Old Testament
Joshua 6:23
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The young men who were spies went in and brought out Rahab, her father, her mother, her brothers, and everything she owned. They brought out all her relatives and left them outside the camp of Israel.
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And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp of Israel.
What Joshua 6:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the young spies who had previously infiltrated Jericho return to rescue Rahab and her family. Rahab had helped the spies by hiding them from the king's men, and as a reward for her faith and bravery, she and her family are spared from the destruction of the city. The spies ensure that not only Rahab but also her parents, siblings, and all her possessions are brought out safely. This act highlights the importance of loyalty and faithfulness, as Rahab's actions saved her family. The mention of leaving them outside the camp of Israel indicates a transitional phase for Rahab and her family, as they are now separated from their former life in Jericho and are about to join the Israelites. This moment signifies a new beginning for them, emphasizing themes of redemption and the consequences of faithfulness to God’s people.
How to apply Joshua 6:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of faith and loyalty in our lives. Just as Rahab's actions led to her family's salvation, our choices can impact those around us. We should strive to act with courage and integrity, trusting in God's protection.
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 6:23
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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 6:23 mean?
Joshua 6:23 describes how the spies sent by Joshua returned to Jericho to rescue Rahab and her family after the city was conquered. Their actions reflect the reward for Rahab's faithfulness in helping them, ensuring her and her family's safety from destruction.
What is the significance of Rahab's family being saved in Joshua 6:23?
The saving of Rahab's family in Joshua 6:23 highlights the themes of loyalty and faithfulness. Rahab's actions not only spared her life but also provided a new beginning for her family, emphasizing the impact of individual choices on the lives of others.
What does the phrase 'left them outside the camp of Israel' mean in Joshua 6:23?
The phrase 'left them outside the camp of Israel' indicates that Rahab and her family were in a transitional state after being rescued. They were separated from their old life in Jericho and were about to join the Israelites, symbolizing a fresh start.
What themes are present in Joshua 6:23?
Joshua 6:23 encompasses themes such as faithfulness, redemption, family, courage, and divine protection. These themes are illustrated through Rahab's actions and the subsequent rescue of her family.
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