Topical Bible: Oath: Rahab Requires an Oath from the Spies

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In the biblical narrative, an oath is a solemn promise or vow, often invoking God as a witness to the truth of one's words or the binding nature of one's commitment. The account of Rahab and the Israelite spies provides a significant example of an oath in the context of divine providence and human agency.

Biblical Context

The account of Rahab and the spies is found in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 2. As the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, Joshua, the leader of Israel, sent two spies from Shittim to scout the city of Jericho. The spies entered the house of Rahab, a prostitute, seeking refuge and information about the city.

Rahab's Faith and Request

Rahab, recognizing the power of the God of Israel, chose to protect the spies from the king of Jericho's men. Her actions demonstrated a remarkable faith in the God of Israel, despite her background and the pagan environment in which she lived. Rahab's faith is later commended in the New Testament, where she is mentioned in the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews 11:31 and in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1:5.

Aware of the impending destruction of Jericho, Rahab requested an oath from the spies to ensure the safety of her family. In Joshua 2:12-13 , Rahab implores the spies, saying, "Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD that you will show kindness to my family, because I have shown kindness to you. Give me a sure sign that you will spare the lives of my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and that you will save us from death."

The Oath and Its Conditions

The spies agreed to Rahab's request, binding themselves with an oath before the LORD. They stipulated conditions for the oath's fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of obedience and faithfulness to the agreement. In Joshua 2:17-20 , the spies instructed Rahab to tie a scarlet cord in the window through which she let them down and to gather her family into her house. They warned that if any of her family ventured outside, their blood would be on their own heads, absolving the spies of responsibility.

The scarlet cord served as a sign of the oath and a symbol of protection, reminiscent of the Passover blood on the doorposts in Exodus. This act of faith and obedience by Rahab and her family ensured their preservation when Jericho fell.

Theological Significance

The oath between Rahab and the spies highlights several theological themes. It underscores the importance of faith and the recognition of God's sovereignty, as Rahab acknowledged the LORD's supremacy over the heavens and the earth (Joshua 2:11). The narrative also illustrates God's grace and mercy, as He extends salvation to a Gentile woman and her family, foreshadowing the inclusion of the Gentiles in the redemptive plan through Christ.

Furthermore, the account emphasizes the seriousness of oaths and vows, particularly those made in the name of the LORD. The binding nature of the oath between Rahab and the spies reflects the biblical principle that one's word, especially when sworn before God, is to be honored and fulfilled.

In summary, the oath Rahab required from the spies serves as a testament to the power of faith, the providence of God, and the sacredness of vows made in His name.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 2:12-14
Now therefore, I pray you, swear to me by the LORD, since I have showed you kindness, that you will also show kindness to my father's house, and give me a true token:
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Joshua 6:22
But Joshua had said to the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out there the woman, and all that she has, as you swore to her.
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Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals.
... to his bow, and to his girdle." Rahab said to ... psalm, the Redeemer testified to the
Father's oath, sworn to ... their efforts to perform what he requires; and their ...
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