Joshua 2:18

Joshua 2:18 Meaning and Explanation

Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’’s household, home unto thee.

King James Version (KJV)

Read this verse in context with translation switching:

Read Full Chapter →

The spies instruct Rahab to tie a scarlet cord in her window and gather her whole family inside the house.

What Does Joshua 2:18 Mean?

The men give Rahab the sign she asked for. She is to bind a line of scarlet thread in the same window through which she lowered them, and to gather her father, mother, brothers, and all her father's household into her house. The scarlet cord will mark the home to be spared.

The scarlet thread in the window, marking out a household for deliverance, recalls the blood placed on the doorposts when Israel was spared in Egypt, and points forward to the saving blood of Christ that shelters all who are gathered to Him. Safety is found inside, under the appointed sign, with loved ones gathered in. So the Lord marks His own and calls them home.

Joshua 2:18 in the Original Language

shaniy (שָׁנִי), 'scarlet' -- the deep crimson dye that colored the cord marking Rahab's window.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joshua 2:18

What does Joshua 2:18 mean?

The spies instruct Rahab to tie a scarlet cord in her window and gather her whole family inside the house.

Keep Studying Joshua 2

Read the whole chapter in KJV, ASV, or WEB, or go deeper with the chapter study guide and key themes.