Joshua 2

1 even Jericho. Or, “and Jericho” (R.V.). Jericho was about seven or eight miles from the river Jordan.

a harlot’s house. It is a striking instance of the condescending grace of God, that He should implant faith in the heart of such a person, leading her to take part with His people, and to hazard her life in protecting them; and should make her the mother (see Matt. i. 5) of a son so distinguished for virtue as Boaz, and so an ancestress of the Messiah. “Many a lost one has by this word been encouraged to hope for mercy.”

and lodged there. The spies may have been led to this house, partly because its situation on the town wall (ver 15) would afford an easy exit, and partly because their entrance into such a house would be least likely to awaken suspicion. But they were doubtless directed by God to one whom He had prepared to carry out His purposes.

3 which are entered into thine house. The proximity of the Hebrew camp caused unusual vigilance on the part of the king.

5 the men went out. It must be remembered that Rahab lived under the deepest moral darkness: and therefore God approved her faith, though its practical exhibition was connected with so much that was faulty: see 2 Cor. viii. 12.

6 to the roof of the house. The roofs of Eastern houses, being flat, with a parapet, were very suitable for such a purpose.

stalks of flax. The flax had doubtless just been brought in from the field and laid out to be dried: for it was the time of flax as well as of barley harvest; both being ripe about the time of the passover: see iii. 15, and note, compared with Exod. ix. 31, and note. The seasons in the Jordan valley are very similar to those of Egypt.

7 unto the fords. The men probably stopped at the river, for it was now full, and the Israelites were near the other bank.

8 they were laid down. i.e., to sleep on the housetop, as is common in Palestine.

12 a true token. Heb., “a sign, or pledge of truth.” This is given in ver. 14, where the spies pledge their lives.

19 his blood shall be upon his head. i.e., the guilt of his death shall fall upon himself.