Joshua 2:6

(But Rahab had taken them up to the roof and hidden them among the stalks of flax that she had laid out there.)

Study Bible

But she had taken them up to the roof
This phrase introduces us to Rahab's decisive and courageous action. The Hebrew word for "roof" is "גָּג" (gag), which refers to the flat roofs common in ancient Near Eastern architecture. These roofs were often used for various domestic activities, including drying produce. Rahab's choice to take the spies to the roof indicates her quick thinking and resourcefulness. In a spiritual sense, this action symbolizes elevation and protection, as the roof is a place above the chaos below, suggesting divine providence and oversight.

and hidden them
The act of hiding the spies is central to the narrative. The Hebrew root for "hidden" is "טָמַן" (taman), which means to conceal or bury. This action reflects Rahab's faith and allegiance to the God of Israel, as she risks her own safety to protect the spies. In a broader biblical context, hiding often symbolizes God's protection and the concealment of His plans from the enemy. Rahab's actions foreshadow the protective nature of God over His people.

among the stalks of flax
Flax, or "פִּשְׁתָּה" (pishtah) in Hebrew, was a common crop in ancient Canaan, used primarily for making linen. The mention of flax indicates the time of year, likely the spring, when flax was harvested and laid out to dry. This detail not only provides historical context but also symbolizes purity and righteousness, as linen garments are often associated with holiness in Scripture. Rahab's use of flax to hide the spies can be seen as a metaphor for covering them with righteousness.

that she had laid out on the roof
The phrase "laid out" suggests intentionality and preparation. The Hebrew verb "עָרַךְ" (arak) means to arrange or set in order. Rahab's actions were not haphazard; she had prepared the roof for drying flax, and this preparation became providential for the spies' concealment. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty, where human actions, even those seemingly mundane, are woven into His divine plan. Rahab's preparation and the subsequent hiding of the spies illustrate how God uses ordinary circumstances to achieve extraordinary outcomes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Rahab
A Canaanite woman living in Jericho, known for her occupation as a prostitute. She plays a crucial role in the account by hiding the Israelite spies and later becomes part of the lineage of Jesus Christ.

2. The Spies
Two Israelite men sent by Joshua to scout the city of Jericho. Their mission is to gather intelligence on the city's defenses and the morale of its inhabitants.

3. The Roof
In ancient Near Eastern architecture, roofs were flat and often used for various domestic activities, such as drying flax. Rahab uses this space to conceal the spies.

4. Flax
A plant cultivated for its fibers, which were used to make linen. The stalks of flax were laid out on the roof to dry, providing a perfect hiding place for the spies.

5. Jericho
A fortified city in Canaan, significant for its strategic location and formidable walls. It is the first city the Israelites encounter in their conquest of the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
Rahab's decision to hide the spies was a demonstration of her faith in the God of Israel. True faith often requires taking risks and making difficult choices that align with God's purposes.

God's Sovereignty and Grace
Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Christ shows that God's grace extends beyond cultural and moral boundaries. He can use anyone, regardless of their past, for His divine purposes.

Courage and Obedience
Rahab's actions required courage and a willingness to defy her own people. Believers are called to obey God even when it is countercultural or risky.

The Role of Women in God's Plan
Rahab's account highlights the significant role women can play in God's redemptive history. Her faith and actions were pivotal in the success of the Israelite mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Rahab's account challenge our understanding of who can be used by God for His purposes?

2. In what ways does Rahab's faith inspire you to take bold actions in your own life?

3. How can we apply the principle of faith in action in our daily decisions and interactions with others?

4. What does Rahab's inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus teach us about God's grace and redemption?

5. How can we, like Rahab, demonstrate courage and obedience in situations where our faith is tested?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 11:31
This verse highlights Rahab's faith, noting that she was not destroyed with the disobedient because she welcomed the spies in peace. It connects her actions to the broader theme of faith in action.

James 2:25
James uses Rahab as an example of how faith is demonstrated through works, emphasizing that her actions in hiding the spies were a manifestation of her faith.

Matthew 1:5
Rahab is mentioned in the genealogy of Jesus, illustrating God's grace and the inclusion of Gentiles in His redemptive plan.