Joshua 2:7 - The men pursued them along the way to the fords of the Jordan River. As soon as those who pursued them had gone out, they shut the gate.

Generated Verse: Joshua 2:7

What does "Joshua 2:7" mean?


This verse from Joshua 2:7 describes a key moment in the story of Rahab and the spies:

"The men pursued them along the way to the fords of the Jordan River": The men of Jericho, ordered by their king, were chasing the Israelite spies. The fords of the Jordan were the shallow crossing points of the river, likely the natural places one would attempt to cross. The pursuers correctly surmised that the spies would try to escape in that direction.
"As soon as those who pursued them had gone out, they shut the gate": After the Jerichonian soldiers left the city to chase the spies, the city gate was immediately closed. This action served multiple purposes:

Strategic Defense: Closing the gate prevented anyone else from entering or leaving the city, which could have helped to catch the spies if they tried to return.
Appearances: Closing the gate would have given the impression that the people of Jericho were taking the threat seriously and actively trying to apprehend the spies.
No Suspicion for Rahab: It helps the reader understand why no one would suspect Rahab, as the city was sealed after the pursuers left.

In summary, the verse highlights both the pursuit of the Israelite spies by the men of Jericho and the subsequent securing of the city gates. It establishes a sense of urgency and danger for the spies and creates the context for Rahab's actions in protecting them, as she is now sheltering them inside a locked city.

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