The more common introduction (the reason people are shocked that shed have the honor of being in the lineage of Jesus): This leads us to Rahabs real shining moment; The Story of Rahab and the Spies at Jericho, as given you the land, that the terror of you has fallen on us, and that all the inhabitants of the land are fainthearted because of you. 2. Despite living in a city that was opposed to the Israelites, she believed in their God and chose to help them. Weve talked about it as a verb but there is one more definition I want to bring into this conversation before we come to an end. "When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone's courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below" (Joshua 2:11). When He speaks a word, it happens. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city walls seven times, accompanied by the priests blowing their trumpets. Humility creates an atmosphere where God alone is exulted. For Rahab believed. So glad we could answer some of those questions for you! Rahab is listed in the genealogy of Jesus Christ in the Gospel of Matthew. 4. Third, this story teaches us about Gods mercy and grace. If so, it is likely that she had other family members in Jericho who were also struggling to make ends meet. This is what set the God of the Bible apart from the false gods of other nations. Ive been digging on Rahab and had questions and you addresses many of them. }); The power of covenant in the Bible can be summed up by the fact that the God of the Bible is the only God who publicly and privately keeps His covenants. In this historical fiction, author Diana Wallis Taylor offers a beautiful story of intrigue that suggests Rahab was a descendent of Ephraim, one of the ten lost tribes of Israel. When scripture mentions Rahab, she's almost always called Rahab the harlot except in Matthew's genealogy. For years, the people of Jericho had existed behind their thick walls. Rahab kept them safe and helped the spies to escape. The biblical account of the fall of Jericho describes a miraculous event in which the walls of the city came tumbling down after Joshua and the Israelites marched around them for seven days. The Bible used the word harlot not only to refer to prostitutes but also to anyone who worshipped idolsthose who prostitutedthemselves before pagan gods. She and her husband became the parents of a boy named Boaz. Rahab knew what was going on. In conclusion, there is reason to believe that Rahab did have family in Jericho. 2. Greenland is the world's largest island. 33. Fast-forward a couple of hundred years and the next place we find Rahab is in the genealogy of Christ. That's right. Melting ice and icebergs make frizzing noise called "bergy selter". What has been your experience? Run your raceIn Rahab Woman of Jericho, the main character had to resist giving in to the expectation of others, including her family. And we can become a blessing to others. One of the more disturbing yet interesting fun facts: All the hair on your head is dead, except for the follicles. And in Christ Jesus, the blood-stained crimson cross of shame became the gleaming symbol of salvation. Rahab - Lockyer's All the Women of the Bible - Bible Gateway Read the Bible Reading Plans Advanced Search Available Versions Audio Bibles Study Tools Scripture Engagement More Resources Explore More Newsletters Devotionals Bible Gateway App Bible Audio App Bible Gateway Blog Bible Gateway Plus Store Bibles Deals More document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Alonda Tanner is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. 3. As a result, when Jericho is conquered, Rahab and her family are spared. One million Earths could fit inside the sun. She shows that with forgiveness there is no need to live in guilt and stay in our sinful ways. These colors are historically an important symbol of France. As they began yet another march around the city, the dust rose in their wake and the blare of horns again pierced the air. It's also known as the "bleu, blanc, rouge", which means "blue, white, red". And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any more courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on earth beneath., Leaving Behind Her Livelihood and Citizenship. Ad revenue is generated off of page views. Why do women seem to have a small role in the Bible? The women in my family do a Bible study each week and we are currently doing the women of the Bible. It also shows how God can use anyone, even someone with a checkered past, to further his purposes. The Bible talks about Rahabs faith. However debaucherous, brothers, bars, and red light districts have often functioned as infamous meetings placed for military espionage. Second, Rahab reminds us that anyone can be saved by Gods grace. Wouldnt the Father ensure a pure lineage for His Son? She is one of the prominent figures in the Christian tradition. When we read the story of Rahab we assume that she was a Canaanite. How does Rahabs story foreshadow the gift of the gospel. There is a lot of historical evidence and even biblical evidence that points to her being forced into prostitution. She was a prostitute who became a believer and played a key role in the Israelite conquest of Jericho. Though less common than earthquakes, the moon actually has moonquakes, too. Even though the people disobeyed Him, He still had mercy on them and allowed them to enter the Promised Land. Second, Rahab specifically mentions her father and mother in her conversation with the spies. I received an advanced readers copy from the publishers through Celebrate Lit; a positive review was not required. Interestingly, Boaz went on to marry Ruth, another woman who was not originally from the tribe of Judah. When the Israelites were finally ready to occupy the land which had been promised for more than 400 years, God brought them to the city of Jericho. I love how beautifully these lyrics reflect that. When something is abandoned it is no longer receiving the nurture it needs to grow. Rehab became a central strategic figure of incomparable courage as she helped Israel to enter the promised land and subdue her own people. Belief Rahab believed in Gods promise of salvation, even before she had seen any evidence of it. Also, my 14 year old niece pointed out that the Matthew scripture reference should be Matthew 16:25 instead of Matthew 17:32-33 (which doesnt exist). Finally, Rahab shows us that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact. Thanks for sharing your experience with me , I used to think Rahab was only a prostitute and she wanted to sleep with the Christian spies. Forgive my blunt language but when it all boiled down to it, that was the choice Rahabs family had to make: To save her familys lives, Rahab managed to convince her whole family two things: The story of Rahab is about one womans courage and her actions that saved her entire family. And that boy would one day marry a widow woman by the name of Ruth (Ruth 4:5, 10). Rahabs livelihood was her security. The biblical story, however, suggests a . 1. Presidents Adams and Jefferson also died the same year, 1826; President. Do not give the enemy ground that Jesus has already taken. Dianas additional published works include a collection of poetry,Wings of the Wind; an Easter cantata, Glorious, written with a musical collaborator and available on Sheet Music Plus; and contributions to various magazines and compilations. As if that wasnt enough risk, Rahab goes on to help the spies create a strategic and safe return home (Joshua 2:14-16). An invading army was gathered out there the forces of Israel. Random Fun Facts About Geography 63. For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were on the other side of the Jordan, Sihon, and Og, whom you utterly destroyed. How could it be that Rahab the prostitute became Rahab, the mother of Boaz? I agree! We take those $ and give them to developing our Children's Programs. Father / Grandfather / Minister / Missionary / Deacon / Elder / Author / If you wish to use an image or any other content of this blog, contact connect@lotanner.com prior to using the content. Rahab was also a Canaanite, who were the hated enemies of Israel. 2. Still, the people of Jericho may have felt as if they could hide behind their walls. For this reason, they were often adorned with symbols of strength and protection, such as lions or dragons. Diana makes her home in San Diego, California. Lobsters have bladders on either side of their heads, so they communicate by urinating at each other. Theres so much to learn <3, So happy to hear that Judy! And until that point in this space where I am not-still-a . 1. Rahab is the first Gentile recorded in the Bible as having converted to Judaism. Dont get me wrong, Hannahs my girlthe woman I want to grow up to be when I grow up and over the years, Ive come to a have reluctant compassion for Penninah. }); While the Canaanites were living large and partying doing all the things that were grotesquely sinful things (child sacrifices, idol worship, pagan rituals including but not limited to sexual perversions), God was faithfully bringing the Israelites to the land He had promised them in Genesis 15:18-21 and Exodus 33:1-3. Three presidents, all Founding FathersJohn Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Monroedied on July 4. Rahab is best known for her role in helping the Israelites conquer Jericho. Even without her intervention, their victory was sure. But as hard as it is to have faith, there are rewards in the end. It would have been hard to step into the identity God had planned for her. In return, the spies make a vow to protect Rahab and her family when they invade Jericho. But what happened to Rahab after that? What was the Purpose of the Scarlet Cord? She refused to nurture those things anymore. Rahab was from Jericho. Moses Aaron Facts for 9-13 Year Olds Categories: Men in the Old Testament, Moses Aaron is Moses' older brother. In this story, Rahab is a prostitute who lives in Jericho. 3. For forty years, the children of Israel had wandered in the wilderness without a home. How people view us is our stumbling block and often times we associate Gods view of us with mans view of us. When they entered the wilderness they crossed the water of the Red Sea, That Miracle made the inhabitants of the land melt. Milton has also served as chancellor and president of seminaries and is the author of more than thirty books. First, Rahab demonstrates the power of faith. Thats what I intend to deliver and hope youll find in this Rahab Bible study. For many of us, our identity is our hang-up. We dont know how many persons were in her family, but I loved the fact that she thought of them all. Her name was Rahab. When your city has fortified walls, its easy to believe your city is impenetrable. Manage Settings We talk about making an impact finding purpose in life but seldom do we realize that to walk out the things God created us for often requires us to abandon things of this world that define us; the culture we live in, our own ideologies, status, and even how we view ourselves. Rahab in the Bible was a perceptive woman, intelligent and well-informed. Despite her profession, she was a woman of faith who put her trust in the God of Israel. Diana Wallis Taylor is an award-winning author of more than a dozen books, including such novels asHadassah, Queen Esther of Persia; Lydia, Woman of Philippi;Mary, Chosen of God;Ruth, Mother of Kings;Mary Magdalene; andJourney to the Well. God redefines those with a past. Salmon was from the tribe of Judah, which means that Rahab was also technically from that tribe (although she was not born into it). How could Almighty God, the holy God of heaven, use such a sinner like me?" The peoples beloved leader Moses is dead and Joshua, the new guy in charge, sends two spies to check out the land of Jericho which is the first barrier between the Israelites and Canaan. The Bible tells us that she married an Israelite named Salmon (father of Boaz) and had a son named Boaz. Grit, abandon, and surrender. Answer: True According to Matthew 1:5-6, Rahab was the great-great grandmother of David. "Paul to TimothyII Timothy 2: 2KJV, We have Ads Running on this site. 6. Rahab; the girl lost in an incredibly sinful life. His parents are Amram and Jochebed from the tribe of Levi. Have We Turned Our Favorite Preachers and Teachers into Idols? Generous Rahab was generous, as she gave her own Jericho house to the spies. 32 Interesting Facts About Noah and His Ark Andrew Krehbiel 6 MinutesRead Updated: December 12, 2022 Noah had three sons: Shem, Ham and Japheth. See, despite her many shortcomings, there is one character of Rahabs that Christian women in a sin-driven world should be eager to adopt: Abandon. Rahabs faith in God engrafted her into a new family. But why is she included in the lineage of Jesus? Image credits: Adam Brill. pic.twitter.com/X8oPHr9usC. Rahab wasnt content where she was. We assume that if imperfect people can think so lowly of us how much worse we must be seen in the eyes of a perfect God. 1. But there came a pivotal moment in the story of the Ancient Near East when Gods judgment came to the unrepentant peoples of Canaan, fulfilling the covenant made with the Patriarchs. Sexual sin was deeply embedded in Canaanite culture. But more importantly, it may give you a desire to revisit the book of Exodus to experience once again the wondrous things God did on behalf of His people. In addition to founding three churches, and the call as Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Chattanooga, Dr. Milton is a retired Army Chaplain (Colonel). Christian Truth. And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the Lord your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath (Joshua 2:9-11 ESV). But the lesson I want us to focus on today is the story of Rahab. Rahab was a prostitute who lived in the city of Jericho during the time when the Israelites were preparing to enter the Promised Land. It will give you a glimpse into what life may have been like for those first families who had to settle the land while the army remained on the move. to move into the home of a harlot in order to save their lives. Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. The three wealthiest families in the world have more assets than the combined wealth of the forty-eight poorest nations. I am so glad that God gives us a second chance no matter our past. Rahabs story is a picture of Gods plan of redemption, available to anyone who will believe Him by faith. But what do you know about God? Interesting Facts About Ruth Barnes' Bible Charts MEANING: Hebrew meaning "Friendship" or "Association" AUTHOR: Authorship uncertain TIME WRITTEN: Uncertain POSITION IN THE BIBLE: 8th Book in the Bible 8th Book in the Old Testament 3rd of 12 books of History (Joshua - Esther) 58 Books to follow it. Why is knowing about the various characters in the Bible important. If we only look at our past, who we were in our own strength; well fail to see the lesson, hope, and beauty of a life touched by God. Rahab was a prostitute. So while Rahab is not as well-known as some other biblical figures, she played a key role in Gods plan for redemption. He wasnt made by human hands. Im glad your faith was boosted by Rahabs story. Get your copy of Rahab Woman of Jericho. You might think from her profession that she was destined to die an early death, to fade away into shame, the disgraced woman. God knew it because God knew her better than she knew herself. Whats amazing about Rahab is that she didnt let those thoughts keep her from running to God. What made her do that? As Christians, we will need to spend time in His Word doing the work to learn more about His character. One of Rahabs greatest characteristic was that she didnt only think about saving herself, she also had compassion for her fathers household and made plans to save them as well. In Psalm 87:4 Rahab is the name of a city; also in Psalm 89:10 and in Isaiah 51:9. That's who she is. Fact: Dead skin cells are a main ingredient in household dust Here's an interesting science fact for you: According to researchers at Imperial College London, humans shed around 200 million skin. In addition to the hurdle of finding actual work, Rahab would also have to find enough favor with the Israelite people to be allowed to dwell among them. Keep moving forward! The Bible calls her Rahab the prostitute because that was her defining trait. Because she was ready for the real deal. This is the perspective taken in Rahab Woman of Jericho and its an interesting one. Instead of occupying the land as instructed, they convinced themselves they werent strong enough and opted to return to Egypt; the land God had just freed them from (see Numbers chapters 13 & 14). Some biblical scholars maintain that Rahab, the woman who hid Joshuas two spies, was a harlot or prostitute. Your nails also follow the same principle - hair and nails are both made of the protein keratin. Faith accepts that God rewards those who pursue a relationship with Him. In fact, you lose some every day without noticing. All your hair is dead. He promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky, and He kept that promise by sending them into the Promised Land. Where is Rahab mentioned in the New Testament? It had been 40 years since Joshua, Israels leader at the time, had set eyes on the promised land. And it highlights the one thing that is life with God. Gods with you every step of the way! Rahab was the great-great-grandmother of David, according to the Christian Bible. Radames fabricates a story to tell Jerichos king, but Hammurabi doesnt believe itand he has his eye on the beautiful Rahab. The program, called Acoustic Kitty, involved surgically implanting batteries, microphones and antennae inside cats. And so if you ask me, "How could God possibly use me? The story of Rahab is one about faith. Many people are familiar with the story of Rahab, the prostitute who helped the Israelites escape from Jericho. She was willing to abandon it if it meant getting to know the One true God. Thank you Thank you Thank you. She didnt just let go of some things, she abandoned EVERYTHING. Rahab was a prostitute woman. His name means "lofty, exalted, or high mountain." There is no information about his birth or his early years. Rahab saves spies Joshua 2:1-7 The Hebrew tribes led by Joshua came into Canaanite territory, where they encountered city states who did not welcome the intruders. I hope you enjoyed this summary of the story of Rahab in the Bible! Cookie Monster's real name is Sid. Now, theres no pretty way to translate it, the word refers to a whore or someone who has behaved wantonly and committed adultery. I am not yet a mother myself. Humans share 50% of their DNA with bananas. There it is: "Your God is God." Unmistakably a statement of fact and a confession of faith. Santi painted altarpieces and portraits for the court of Urbino, but died when Raphael was 11 years old. We dont typically hear the word abandon being used to describe positive behavior. If this is so apparent to a common prostitute, why do the people of Jericho resist this all . click here and print our free Rahab Bible study pdf worksheet! The Wall of Jericho was a fortified wall that surrounded the ancient city of Jericho. Shop the viral Uniqlo bag going viral on TikTok. The American flag. Your email address will not be published. By her own admission, the Hebrew God had already given the Israelites the city of Jericho. 1. For a full list of well-rounded questions, I invite you to click here and print our free Rahab Bible study pdf worksheet! This story teaches us many things about God, His character, and His faithfulness. An old man named Noah, who was really old. window.fd('form', { She began as a Canaanite Prostitute and from her faith and a scarlet rope saved her entire family. But there's more to the story of Rahab so much more. This was in keeping with Gods command that all the inhabitants of Canaan be destroyed. Actually, lets rephrase that. A lot of times when we read Rahabs story we get hung up on the lie, but are there more lessons that can be gleaned from the story of Rahab? So here we are 40 years later, a new generation of Israelites (with the exception of Joshua and Caleb, none of the Israelites from the previous generation were still alive). Now before they lay down, she came up to them on the roof and said to the men: I know that the Lord has given you the land, that the terror of you has fallen on us, and that all the inhabitants of the land are fainthearted because of you. Canaan was well known for sexual perversions and abuses. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. window.fd('form', { She was a Canaanite woman who lived in the city of Jericho during the time of the Israelite conquest. 1. In a lot of modern churches, they claim theres not really a need for it. Scholars disagree on whether it was 1406 BC or 1250 BC. Rahab recognized the God of Israel. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. And the words He speaks never return void. Rahab is best known for her role in helping the Israelite spies escape from Jericho, and for her subsequent marriage to Salmon, an Israelite. How many persons would have thought to hide someone under stalks of flax (Joshua 2:6)? 46 Interesting Facts You Probably don't Know. In Rahabs case, it wasnt any of those things. Rahab is mentioned in the New Testament in the Letter of James and in the book of Hebrews. When they came back and gave an evil report, He was just in His punishment of them. Lobsters communicate with their bladders. 23. In this short verse, we learn a few things about God and faith: Rahab displayed all of those characteristics. 66. formId: '63050dacce6421efe0a560d4', This raises an important question: did Rahab have any family in Jericho?