Old Testament
Joshua 2:21
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She agreed, "Let it be exactly as you've said." Then she sent them on their way, and as soon as they left, she tied the scarlet cord in the window.
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And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.
What Joshua 2:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Rahab, a woman living in Jericho, agrees to the terms set by the Israelite spies. She acknowledges their request and promises to protect them, demonstrating her faith in their God. After they leave, she ties a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for the Israelites to recognize her house during their conquest of Jericho. This act symbolizes her faith and obedience, as the scarlet cord represents salvation and protection. Rahab's actions show her courage and willingness to defy her own people for the sake of the Israelites, highlighting the theme of faith leading to deliverance. The scarlet cord also foreshadows the future significance of the blood of Christ in providing salvation to believers. Rahab's story is a powerful reminder of how faith can lead to redemption, regardless of one's past or background.
How to apply Joshua 2:21 to your life
Just as Rahab acted on her faith by tying the scarlet cord, we are called to demonstrate our faith through our actions. This can mean standing up for what is right, helping others, or trusting in God's promises even when it is difficult. Our faith should be visible to those around us.
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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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 2:21 mean?
Joshua 2:21 describes Rahab's agreement with the Israelite spies to protect them. She ties a scarlet cord in her window as a sign for the Israelites to recognize her house during their conquest of Jericho, symbolizing her faith and obedience.
What is the significance of the scarlet cord in Joshua 2:21?
The scarlet cord in Joshua 2:21 represents Rahab's faith and her commitment to protect the spies. It serves as a sign for the Israelites to spare her house during the attack, symbolizing salvation and divine protection.
How does Joshua 2:21 relate to the theme of redemption?
Joshua 2:21 relates to redemption through Rahab's faith and her actions that lead to her family's salvation. Her willingness to help the spies and the symbolism of the scarlet cord illustrate how faith can lead to deliverance and a new beginning.
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