Old Testament
Joshua 6:22
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
But Joshua had told the two men who had scouted the land, "Go into the harlot's house and bring out the woman and all that she has, as you swore to her."
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But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot’s house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her.
What Joshua 6:22 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joshua instructs the two spies to return to Rahab's house, the woman who helped them by hiding them from the authorities in Jericho. He emphasizes the importance of honoring their promise to her, which was to spare her and her family during the impending destruction of the city. This act of loyalty highlights the significance of keeping one's word and the value of faithfulness in relationships. Rahab, a Canaanite woman, is recognized for her faith and courage, as she chose to protect the spies, believing in the God of Israel. This moment underscores the theme of redemption, as Rahab, despite her past, is given a chance to be saved and included in the community of God's people. It also illustrates God's mercy and the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can be part of His plan if they show faith.
How to apply Joshua 6:22 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of keeping our promises and being faithful to our commitments. It encourages us to show compassion and support to those in need, regardless of their past. By honoring our word, we reflect God's character and love in our relationships.
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 6:22
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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 6:22 teach about keeping promises?
Joshua 6:22 emphasizes the importance of honoring commitments, as Joshua instructs the spies to return to Rahab's house to fulfill their promise of protection. This act illustrates that keeping one's word is a reflection of integrity and faithfulness, qualities that are essential in our relationships with others.
Who is Rahab in Joshua 6:22 and why is she significant?
Rahab is a Canaanite woman who played a crucial role in the Israelite spies' mission by hiding them from the authorities in Jericho. Her significance lies in her faith and courage; she believed in the God of Israel and acted on that belief, which ultimately led to her and her family's salvation. Rahab's story highlights themes of redemption and God's mercy.
What can we learn about faith from Joshua 6:22?
Joshua 6:22 illustrates that faith can lead to action, as seen in Rahab's decision to protect the spies based on her belief in God. This teaches us that true faith often requires courage and can result in unexpected blessings, showing that anyone can be part of God's plan regardless of their past.
How does Joshua 6:22 reflect God's mercy?
In Joshua 6:22, God's mercy is evident in His willingness to save Rahab and her family despite her past as a harlot. This moment underscores the idea that God's grace extends to all who show faith, highlighting that redemption is available to everyone, regardless of their background or previous choices.
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