Joshua 2:20 (KJV)

What does Joshua 2:20 mean?

Joshua 2:20 means that if Rahab reveals the secret plan or agreement to anyone, the Israelite spies will no longer be bound by the promise they made to protect her and her family. The responsibility for keeping the agreement depends on Rahab’s silence about their business.

In this scene, the Israelite spies are speaking to Rahab in Jericho after she has hidden them from the authorities. They are making it clear that their oath to spare her family only stands if she keeps their mission secret. This sets a condition for the promise, showing that trust and secrecy are essential for Rahab’s safety.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 2:20

• "utter" (נָגַד, nagad): This word means to declare or make known. Here, it emphasizes that Rahab must not tell anyone about the spies’ mission, highlighting the importance of secrecy.
• "business" (דָּבָר, davar): This word often means "word," "matter," or "thing." In this verse, it refers to the secret arrangement or plan between Rahab and the spies.
• "quit" (נָקִי, naqi): This word means to be free or released from obligation. The spies use it to say they will no longer be responsible for the oath if Rahab breaks her part.
• "oath" (שְׁבוּעָה, shevuah): This is a formal promise or sworn agreement. The spies’ oath is their sworn word to protect Rahab, but only if she keeps silent.
• "swear" (שָׁבַע, shava): This verb means to swear or take an oath. It underlines the seriousness of the agreement Rahab made the spies promise.

Why Joshua 2:20 matters

• Joshua 2:20 clarifies that the promise of protection was conditional, not automatic, which helps prevent the misunderstanding that Rahab’s safety was guaranteed no matter what.
• The verse highlights the mutual trust required between Rahab and the spies; both sides had responsibilities to keep.
• This detail connects to the larger story by showing how Rahab’s actions and choices directly affected her fate and the fate of her family during the fall of Jericho.