Rahab Hides the Spies Under the Flax

Joshua 2:1-24

The Big Idea

Rahab acted courageously to protect others. This story also reminds us to follow God’s instructions carefully and trust his power.

The Bible Story

Rahab Helps the Spies

Joshua 2:2-7 tells how the king of Jericho learned that Israelite men had entered the city and sent men to Rahab, ordering her to bring them out. Rahab had hidden the two spies under flax stalks on her roof. She told the king’s men that the men had come but had already left, then directed them toward the Jordan road. The pursuers searched as far as the fords, and the city gate was shut after they left. The passage presents the search gently for children. It does not explain Rahab’s motives, so we should not add them. This account is part of Joshua’s story of the spies sent from Shittim to Jericho. Later in the chapter, Rahab recognizes the LORD’s power and helps the spies escape, but this scene focuses on their hiding place and her careful protection.

Themes

A promise of protection Courage in protecting others Faith expressed through action Following agreed instructions Recognition of the LORD’s power

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

Rahab stands carefully on the roof of her house while the two unnamed Israelite spies remain safely hidden beneath bundles of flax stalks. In the distance, the king’s men move toward the city gate, creating gentle, non-frightening visual context for Rahab’s brave protection.

Talk together

Talk about it

How did Rahab protect the spies?
What can courage look like when someone needs help?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page with Joshua 2:2-7 for older children. Explain the search and hiding in calm language, and do not present Rahab’s deception as ordinary behavior to imitate. Invite children to notice her courage, careful planning, and protection of others. Stop before the later battle or fall of Jericho.

Source note