Rahab
PeopleWhat is the meaning of Rahab in the Bible?
Rahab was a woman of Jericho who aided two Israelite spies sent by Joshua in escaping the city, and she later married Salmon, becoming an ancestor of King David.
SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding Rahab's narrative provides insight into the biblical theme of divine inclusion, demonstrating how individuals outside the Israelite lineage could be integrated into the covenant community through acts of loyalty and faith.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Genealogy & Community Insight: When reading, notice how the lineage and actions of Rahab reveal God's preservation of family clans and community records across generations.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention Rahab in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Rahab clarify?
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"Rahab." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/rahab/