This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of Rahab and the Israelite spies in the Book of Joshua. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
Context: The Israelites are preparing to invade Canaan, starting with the city of Jericho. Joshua sends two spies ahead to scout the land.
"Jericho's king sent to Rahab...": The king of Jericho receives information (likely from informants or suspicious activity) that foreign men have entered the city and are staying at Rahab's house.
"...Bring out the men who have come to you, who have entered into your house...": The king commands Rahab to hand over the men. He knows they are in her house.
"...for they have come to spy out all the land.": The king states his suspicion that the men are spies sent to gather intelligence about Jericho and the surrounding area in preparation for an attack. He believes they are a threat to his city.
In essence, this verse highlights the following:
Suspicion and fear: The king of Jericho is wary of outsiders and recognizes the potential danger of spies in his city.
Rahab's dilemma: Rahab is now in a precarious position. She knows she is harboring spies and faces a difficult choice: obey the king (and betray the spies) or protect the spies (and defy the king).
The stakes: The verse sets the stage for Rahab's decision, which will have significant consequences for her, her family, and the future of Jericho.
This verse is crucial because it establishes the conflict and sets in motion Rahab's act of courage and faith, which leads to her salvation and a significant turning point in the Israelite conquest of Canaan.
This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of Rahab and the Israelite spies in the Book of Joshua. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
Context: The Israelites are preparing to invade Canaan, starting with the city of Jericho. Joshua sends two spies ahead to scout the land.
"Jericho's king sent to Rahab...": The king of Jericho receives information (likely from informants or suspicious activity) that foreign men have entered the city and are staying at Rahab's house.
"...Bring out the men who have come to you, who have entered into your house...": The king commands Rahab to hand over the men. He knows they are in her house.
"...for they have come to spy out all the land.": The king states his suspicion that the men are spies sent to gather intelligence about Jericho and the surrounding area in preparation for an attack. He believes they are a threat to his city.
In essence, this verse highlights the following:
Suspicion and fear: The king of Jericho is wary of outsiders and recognizes the potential danger of spies in his city.
Rahab's dilemma: Rahab is now in a precarious position. She knows she is harboring spies and faces a difficult choice: obey the king (and betray the spies) or protect the spies (and defy the king).
The stakes: The verse sets the stage for Rahab's decision, which will have significant consequences for her, her family, and the future of Jericho.
This verse is crucial because it establishes the conflict and sets in motion Rahab's act of courage and faith, which leads to her salvation and a significant turning point in the Israelite conquest of Canaan.