Joshua 2:17
And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear.
Joshua 2:17 (KJV)
Context
Joshua sent two spies to Jericho to learn about the city before Israel attacked it. The spies entered the house of Rahab, a woman of the city, and she hid them from the king’s men. In return, she asked them to swear an oath to spare her and her family. The spies agreed, and in this verse they answer her with a promise.
Meaning
The men said to Rahab, “We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear.” The word “blameless” means free from guilt or fault. The spies were saying that they would keep their promise completely. They would not be guilty of breaking the oath. This was a solemn promise made before God, and they took it seriously.
The oath was conditional. In the next verses, the spies gave Rahab clear instructions. She must bind a scarlet line in the window and gather her family into her house. If she did these things, they would be released from their promise only if harm came to her. But if she failed to follow their instructions, they would not be bound. This shows that both sides had responsibilities in the agreement. The spies carefully defined the terms so that both parties understood their obligations. The Hebrew word translated “blameless” carries the sense of being free, guiltless, or acquitted, which reinforces the conditional nature of the promise.
Biblical connections
Rahab’s faith is later honored in the New Testament. She is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matthew 1:5). Her actions show that God accepts those who turn to Him in faith, no matter their past. The scarlet line in her window reminds us of the blood of the Passover lamb, which saved the Israelites in Egypt. Both point to God’s power to save.
Application
This verse teaches us the importance of keeping our word. When we make a promise, especially to God or to others, we must honor it. The spies could have made excuses, but they chose to be blameless. We should be people who are known for our integrity. If we say we will do something, we should do it.
It also reminds us that God works through unexpected people. Rahab was a foreigner and a prostitute, yet God used her to protect His people. We should not judge others by their past. God can use anyone who trusts Him.
Reflection
Think about the promises you have made. Are you faithful to them? The spies understood that an oath before God is binding. We too live in the presence of God, and our words matter. Ask God to help you be a person of integrity, and trust that He is faithful to His promises to you.
