Old Testament
Joshua 6:17
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The city and everything in it shall be accursed to the LORD. Only Rahab the harlot and all who are with her in the house shall live, because she hid the messengers we sent.
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And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the LORD: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent.
What Joshua 6:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God commands that the city of Jericho and everything in it is to be devoted to destruction, meaning it is set apart for judgment. However, Rahab, a woman who lived in Jericho, is spared because she protected the Israelite spies sent by Joshua. This act of faith and bravery led to her and her family being saved from the destruction that befell the city. The verse highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands and the mercy shown to those who show faith in Him. Rahab's actions not only saved her life but also positioned her as a significant figure in biblical history, illustrating that anyone, regardless of their past, can find redemption through faith. This moment marks a pivotal point in Israel's conquest of Canaan, emphasizing the themes of judgment, mercy, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
How to apply Joshua 6:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to act in faith, even in difficult circumstances. Like Rahab, we can choose to stand for what is right and protect others. It reminds us that our past does not define our future, and faith can lead to unexpected blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: The Walls of Jericho (Joshua 6:1–27)
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Joshua
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Joshua 6:17
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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 6:17 mean?
Joshua 6:17 means that God commanded the destruction of Jericho and everything in it, except for Rahab and her family, who were spared because she protected the Israelite spies. This verse illustrates God's judgment and mercy.
Who is Rahab in Joshua 6:17?
Rahab is a woman from Jericho who hid the Israelite spies sent by Joshua. Her actions demonstrated faith and bravery, leading to her and her family's salvation during the city's destruction.
What is the significance of Rahab's actions in Joshua 6:17?
Rahab's actions are significant because they show that faith can lead to redemption, regardless of one's past. Her protection of the spies resulted in her being spared from destruction, highlighting themes of mercy and obedience.
What themes are present in Joshua 6:17?
The themes present in Joshua 6:17 include judgment, mercy, faith, obedience, and redemption. The verse emphasizes God's commands and the importance of faith in difficult situations.
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