Old Testament
Joshua 2:18
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"When we enter the land, tie this scarlet cord in the window you lowered us from. Bring your father, your mother, your brothers, and your father's entire household together inside your house.
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Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household, home unto thee.
What Joshua 2:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the spies instruct Rahab to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for their safety when the Israelites invade Jericho. This cord symbolizes protection and faith. Rahab is also told to gather her family inside her house, ensuring their safety during the attack. The scarlet cord represents not only physical safety but also a deeper spiritual significance, as it foreshadows themes of redemption and salvation. Rahab's obedience to the spies' instructions demonstrates her faith in their God, which ultimately leads to her and her family's deliverance. This act of tying the cord serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and obedience in times of crisis, as well as the mercy that can be found through belief.
How to apply Joshua 2:18 to your life
Just as Rahab acted on her faith by following the spies' instructions, we too are called to trust and obey God's guidance in our lives. This can mean making choices that protect our loved ones and standing firm in our beliefs, even in challenging situations.
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 2:18
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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 2:18 mean?
Joshua 2:18 describes the instructions given to Rahab by the Israelite spies to tie a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for her family's safety during the invasion of Jericho. This act symbolizes protection and faith, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's guidance.
What is the significance of the scarlet cord in Joshua 2:18?
The scarlet cord in Joshua 2:18 represents both physical safety and spiritual themes of redemption and salvation. It serves as a visible sign of Rahab's faith and obedience, which ultimately leads to her and her family's deliverance.
How does Joshua 2:18 relate to family safety?
In Joshua 2:18, Rahab is instructed to bring her family into her house for safety during the Israelite attack. This highlights the importance of protecting loved ones and ensuring their safety in times of crisis.
What themes are present in Joshua 2:18?
Joshua 2:18 encompasses themes of faith, obedience, protection, redemption, family, and salvation. It illustrates how trust in God's guidance can lead to safety and deliverance.
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