind them. But before they lay down, she went up to them on the roof
and said to the men, "I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that the terror of you has fallen upon us, so that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you.
For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan—Sihon and Og—whom you utterly destroyed. And when we heard it, our hearts melted; there was no more spirit left in any man because of you; for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above and on earth beneath. Now therefore swear to me by the LORD that, as I have dealt kindly with you, you also will deal kindly with the house of my father, and give me a sure sign.
Spare my father and my mother, my brothers and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death."
The men said to her, "Our life for yours—if you do not tell this business of ours. And it shall be, when the LORD gives us the land, that we will deal kindly and faithfully with you."
Then she let them down by a rope through the window, for her house was built into the city wall and she lived in the wall. And she said to them, "Go to the hill, lest the pursuers meet you; hide there three days until the pursuers return, and then you may go on your way."
The men said to her, "We shall be blameless concerning the oath that you have made us swear.
Behold, when we come into the land, you shall bind this scarlet cord in the window by which you let us down; and gather into your house your father, your mother, your brothers, and all your father's household. And it shall be that everyone who goes out of the doors of your house into the street his blood shall be on his own head; and we will be guiltless. And whoever is with you in the house, his blood shall be on our head if a hand is upon him. But if you tell this business of ours, then we will be released from the oath which you have made us swear. And she said, "According to your words, so be it." Then she sent them away, and they departed; and she bound the scarlet cord in the window.
They went and hid on the hill for three days until the pursuers returned; and the pursuers searched the roads but found them not. So the two men departed, descended from the hill, crossed over, and came to Joshua son of Nun, and told him all that had happened to them.
They said to Joshua, "Truly the LORD has given all the land into our hands; moreover all the inhabitants of the land melt away before us."