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Book of Joshua - Chapter 2 - Verse 21

2:21
And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.

Meaning

When Rahab uttered the words, "According unto your words, so be it," she was making a solemn promise to the two Israelite spies who had come to her seeking refuge. By agreeing to their terms, she showed great faith and trust in their promise of safety. After they departed, she tied a scarlet line in the window as a sign of her allegiance to them and as a signal for the Israelites to spare her and her family when they eventually conquered Jericho. This symbol of the scarlet line would ultimately serve as a reminder of the covenant she had made with the spies and with God. Rahab's actions exemplify the power of faith and the importance of keeping one's word, even in the face of uncertainty and danger.

Theological Overview

One possible theological interpretation of the verse 'And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.' is that it reflects the concept of faith and obedience. In this passage, Rahab, a Canaanite woman, demonstrates her faith in the God of Israel by agreeing to protect the Israelite spies and follow their instructions. By saying "According unto your words, so be it," Rahab shows her trust in the words of the spies and ultimately in God's plan. Her actions of sending the spies away safely and tying a scarlet line in her window as a sign of her commitment not only saved her own life but also positioned her as a key figure in the lineage of Jesus. This story highlights the importance of faith and obedience in the face of challenging circumstances, as well as the inclusivity of God's salvation for all people, regardless of their background or nationality.

American Standard Version

And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.
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