And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.

JOSHUA 2:9KJV
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Joshua 2:9 (KJV)

What does Joshua 2:9 mean?

Joshua 2:9 records Rahab telling the Israelite spies that she knows the LORD has given them the land, and that fear of them has overwhelmed the people living there. She explains that everyone in the land is discouraged and afraid because of what they have heard about the Israelites.

Rahab, a resident of Jericho, is speaking privately to the two Israelite men who have come to scout out the city. She reveals that news of Israel’s approach has spread, causing widespread fear among the people of Canaan. Rahab’s words show that even before any battle, the reputation of Israel and their God has already shaken the confidence of Jericho’s inhabitants.

The Hebrew behind Joshua 2:9

  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): Rahab specifically uses the personal name for Israel’s God, showing she recognizes the God of Israel as the one behind these events, not just a generic deity.
  • "Terror" (אֵימָה, eimah): This word means a deep, paralyzing fear or dread. The verse emphasizes that it is not just concern, but a profound terror that has affected everyone.
  • "Faint" (מוּג, mug): This verb means to melt away or lose courage. Rahab is saying that the people’s strength and resolve have dissolved because of what they have heard about Israel.

Why Joshua 2:9 matters

  • Joshua 2:9 highlights that the reputation of Israel and their God has already prepared the way for Israel’s victory by undermining the morale of their enemies.
  • Rahab’s statement shows that even outsiders recognize the power and authority of the LORD (יְהוָה, YHWH), which is a key theme in the book of Joshua.
  • This verse sets the stage for Rahab’s later actions and her decision to help the spies, showing her faith and understanding before she formally asks for protection.

Where else these words appear

“terror” Hebrew H367 · used in 17 verses

  • Genesis 15:12 And when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and, lo, an horror of great darkness fell upon him.
  • Job 9:34 Let him take his rod away from me, and let not his fear terrify me:
  • Job 41:14 Who can open the doors of his face? his teeth are terrible round about.

“faint” Hebrew H4127 · used in 17 verses

  • Exodus 15:15 Then the dukes of Edom shall be amazed; the mighty men of Moab, trembling shall take hold upon them; all the inhabitants of Canaan shall melt away.
  • Psalms 65:10 Thou waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settlest the furrows thereof: thou makest it soft with showers: thou blessest the springing thereof.
  • Jeremiah 49:23 Concerning Damascus. Hamath is confounded, and Arpad: for they have heard evil tidings: they are fainthearted; there is sorrow on the sea; it cannot be quiet.