How do you cut Rahab into pieces?

I. Definition and Identity of “Rahab”

Throughout Scripture, the word “Rahab” carries a layered meaning. In some passages (e.g., Joshua 2:1), it refers to the woman in Jericho who helped Israelite spies. In other contexts, especially in poetic Scriptures, it is a symbolic name for the forces of chaos or a representation of formidable national power—particularly Egypt (e.g., Isaiah 30:7). The Book of Isaiah uses “Rahab” metaphorically as a sea monster or dragonlike figure that the LORD conquered to illustrate His supremacy over proud or oppressive powers.

When the question arises, “How do you cut Rahab into pieces?” it typically refers to Isaiah 51:9, which states in the Berean Standard Bible:

“Awake, awake, put on strength, O arm of the LORD. Awake, as in days of old, as in generations long ago. Was it not You who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the monster through?”

II. Scriptural References and Their Context

1. Isaiah 51:9:

“Was it not You who cut Rahab in pieces, who pierced the monster through?”

Here, “Rahab” is a figure of speech for a chaotic, prideful force. The speaker (Zion calling upon the “arm of the LORD”) recalls past divine victories to instill hope in the present.

2. Job 26:12:

“By His power He stilled the sea; by His understanding He shattered Rahab.”

In this poetic description of God’s majesty, “Rahab” again symbolizes turbulence or proud opposition, which God decisively conquers.

3. Psalm 89:10:

“You crushed Rahab like a carcass; You scattered Your enemies with Your mighty arm.”

This passage likens the defeat of “Rahab” to a thorough conquest, underscoring God’s unstoppable power.

4. Isaiah 30:7:

“Egypt’s help is futile and empty; therefore I have called her Rahab Who Sits Still.”

Here, “Rahab” is a taunt for Egypt’s presumed greatness—immobilized by God's greater plan.

In these references, “Rahab” does not describe a literal person to be harmed but rather a poetic or symbolic entity representing formidable, chaotic powers, with Egypt often in view.

III. Understanding the Imagery of “Cutting Rahab in Pieces”

The biblical language about “cutting Rahab in pieces” is ancient Near Eastern imagery. Various cultures in the region told stories of deities vanquishing sea monsters representing chaos. The Hebrew Scriptures use similar poetic devices but clearly emphasize the LORD as the one true God overpowering any form of chaos or oppressive nation.

To “cut Rahab in pieces” means to subdue, defeat, or break the mythic or national power symbolized by Rahab. By recalling such victories, the authors and prophets highlight that the same God who once overcame seemingly unconquerable foes will act on behalf of His people again.

IV. Historical and Archaeological Context

1. Egypt’s Power and the Exodus:

The historical memory of Israel’s exodus from Egypt forms a backdrop for Isaiah’s references. Archaeological finds such as Egyptian records (e.g., Merneptah Stele) confirm interaction between Egypt and people groups in Canaan, providing cultural context for Israel’s reliance on God’s deliverance and their memory of God defeating mighty empires.

2. Near Eastern Creation Myths:

While the Bible always portrays Yahweh as eternal Creator (Genesis 1:1), parallel myths from other ancient cultures (such as Mesopotamian or Egyptian texts involving serpents or chaos creatures like Apophis) help us see that “Rahab” was Scripture’s poetic allusion to similar “chaos monsters.” Yet in the biblical account, Yahweh is supremely sovereign, with no need to wrestle chaotic forces on equal footing; He simply overcomes them by His command.

V. Theological Significance of “Cutting Rahab into Pieces”

1. God’s Sovereignty over All Powers:

The act of “cutting Rahab in pieces” stands as a testament to God’s universal lordship. Political, spiritual, and cosmic forces that appear insurmountable cannot withstand His might. Thus, believers are reminded to put their trust in God’s ability to deliver.

2. Reassurance for the Faithful:

Isaiah 51:9 appeals to divine intervention in times of distress. It points to God’s prior triumphs—over chaos, turmoil, or proud nations—to encourage trust that He will deliver His people again.

3. Foreshadowing Greater Deliverance:

Throughout the Scriptures, episodes of divine intervention hint at the ultimate deliverance found in Christ’s victory over sin and death. While “Rahab” symbolizes external threat, its defeat mirrors Christ’s conquest of spiritual adversaries, confirming God’s power to save completely.

VI. Practical and Devotional Reflections

1. Confidence in Present Challenges:

When facing circumstances that feel chaotic or overpowering, believers can recall the divine pattern of “cutting Rahab into pieces.” God’s past actions guarantee His present faithfulness (Hebrews 13:8).

2. Living Out a Victorious Faith:

A major lesson from the Rahab imagery is to rely on God rather than human strength. Just as Israel was counseled not to run to Egypt for help, but to trust in the Lord (Isaiah 30:1–3), believers today are instructed to depend on God’s sustaining and conquering power.

3. Perspective of Eternity:

In the grand narrative of salvation, God’s ultimate conquest over cosmic forces (represented by Rahab) paves the way for complete redemption, culminating in a new creation (Revelation 21:1). The believer’s hope rests in the unstoppable and benevolent authority of God.

VII. Answering “How Do You Cut Rahab into Pieces?”

Taken literally, the question might seem violent. In context, however, “cutting Rahab into pieces” refers to God’s symbolic triumph over chaos, arrogance, or oppressive power. Believers are not called to perform a literal action; they are assured that God already does and will continue to overthrow prideful adversaries, whether spiritual or earthly.

In essence, “cutting Rahab” implies trusting God for victory, standing in awe of His power, and recognizing His hand in both past and future deliverances.

VIII. Conclusion

When Scripture speaks of “cutting Rahab into pieces,” it uses vivid poetic language to convey God’s absolute sovereignty over all that opposes His will and His people. From a historical viewpoint, references to Egypt and other chaos symbolism anchor this motif in real events (the Exodus) and common ancient imagery. Theologically, it offers believers assurance of God’s unparalleled capacity to overcome any power, preserving and blessing those who trust in Him.

This layered term “Rahab” thus becomes a reminder that no foe—be it a mighty kingdom, chaotic force, or prideful heart—can stand against the Lord who has proven victorious throughout history, remains so today, and will be for all eternity.