Old Testament

Joshua 2:20

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the spies sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho are speaking to Rahab, a woman who has hidden them from the authorities.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
Written
Around 1400-1370 BC
Genre
Historical narrative
Original Audience
The Israelites entering Canaan
CBTClear Bible Translation

But if you reveal our mission, we will be released from the oath you made us swear.

KJVKing James Version

And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the spies sent by Joshua to scout the land of Jericho are speaking to Rahab, a woman who has hidden them from the authorities. They are making it clear that if she discloses their mission to anyone, they will no longer be bound by the promise they made to protect her and her family. This highlights the importance of trust and confidentiality in their agreement. The spies are emphasizing that their safety and the safety of Rahab's family are contingent upon her discretion. This moment underscores the tension between loyalty and survival, as well as the consequences of breaking trust. The spies are relying on Rahab's commitment to keep their secret, which is crucial for the success of their mission and for her own protection. It also reflects the broader theme of faith and obedience, as Rahab's actions will ultimately lead to her and her family's salvation when the Israelites conquer Jericho.

Key themes

Related topics

loyalty, survival, obedience

How to apply Joshua 2:20 to your life

This verse teaches us the importance of keeping our promises and maintaining trust in our relationships. Just as the spies relied on Rahab's discretion, we should be mindful of the commitments we make to others. Upholding confidentiality can strengthen bonds and ensure mutual respect in our interactions.

Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Joshua 2:20 mean?

Joshua 2:20 means that the spies are telling Rahab that if she reveals their mission, they will no longer be bound by their promise to protect her and her family. This emphasizes the need for trust and confidentiality in their agreement.

What is the significance of trust in Joshua 2:20?

The significance of trust in Joshua 2:20 is highlighted by the spies' reliance on Rahab to keep their mission secret. Their safety and the safety of her family depend on her discretion, illustrating how trust is essential in critical situations.

What does the phrase 'we will be quit of thine oath' mean in Joshua 2:20?

The phrase 'we will be quit of thine oath' means that if Rahab discloses their mission, the spies will no longer feel obligated to uphold their promise to protect her. It underscores the conditional nature of their agreement.

How does Joshua 2:20 relate to the theme of loyalty?

Joshua 2:20 relates to the theme of loyalty by showing how the spies depend on Rahab's loyalty to keep their secret. Her commitment to their agreement is crucial for both her safety and the success of their mission.

The Book of Joshua
Book Summary

The Book of Joshua

1: God Commissions Joshua

After the death of Moses, the Lord commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God commands him to be strong and courageous, assuring him of success and divine presence, just as He was with Moses. He instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe all that is written in it, for then he will be prosperous and successful. Joshua, in turn, commands the officers of the people to prepare for the crossing of the Jordan River within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh of their promise to Moses to help their brethren conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning to their own inheritance on the east side. The people pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to obey him as they did Moses and encouraging him to be strong and courageous.

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