Joshua 2:21

“And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.”

This verse is a part of the account of Joshua sending two spies to Jericho to gather information before the Israelites’ conquest of the city. The spies entered the city and sought refuge at the house of a woman named Rahab, who was a prostitute. Rahab had heard about the Israelites and their God, and she acknowledged their power and the impending defeat of Jericho.

In the preceding verses, Rahab had hidden the spies from the king of Jericho’s men and made a covenant with them. In Joshua 2:18-20, Rahab expressed her fear for her family’s safety and requested protection for them when the Israelites attacked Jericho. The spies agreed to her request and instructed her to tie a scarlet cord or line in her window, through which she and her household would be saved.

In Joshua 2:21, Rahab responds affirmatively to the spies’ instructions. She agrees with their words, confirming her acceptance of their proposal. Rahab then proceeds to send the spies on their way, allowing them to return safely to Joshua and the Israelite camp.

The significance of Rahab binding the scarlet line in her window lies in its symbolism. The scarlet cord served as a distinguishing mark, signifying Rahab’s faith and trust in God’s promise of protection. The color red often represents blood and redemption in biblical contexts. By tying the scarlet cord in her window, Rahab demonstrated her faith and acted in obedience to God’s instructions through the spies. This act would later ensure the safety of Rahab and her family when Jericho fell to the Israelites.

Rahab’s story is an example of God’s mercy and redemption, as well as the inclusion of unlikely individuals in His plan. Despite her occupation as a prostitute, Rahab’s faith and actions were recognized and commended in the biblical narrative. In fact, Rahab is mentioned in the lineage of Jesus Christ in Matthew 1:5, highlighting the significance of her role in the redemptive story of God’s people.

Overall, Joshua 2:21 showcases Rahab’s obedience and faith, as well as God’s faithfulness in honoring His promises. It reminds us that God can work through unexpected people and circumstances to accomplish His purposes.