Rahab is introduced in Joshua 2 as a harlot living in Jericho who hid two Israelite spies sent by Joshua. Though a Gentile and a resident of a condemned city, Rahab demonstrated remarkable faith. She acknowledged the Lord’s authority by saying, “I know that the Lord has given you the land… for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath” (Joshua 2:9–11).
Rahab hid the spies on her roof and sent their pursuers in the wrong direction. She then asked for protection for her family in return for her help. The spies agreed and instructed her to tie a scarlet cord in her window, a sign of her house so that all within would be spared during the destruction of Jericho (Joshua 2:17–21). This act of faith saved her and her household.
When Jericho fell, Joshua commanded the spies to rescue Rahab and her family, and “she dwells in Israel to this day” (Joshua 6:25). She was later married into the nation and became the mother of Boaz (Matthew 1:5), placing her in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.
Rahab is honored in the New Testament for her faith. Hebrews 11:31 says, “By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe.” James 2:25 affirms her actions as evidence of living faith: “Was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way?”
Rahab’s transformation from a harlot in a pagan city to a woman of faith and a foremother of the Messiah shows the power of God’s grace. Her story is a testimony that faith in the Lord brings redemption, no matter one’s past.
