10 Interesting Facts About Rahab in the Bible

Rahab is one of the most remarkable women in the Bible. Her story is powerful—full of courage, faith, and redemption. She is remembered not just for her past, but for how God used her to fulfill His plans for Israel.

1. Rahab Lived in Jericho

Rahab lived in the ancient city of Jericho, which was the first city the Israelites encountered after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land.

“So they went, and came into the house of a harlot named Rahab, and lodged there.” — Joshua 2:1

She owned a house on the city wall, giving her a perfect view of everything coming in and out of the city.

2. Rahab Was a Prostitute

The Bible is clear about Rahab’s profession. She is first introduced as “Rahab the harlot.”

While her past might seem shameful, it shows how God can use anyone—no matter their background—for His glory.

“By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe…” — Hebrews 11:31

3. Rahab Hid the Israelite Spies

When Joshua sent two spies to scout Jericho, Rahab protected them from the king’s soldiers by hiding them on her roof under stalks of flax.

“Then the woman took the two men and hid them.” — Joshua 2:4

Her actions were risky. If she had been caught, she could have been executed for treason.

4. She Lied to Save Them

Rahab lied to the king’s messengers, saying the spies had already left the city. Her lie wasn’t praised, but her faith was.

“Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from.” — Joshua 2:4

This shows her bravery and desire to protect God’s people.

5. Rahab Believed in the God of Israel

Even before seeing a miracle, Rahab had faith in the God of Israel. She had heard about how He parted the Red Sea and gave Israel victory.

“For the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.” — Joshua 2:11

Her faith set her apart from the rest of Jericho.

6. She Asked for Protection

Rahab boldly asked the spies to spare her and her family when Jericho would be attacked.

“Now therefore, I beg you, swear to me by the Lord… that you will also show kindness to my father’s house.” — Joshua 2:12

This moment showed her concern not only for herself but for those she loved.

7. The Scarlet Cord Saved Her

The spies told Rahab to tie a scarlet cord in her window. This red rope marked her home so she and her family would be spared during the battle.

“Bind this line of scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down.” — Joshua 2:18

This cord is often seen as a symbol of salvation, much like the blood of the Passover lamb.

8. Rahab and Her Family Were Spared

When Jericho’s walls fell, Rahab’s house remained standing. She and her family were saved, just as the spies had promised.

“But Joshua spared Rahab the harlot, her father’s household, and all that she had.” — Joshua 6:25

She was taken to live among the Israelites from that day forward.

9. She Became Part of Israel

Rahab didn’t return to her old life. She joined the people of Israel and became one of them, leaving her past behind.

“…she dwells in Israel to this day…” — Joshua 6:25

This showed that God’s people were not chosen by bloodline, but by faith.

10. Rahab Is in the Lineage of Jesus

Rahab married Salmon, a descendant of Judah, and became the great-great-grandmother of King David. That places her in the family tree of Jesus Christ.

“Salmon begot Boaz by Rahab, Boaz begot Obed by Ruth…” — Matthew 1:5

Her name is forever honored in the genealogy of the Savior.

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