Old Testament
Joshua 2:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She said to them, "Go to the mountain so the pursuers don't find you. Hide there for three days until they return, and then you can go on your way."
Compare translations
And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way.
What Joshua 2:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Rahab, a woman living in Jericho, advises the Israelite spies to escape to the mountains to avoid being caught by the king's men searching for them. She instructs them to hide there for three days until the pursuers have returned to the city. This advice shows her cleverness and bravery, as she risks her own safety to protect the spies. Rahab's actions demonstrate her faith in the God of Israel, as she believes that the Israelites will conquer Jericho. By hiding for three days, the spies can ensure their safety and continue their mission to gather intelligence about the city. This moment highlights the importance of strategic thinking and the willingness to take risks for a greater purpose, as well as the theme of faith and protection in times of danger.
How to apply Joshua 2:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to be wise and strategic in our decisions, especially when facing challenges. It reminds us that sometimes, taking a step back and waiting for the right moment can lead to better outcomes. Trusting in a higher purpose can guide our actions.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Two Spies and Rahab (Joshua 2:1–24)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Joshua 2:16
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Joshua 2:16
Related Bible verses
Related topics
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 2:16 mean?
In Joshua 2:16, Rahab advises the Israelite spies to hide in the mountains for three days to avoid capture by the king's men. This shows her bravery and cleverness in protecting them while demonstrating her faith in the Israelites' future victory.
What is the significance of hiding for three days in Joshua 2:16?
Hiding for three days allows the spies to avoid detection and ensures their safety until the pursuers return to the city. This strategic waiting period is crucial for the spies to continue their mission without being caught.
What does Rahab's advice reveal in Joshua 2:16?
Rahab's advice in Joshua 2:16 reveals her resourcefulness and courage. By risking her safety to help the spies, she shows her belief in the God of Israel and her desire to aid in the Israelites' conquest of Jericho.
What themes are present in Joshua 2:16?
Joshua 2:16 highlights themes of courage, faith, protection, strategy, and risk-taking. Rahab's actions exemplify how strategic thinking and faith can guide decisions in dangerous situations.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.