Old Testament
Joshua 2:13
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Promise to spare my father, my mother, my brothers, my sisters, and all who belong to them. Save us from death.
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And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.
What Joshua 2:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Joshua 2:13, Rahab, a woman living in Jericho, makes a bold request to the Israelite spies. She asks them to spare her family during the impending destruction of her city. Rahab recognizes the power of the God of Israel and seeks mercy for her loved ones. This verse highlights her faith and the importance of family bonds. By asking for the safety of her parents, siblings, and their possessions, Rahab demonstrates her deep concern for their lives. Her plea is not just for herself but for the entire family, showing her desire to protect those she loves. This moment is pivotal as it sets the stage for her family's salvation and illustrates the theme of redemption. Rahab's faith in the spies' promise reflects a significant turning point in her life, leading to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus. This verse emphasizes the importance of faith, the value of family, and the possibility of salvation even in dire circumstances.
How to apply Joshua 2:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to seek protection and salvation not just for ourselves but also for our loved ones. It reminds us of the importance of faith in difficult times and the power of intercession. We can pray for our families and trust in God's mercy.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Two Spies and Rahab (Joshua 2:1–24)
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Joshua
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Joshua 2:13
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 2:13 mean?
Joshua 2:13 captures Rahab's plea to the Israelite spies to spare her family during the destruction of Jericho. It highlights her faith in God and her desire to protect her loved ones, showing the importance of family bonds and the hope for salvation.
What is the significance of Rahab's request in Joshua 2:13?
Rahab's request in Joshua 2:13 is significant because it demonstrates her faith in the God of Israel and her courage to seek mercy for her family. This moment is pivotal as it leads to her family's salvation and illustrates the theme of redemption.
What does the phrase 'save us from death' mean in Joshua 2:13?
The phrase 'save us from death' in Joshua 2:13 reflects Rahab's urgent plea for protection from the impending destruction of Jericho. It emphasizes her recognition of the danger her family faces and her hope for divine mercy.
How does Joshua 2:13 relate to the theme of family?
Joshua 2:13 relates to the theme of family by showcasing Rahab's deep concern for her parents, siblings, and their possessions. Her request for their safety highlights the importance of familial bonds and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.
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